JUNE 2026

New Treatment Options for Low Back Pain & Knee Arthritis



For many, there comes a time when the treatments that once provided relief for low back and advanced knee arthritis pain no longer seem to work as well. At that point, many patients are faced with the question, "Am I ready for surgery, or are there other options?” In our latest blog post, Orthopedic Surgeon Dr. Brett Smith discusses why the answer is rarely as simple as "yes" or "no" and how Peripheral Nerve Stimulation may fit into a treatment plan.

Click the button to begin reading.

The Difference Between Hip & Back Pain


Lower back and hip pain can be as frustrating as it is confusing, as many patients are surprised to learn that their back pain comes from the hip or vice versa. Because the hip and lower back are closely linked, finding the true source of pain can be challenging. In our first blog this month, Orthopaedic Hip Surgeon, Dr. Matthew Mai, addresses this common issue and discusses the pain location, what worsens it, and its daily impact. Click the button to read the article.

24/7, 365 ACCESS & HOLIDAY CLOSURE

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All North Florida Bone & Joint Specialists offices will be closed on Friday, July 3, in observance of the extended Independence Day holiday. Our offices will reopen on Monday, July 6, for regular business hours.

NFBJS Virtual Access Powered by Hurt!

Even though we may be closed for the holiday, expert orthopaedic advice is available 24/7, 365. From sprains and strains to fractures, cuts, burns, and joint pain, virtual access powered by Hurt! is just a click away. Access is available on the app or desktop. Click below to learn more!

THE BONE & JOINT BRIEF SERIES

Episode 20: Why Your Shoulder Hurts When You Reach Overhead
Episode 21: Hip Pain vs. Back Pain & How to Tell the Difference

2026 BEST OF THE BAY VOTING

Thank you for making us a 2026 Best of the Bay Finalist! To continue supporting us in the awards, please take a moment to vote for us daily through Tuesday, June 30.


Click the button below and scroll to the "Sports Medicine/Orthopedic" category, then select North Florida Bone & Joint Specialists to cast your vote! We appreciate your support.

Nassir Returns from Grenada for Second Surgery


Three years ago, we met a little boy named Nassir through our efforts with Hands of Hope Medical Mission. Last week, we had the privilege of welcoming him back from Grenada for the next step in his journey.


Dr. Steven Kronlage, in partnership with the team at Andrews Institute Surgery Center, performed a follow-up procedure to help improve the function and independence of his right arm and hand as he continues to grow.


Nassir’s courage, resilience and joyful spirit remind us that some of life's greatest victories are measured one step at a time.


To read Nassir’s full story, click the button below.

Dr. Chris O'Grady Returns from Ecuador Mission



Dr. Chris O’Grady returned from his trip to Ecuador with Bayside Medical Missions earlier this month. During his adventure, he and his colleagues successfully treated several dozen patients with traumatic knee injuries.


Other providers who served alongside Dr. O’Grady in this brigade included his PA, Kerrie Begley, as well as Dr. Steve Seeker and a terrific anesthesia team from North Carolina.


Thank you to everyone who helped support this mission trip!

Plantar Fibromatosis Treatment Study Participants Needed


This study is aiming to evaluate different injection treatments to treat plantar fibromatosis. To be included in this study, patients must reside in the state of Florida, be clinically diagnosed with 1 plantar fibroma, and be available to attend 5 in-person visits to the Andrews Institute in Gulf Breeze, FL. Compensation to the participant will be provided. Please contact a clinical research coordinator at 850.610.0423 or 850.679.5542.

MEET OUR EXPERT SPECIALISTS

North Florida Bone & Joint Specialists includes highly trained orthopaedic surgeons with subspecialties covering the upper extremities, shoulder, knee, hip, foot and ankle, and general sports medicine physicians.

SPORTS MEDICINE

As experts in their field, Dr. Josh Hackel, Dr. Chris O'Grady, Dr. Roger Ostrander and Dr. Ryan Riggs provide specialized care for a variety of orthopaedic and sports medicine injuries and conditions. 

HAND & UPPER EXTREMITY

Fellowship-trained surgeons

Dr. Steven Kronlage, Dr. Alex Coleman and Dr. Jim Piorkowski provide adult and pediatric patients orthopaedic care for injuries and conditions of the hand and upper extremities.

TOTAL JOINT & ADULT RECONSTRUCTION

Dr. Brett Smith is a board-certified and fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeon specializing in total joint and adult reconstruction of the knee and the hip.

COMPREHENSIVE HIP

Dr. Matthew Mai is a board-certified orthopaedic surgeon specializing in the treatment of musculoskeletal conditions of the hip, including comprehensive surgical intervention.

FOOT & ANKLE

Fellowship-trained and board-certified orthopaedic surgeon Dr. Erik Nilssen specializes in providing care for all foot and ankle injuries, conditions and disorders.

ORTHOPAEDIC SURGERY

Dr. Chris Bookout treats a wide range of musculoskeletal problems, including sports injuries, arthritis, fractures and overuse injuries with the latest nonoperative and operative techniques.

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