Central Maine Healthcare

Where You are the Center

Orthopedics

Foot and Ankle Pain

We ask a lot of our feet over the years — from walking to running to hiking and more. In fact, the average person takes about 6,000 steps a day. To put that in perspective, that’s nearly 110 million steps in 50 years.

It makes sense, then, that with all this wear and tear that our feet and ankles often develop problems like shooting pains, stiffness or swelling. Left untreated, the nagging pain can become unbearable and keep you from what you need and love to do.

Relief Starts Here

Whether you’re struggling with recent or chronic pain, the board-certified orthopedists and podiatrists at the Orthopedic Institute of Central Maine (OICM) can help. We’ll work closely with you to create a personalized treatment plan, with options ranging from custom orthotics and exercise programs to the latest, minimally invasive surgical options.

Conditions We Treat

Just some of our specialties include:

  • Bone or heel spurs
  • Bunions or corns
  • Bursitis
  • Clubfoot
  • Diabetic foot
  • Hammertoe
  • Fractures
  • Gout
  • Morton’s neuroma
  • Osteoarthritis, inflammatory arthritis or traumatic arthritis
  • Plantar fasciitis
  • Sprained and strained ankle
  • Stress fractures
  • Tendonitis
  • Tendon ruptures

Helping You Put the Spring Back in Your Step

We always begin by listening, to understand exactly what you’re dealing with and how it’s impacting your life. Then together, we’ll find the best solution for your pain, which may include conservative treatment such as modifying footwear, following a specific exercise program and medication.

However, if none of these changes manage or resolve your pain, surgery may be the most effective treatment option for you. At OICM, foot and ankle surgery are generally outpatient day surgeries, which means no overnight stay and quick recovery, so you can get back to your life as quickly as possible.

We also specialize in treatments for foot problems caused by diabetes, a common issue for our central and western Maine communities. That includes surgical (or sharp) debridement, the gold standard treatment for severe diabetic foot infections. The procedure cleans out any dead or infected tissue, helping stop the growth of bacteria and making it easier for the body to develop healthy new tissue.

Orthopedic Excellence, Close to Home

The Orthopedic Institute of Central Maine offers locations near where you live and work – so you never had to travel far to find the world-class care you need:

  • Central Maine Medical Center – Lewiston, Maine
  • Bridgton Hospital – Bridgton, Maine
  • Rumford Hospital – Rumford, Maine

Arm and Hand Pain

One of the most common causes of hand and wrist pain is arthritis (including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis), resulting in inflammation, stiffness and swelling in the joints. Usually arthritis comes with the wear-and-tear of age, though a sudden and traumatic injury such as a broken wrist or finger, torn ligament or sprain can also cause the condition later. Left untreated, the nagging pain can become excruciating, making it difficult to use your hands and lead a productive, active life.

Relief Starts Here

Whether you’re struggling with recent or chronic pain, the board-certified orthopedic experts at the Orthopedic Institute of Central Maine (OICM) can help. We’ll work closely with you to create a personalized treatment plan, whether that’s physical therapy, a minimally invasive treatment or the latest and most effective surgical options.

Conditions We Treat

Some of our specialties include:

  • Carpal tunnel syndrome
  • Congenital conditions
  • Dislocations
  • Fingertip and nail bed injuries
  • Fractures
  • Ganglions and masses
  • Sprains and strains
  • Repetitive stress injuries
  • Tennis elbow
  • Osteoarthritis
  • Post-traumatic arthritis
  • Tendon/nerve injuries

Skilled Hands to Help Heal Yours

We always begin by listening, to understand exactly what you’re dealing with and how it’s impacting your life. Then together, we’ll find the best solution for your pain, which may include:

Minor injuries: This includes things like strains and sprains. These can often be taken care of by applying ice and wrapping the hand or wrist with an elastic bandage.

Nonsurgical treatments: Appropriate pain medication, anti-inflammatory medications, cortisone injections, and physical therapy are all nonsurgical treatment options for many conditions — tennis elbow, for example. But, when conservative measures fail to alleviate pain and restore mobility, surgery may be necessary.

