Treating Friends and Neighbors
Penn Highlands Orthopedics and Sports Medicine located in the State College Medical Office Building brings leading-edge care and treatment to Centre County by a team of experts who knows the orthopedic needs of the patients in the region.
Jason Clark, DO, FAAOS, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon who specializes in general orthopedics, sports medicine and shoulder and elbow surgery recently discussed the types of injuries and conditions he treats while expressing his enthusiasm to be providing care to his neighbors in the region.
What types of conditions and injuries will you treat at Penn Highlands State College?
Dr. Clark:
I'm fellowship trained in shoulder and elbow surgery, which includes simple and complex shoulder procedures such as shoulder arthroscopy for a torn rotator cuff, shoulder replacements for those with shoulder arthritis, and elbow procedures such as distal biceps tendon repairs for the unfortunate few that may experience a torn biceps tendon.
In addition, I perform many general orthopedic procedures such as same-day discharge direct anterior hip replacements and same day discharge total knee replacements. I'm certified in robotic assisted total knee and hip replacements as well. I perform knee arthroscopies for patients who may have a torn meniscus, and perform arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstructions. I also treat fractures of the upper and lower extremities, carpal tunnel syndrome, trigger finger, and perform carpometacarpal (CMC) joint arthroplasties.
Do you treat adults and children?
Dr. Clark
I treat anyone over the age of 12. I will see children between the ages of 2 and 12 for routine fractures.
Do you perform surgery at Penn Highlands State College?
Dr. Clark
Yes. I do surgical procedures at Penn Highlands State College.
What attracted you to orthopedics?
Dr. Clark:
I had my ACLs reconstructed in 1997 and 1999 in Centre County. These experiences inspired me to pursue a career in orthopedics. For me to be back here now, as a practicing orthopedic surgeon, it feels like I'm home.
Why did you choose to practice at Penn Highlands Healthcare?
Dr. Clark:
I grew up in Bedford County, and later attended Juniata College in Huntingdon. I have spent a lot of time in Centre County and in State College through the years. I love this area and the people who live here. I consider myself incredibly fortunate to be working with and for the people of State College and the surrounding areas. Penn Highlands has provided an incredible opportunity to truly focus on the patient experience. I've sought out a place to practice medicine that emphasizes taking a stressful experience such as having a surgery or an injury for a patient, and trying to focus on a welcome and positive environment for the patient and the patient's family.
What do you enjoy most about orthopedics?
Dr. Clark:
Orthopedic surgery provides an opportunity to re-introduce quality of life to people and restore their faith in life, rather quickly sometimes. Orthopedics is an extraordinary privilege that I will never take for granted.