Surgery: Our surgeons specialize in a full range of hand, wrist, and elbow surgeries, from hand reconstruction to microscopic repair of nerve injuries. Our goal is to help relieve pain, restore function and helping you get back to what you need and love to do.

Orthopedic Excellence, Close to Home

The Orthopedic Institute of Central Maine offers locations near where you live and work – so you never had to travel far to find the world-class care you need:

  • Central Maine Medical Center – Lewiston, Maine
  • Bridgton Hospital – Bridgton, Maine
  • Rumford Hospital – Rumford, Maine

Back, Neck and Spine

Neck and back pain can happen at home, at work or to just about anyone who sits too long or moves without proper body mechanics. In fact, experts estimate that nearly 80 percent of U.S. men and women will be affected by spine-related pain at some point in their lives.

Neck pain is frequently caused from the facet joints and from the discs, which are deep in the spine. The pain you’re experiencing may originate from these areas and affect the surrounding nerves.

Back pain is a more complicated and personal experience due to the overlap of nerves in the structures of the spine. This makes it difficult for the brain to distinguish between injury in one structure versus another, which is why scans and X-rays are often used to determine the root cause of the pain.

Relief Starts Here

Whether you’re struggling with recent or chronic pain, the board-certified orthopedic experts at the Orthopedic Institute of Central Maine (OICM) can help. We’ll work closely with you to create a personalized treatment plan, whether that’s physical therapy, a minimally invasive treatment or the latest, minimally invasive surgical options.

Conditions We Treat

Just some of our specialties include:

  • Degenerative disc disease
  • Disc compression
  • Herniated discs
  • Lower back pain
  • Neck pain
  • Sacroiliac (SI) joint pain
  • Sciatica
  • Spinal stenosis

Helping Put Your Back Pain Behind You

We always begin by listening, to understand exactly what you’re dealing with and how it’s impacting your life. Then together, we’ll find the best solution for your pain, which may include:

Nonsurgical treatments: Whenever possible, your OICM spine surgeon will recommend non-invasive options, which can bring complete relief. One common treatment is therapy services and an exercise program, often supplemented with medication. We also offer quick in-office procedures such as injections or nerve blocks.

Surgical options: When non-invasive treatments are not enough to manage or solve your neck and back pain, you may need surgery to eliminate pain and restore mobility. Our skilled surgeons perform many types of complex procedures with excellent outcomes, including laminectomy, foraminotomy, disc replacement, kyphoplasty, and discectomy. We use the latest, minimally invasive techniques, which often offer significantly less pain and fewer complications, while minimizing damage to healthy tissue and helping promote a fast recovery.

Orthopedic Excellence, Close to Home

The Orthopedic Institute of Central Maine offers locations near where you live and work – so you never had to travel far to find the world-class care you need:

  • Central Maine Medical Center – Lewiston, Maine
  • Bridgton Hospital – Bridgton, Maine
  • Rumford Hospital – Rumford, Maine

Why Choose Us: Orthopedics

Bone, joint or muscle pain can really hurt – especially when they keep you from what you love. We’ve helped thousands of people throughout central and western Maine find life-changing relief, and can do the same for you through:

Award-Winning Care

OICM has earned several elite distinctions, including the Gold Seal of Approval® from the Joint Commission for total hip, knee and shoulder replacement, as well as hip fracture care. That means you don’t need to travel to Portland or Boston for orthopedic excellence – you’ll find the highest, national standards of safety and care right here in your hometown.

Innovative Approach to Your Care

A key component to our success is the multidisciplinary care approach we’ve developed. We call it Core Connect Care℠, and it is the only program of its kind in Maine. On your initial visit, you’ll be paired with your own dedicated team, which may include your surgeon, specially trained nurses, physical therapists and other specialists, depending on your unique needs. These friendly, familiar faces will be with you at every step, creating a close connection and circle of care. Our aim is to make your experience as productive and stress-free as possible.

Outstanding Patient Results

Find extra peace of mind knowing that we consistently score higher than the national average of orthopedic facilities and hospitals. Our patients go home sooner, recover faster and report a higher level of comfort and satisfaction than most patients in other hospitals. We also have a 0% complication rate for many orthopedic procedures. Learn more about our exceptional patient outcomes.

Dedicated Joint Replacement Program

If joint replacement is right for you, rest assured you’re in highly skilled hands. Our board-certified, fellowship-trained surgeons are skilled in some the latest, most minimally invasive techniques available, like anterior hip replacement, to help you get moving again sooner.

Every step of your journey is highly coordinated, starting with pre-operative testing and an educational class so you know just what to expect before, during and after your procedure. From there, we’ll guide you seamlessly through surgery, physical therapy and life with your new joint.

Comprehensive Fracture Care

Our recognition by The Joint Commission® as one of the nation’s top-tier orthopedic programs means we’ve also achieved excellence in bone fracture care. After an accident or fall, we can quickly and effective repair even the most complex fractures, right on-site. Working closely with our rehabilitation team, we’re committed to helping restore full function and mobility, and get you back to enjoying life.

Orthopedic Excellence, Close to Home

Best of all, it’s all offered at locations near where you live and work – so you never have to travel far to find the world-class care you need:

  • Central Maine Medical Center – Lewiston, Maine
  • Bridgton Hospital – Bridgton, Maine
  • Rumford Hospital – Rumford, Maine

Sports Medicine


Our specialists – including orthopedic providers and surgeons, physical therapists, athletic trainers and more – work closely together and with you to create a personal plan based on your needs and goals. So, whether you’re a weekend warrior or full-time pro, we’ll help you get back in action.

Helping You Reclaim Your Game

Caring for an injured athlete is more than just applying a brace. Our sports medicine providers use hands-on, proven techniques that target the cause of your pain to restore strength, function and flexibility.

Just some of our specialties include:

  • Acute sports injuries: from common sprains, strains and dislocations to more serious conditions like anterior cruciate ligament and rotator cuff tears, and complex fractures
  • Overuse sports injuries: treatment for tennis elbow, stress fractures, shin splints and tendonitis
  • Injury prevention: education and training to improve body mechanics and balance and reduce the risk of getting hurt

Our program also provides team provider coverage for Bates College, and we proudly serve as consultants for high school athletics throughout central and western Maine.

Minimally Invasive Techniques to Help Speed Healing

Whenever possible, we opt for non-invasive treatment, including therapy services regimens. But when surgery is your best solution, we offer the latest options designed with athletes in mind. That includes arthroscopic reconstructive surgery of the shoulder, elbow, knee, foot and ankle, which usually offer less pain and faster recovery versus traditional open surgery.

Shoulder Replacement

We know how hard it can be living with a severely painful shoulder. Even simple tasks like lifting groceries or getting dressed can be difficult, let alone doing the activities you love.

At Central Maine Healthcare, we may have just the solution for you. Our board-certified orthopedic surgeons specialize in shoulder replacement surgery, a common procedure in which injured or diseased joints are replaced with state-of-the-art artificial parts. We offer both traditional shoulder replacement as well as reverse shoulder, including innovative solutions which completely customize surgery to your unique anatomy.

Your surgeon can help determine if shoulder replacement is right for you. If so, you can count on the highest standards of care close to home, with a program that has earned the Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval®, among other national distinctions.

You can also see every step of the process by watching our shoulder replacement videos.

Getting Your Shoulder, and Life, Back in Motion

Depending on your needs, your surgeon at Central Maine may first recommend nonsurgical options like medication or physical therapy. But, if you’re dealing with bone-on-bone arthritis or a traumatic injury, and other treatments haven’t brought relief, you may be a good candidate for total shoulder replacement.

The procedure involves replacing arthritic joint surfaces with a highly polished metal ball attached to a stem and a plastic socket. Our surgeons specialize in the latest, least invasive techniques, which can help restore virtually the exact anatomy of your shoulder. That means a more natural feeling, mobile and longer-lasting solution.

For completely torn rotator cuffs and severe, related arthritis, we also offer reverse shoulder replacement. In this procedure, the socket and metal ball are switched, meaning their natural position is reversed. The metal ball is fixed to the socket and the plastic cup is fixed to the upper arm bone (humerus). This allows you to use the deltoid muscle, instead of rotator cuff, to move and lift your arm. Reverse shoulder is typically recommended for patients with:

  • A completely torn rotator cuff that cannot be repaired with treatments like arthroscopy
  • Cuff tear arthropathy, a complex type of shoulder arthritis
  • A previous shoulder replacement that was unsuccessful
  • Severe shoulder pain and difficulty lifting your arm away from your side or over your head
  • A complex fracture of the shoulder joint

Support for Every Step

The thought of shoulder replacement may seem overwhelming, but we try as hard as possible to make it a seamless, easy process for you.

It starts with our pre-operative class, where you’ll learn what to expect through the entire process. From there, we’ll guide you seamlessly through surgery and rehabilitation, which often begins immediately after surgery in one of our dedicated orthopedic units. A physical therapist will work one-on-one with you to strengthen the shoulder joint and enhance range of motion, so you can get back faster to what you need and love to do.

Orthopedic Excellence, Close to Home

The Orthopedic Institute of Central Maine offers locations near where you live and work – so you never had to travel far to find the world-class care you need:

  • Central Maine Medical Center – Lewiston, Maine
  • Bridgton Hospital – Bridgton, Maine
  • Rumford Hospital – Rumford, Maine

Orthopedic Surgery

We know the thought of surgery can make anyone feel anxious. But with the experts at the Orthopedic Institute of Central Maine (OICM), you’ll find everything you need for success.

All our orthopedic surgeons are board-certified, performing a full range of procedures to treat knee, hip, shoulder, hand, wrist, elbow, foot and ankle pain.

Whenever possible, we use some of the most minimally invasive options available for joint replacement, spine surgery and more – each offering less pain, more mobility and a faster recovery.

From pre-operative education through personalized rehabilitation, we’ll here to support you at every step. And we’re part of your community, with orthopedic care centers conveniently located near where you live and work. So, you can stay focused on healing. 

Orthopedic Excellence, Close to Home

The Orthopedic Institute of Central Maine offers locations near where you live and work – so you never had to travel far to find the world-class care you need:

  • Central Maine Medical Center – Lewiston, Maine
  • Bridgton Hospital – Bridgton, Maine
  • Rumford Hospital – Rumford, Maine

Non-Surgical Options

Dealing with painful bones or joints can be frustrating, but it doesn’t have to interfere with your life. And it doesn’t have to mean surgery.

At the Orthopedic Institute of Central Maine (OICM), we offer a full range of non-invasive options that can help effectively manage or even cure your pain. These treatments are usually quick, easy, virtually painless and involve little to no downtime.

One of our board-certified orthopedic specialists will work with you to find the best treatment for your specific condition. If needed, we also perform a full range of orthopedic procedures, including our joint replacement, using the most minimally invasive techniques available for less pain and faster recovery.

Therapy Services

At OICM, one of our licensed physical therapists can design a regimen that reduces your pain while also strengthening the key muscles that affect your joint. Your therapist can work with you short or long-term to make sure you’re doing specific exercises that increase your mobility and decrease your pain. Common therapy methods include bodyweight and aquatic exercises.

Your physical therapist may also apply ice and heat to your painful areas. Or, they make work alongside your treatment team to suggest ultrasound therapy or other procedures that can increase blood flow to the skin, helping to reduce pain.

Injections

Injections of substances like may be used to lubricate the joint, which reduces pain and improves mobility. These injections are administered in-office, making it one of the quickest and most convenient options.

Medication

Medication, including oral pain relievers and topical creams with the numbing agent lidocaine or bupivacaine, may help control your joint pain. Your provider will work with you to ensure you find the right prescriptions for your individual case to limit side effects and avoid drug interactions if you are taking other medications.

Cortisone Shots

Your provider might also recommend a steroid injection to reduce the inflammation (or swelling) of your joint.

The steroids are injected at the site of inflammation, and usually work to relieve pain within a few days and last several weeks.

 Orthopedic Excellence, Close to Home

Best of all, it’s all offered at locations near where you live and work – so you never have to travel far to find the world-class care you need:

  • Central Maine Medical Center – Lewiston, Maine
  • Bridgton Hospital – Bridgton, Maine
  • Rumford Hospital – Rumford, Maine

Education and Support: Orthopedic Care

Joint, bone and muscle pain can really hurt – especially when they keep you from what you need and love to do.

At the Orthopedic Institute of Central Maine, we can help you get back on track. Start with these helpful resources below.

Need in-person support? Come see one of our board-certified orthopedic experts. We begin by listening, to understand exactly what you’re dealing with and how it’s impacting you. Then we’ll work together to create a personalized treatment plan focused on relieving pain, restoring function and helping you return to your active life.

Classes and Events

At OICM, our orthopedic care doesn’t end in the office. We offer free, ongoing events to help our central and western Maine communities enjoy active and pain-free lifestyles. Whether you’re preparing for joint replacement surgery, seeking pain management strategies or need fitness and nutritional guidance, our experts have the answers. Explore upcoming classes and events near you.

Pre-Surgery Education

Have an upcoming joint replacement surgery? Scheduled patients should be sure to join the Orthopedic Institute of Central Maine (OICM) for a highly informative class and prep for your procedure with confidence.

During this highly informative session, you will:

  • Learn more about joints and how they work
  • View a presentation on joint replacement surgery
  • Go over details about preparing for surgery
  • Review what to know about discharge
  • Be given an overview of home care and rehabilitation
  • Get pain management strategies

You’ll also have the chance to ask any and all questions and connect with other patients on a similar journey.

Classes are held at:
Central Maine Healthcare Orthopedics Office
690 Minot Avenue
Auburn, Maine 04210

  • Education sessions are held every other Monday with the exception of holidays.
  • Knee Education: 8:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
  • Hip Education: 10:30 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.
  • Spine Education: 12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
  • Shoulder Education: 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. 

Central Maine Healthcare Orthopedics
690 Minot Avenue
Auburn, Maine

To save your spot at an upcoming class, call (207) 783-1328. We look forward to seeing you!

Prehab

At the Orthopedic Institute of Central Maine (OICM), we’re committed to making your recovery from joint replacement as smooth and swift as possible. That process actually starts before your procedure, with pre-rehabilitation, or prehab.

This special program is designed to strengthen and prepare the muscles ahead of surgery, so that you go into surgery with optimal health and have the best outcome possible. Below, we’ve answered the most frequent questions revolving around this innovative practice.

What is Prehab?

Prehab is an exercise therapy program started at least six weeks or longer before surgery. It is conducted with a dedicated physical therapist, who guides you through bodyweight and flexibility movements to strengthen and stabilize your body. It’s a new concept — but has already proven to lead to a faster recovery.

How Can Prehab Get You Back on Your Feet Faster?

The rewards of prehab show in as little as 24 hours after surgery. Because of the increased level of fitness achieved before surgery, patients can often walk quicker, have shorter hospital stays and may be discharged and sent to outpatient rehab, rather than to a rehab facility for inpatient therapy.

Where Can I Attend Prehab Classes?

We have three locations convenient to you:

Central Maine Medical Center – Lewiston, Maine
Bridgton Hospital – Bridgton, Maine
Rumford Hospital – Rumford, Maine

A to Z Search for Services

Central Maine Healthcare covers all of your physical and mental health needs.
Click on a service below to learn more about what we offer and where to find care near you.

  • Addiction Services

    We are committed to understanding and serving people who are living with addiction. We provide compassionate trauma-informed care based on best practi… Learn More >

  • Bariatric Surgery

    Central Maine Bariatric Surgery understands how important weight loss is for patients. We have been established since 2007 and have a team ready to su… Learn More >

  • Breast Health

    When it comes to caring for your breast health, Central Maine Healthcare offers a spectrum of services to help screen, diagnose, and treat. From the m… Learn More >

  • Cancer care

    The Cancer Care Center at Central Maine Medical Center is an integrated, multi-disciplinary program that combines a full spectrum of services and med… Learn More >

  • Cardiovascular services

    Central Maine Heart and Vascular Institute (CMHVI) brings skilled medical specialists and innovative treatments to the people of central Maine and bey… Learn More >

  • Diabetes and Endocrinology

    Diabetes and other endocrine-system conditions are complex, and when you’ve been diagnosed with one, it’s hard to know what to do next. Learn More >

  • Ear, Nose and Throat

    At Central Maine Healthcare, our board-certified ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialists understand how this connected system works and can identify th… Learn More >

  • Emergency Care

    If you’re experiencing a life-threatening emergency, dial 9-1-1 immediately or go to your nearest ER. Emergencies happen when you least expect them,… Learn More >

  • Gastroenterology

    Your digestive system involves so many parts of the body – your throat, stomach, intestines, colon, rectum, pancreas, gallbladder and liver. So, whe… Learn More >

  • Imaging Services

    Welcome to Central Maine Medical Center Imaging Services. We take pride in providing our community with technologically advanced, up-to-date imaging s… Learn More >

  • Integrative Medicine

    At Central Maine Healthcare, we’re focused on the whole you — mind, body and spirit. That’s why we specialize in integrative medicine, with a va… Learn More >

  • Laboratory Services

    Central Maine Healthcare offers lab services at convenient locations for tests as part of your routine appointment or for screening of specific condit… Learn More >

  • Long-Term Care

    At Central Maine Healthcare, our long-term care feels exactly like home. We believe in taking complete care of you or your loved one’s physical, med… Learn More >

  • Neurology

    Central Maine Healthcare's neurologists and other doctors are specialists in epilepsy, movement disorders and other neurological disorders. Learn More >

  • Nutrition Services

    Clinical Nutrition A Registered Dietitian (RD) is a “food and nutrition expert” who has completed a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree ... <a class… Learn More >

  • Orthopedic care

    The Orthopedic Institute of Central Maine (OICM) serves the people of Central, Western and Midcoast Maine. OICM works collaboratively with our outpati… Learn More >

  • Palliative Care

    Central Maine Healthcare's palliative care is specialized medical care for people with serious illness. This type of care is focused on providing reli… Learn More >

  • Pediatrics

    CMH’s kid-friendly team members and ambience — as well as our kid-sized examination tables and tools — instantly put children at ease. And we fi… Learn More >

  • Pharmacy

    The CMMC Pharmacy is open to the public and accepts all major insurance plans. As part of your healthcare team, let our pharmacy assist you with manag… Learn More >

  • Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery

    Plastic and reconstructive surgery is a personal choice, and a personal journey. At Central Maine Healthcare, our double-board certified physician a… Learn More >

  • Primary Care

    At Central Maine Healthcare, we make primary care easy and accessible to community members like you. We believe in providing compassionate, quality ca… Learn More >

  • Pulmonary

    At Central Maine Healthcare we provide diagnosis and treatment to our patients as well as education to both the patient and family. Learn More >

  • Rehabilitation and Therapy

    Whether you have suffered an injury at work or on the field, are recovering from surgery or just want to better manage pain, the Orthopedic Institute… Learn More >

  • Rheumatology

    Rheumatology is the study and treatment of rheumatic disorders, a wide range of conditions affecting the joints and connective tissue and typically ca… Learn More >

  • Sleep Medicine

    At Central Maine Healthcare, we know what a peaceful night’s sleep means for your health and life. Our board-certified sleep medicine specialist and… Learn More >

  • Surgical services

    Central Maine Heart and Vascular Institute (CMHVI) brings skilled medical specialists and innovative treatments to the people of central Maine and bey… Learn More >

  • Telehealth Services

    Central Maine Healthcare now offers telehealth services, bringing you the care you need when you’re unable to leave home. Online and telephone visit… Learn More >

  • Trauma Center

    We offer three ERs right in the communities we serve – each staffed 24/7 with board-certified emergency providers and specialty trained team members… Learn More >

  • Urology

    Using the latest and most advanced screening technology allows our medical team to scan with amazing detail. This allows us to more accurately detect… Learn More >

  • Women’s and children’s health

    Women of all ages have unique health and medical needs, which is why Central Maine Healthcare has spent decades building services, treatment, educatio… Learn More >

  • Wound Care

    Central Maine Medical Center’s Comprehensive Wound Center is a centralized location for all aspects of wound care. Our team of specialists provides… Learn More >