Edward W. Szalapski, MD

If you are looking for a good Orthopedic Doctor in the Minneapolis – St. Paul Area – I should say upper Midwest Area – Search no more! I have known Dr. Szalapski for several years. He did a total knee replacement in 2004 and that knee has pulled me all over on my travels and adventures. And two new hips in 2015 & 2016. He has given me a better quality of life! Dr. Szalapski has done hundreds of surgeries on hips and knees with a stunning record. He is a brilliant orthopedic doctor who cares about you and your health and well-being. He is down to earth, honest, and will take his time when talking to you about your concerns and give you honest answers. After you meet him you will understand that he is not only a doctor- but a miracle worker. Kind, honest, dedicated and genuinely cares about his patients.

As a registered nurse, I worked with Dr. Szalapski, for fifteen years. After observing him do numerous surgeries, he was my top choice to perform my own surgery. After 5 weeks walking half a mile at a time, there has been very little discomfort. Overall a positive experience. Thank you for all your good care!

Just like Humpty Dumpty I took a great fall and was taken to Fairview Ridges Hospital where one of the Kings Men put me back together again. It has been 3 months and I am walking with a cane and regaining my busy life. Dr. Szalapski did his magic and I am working, driving and have near perfect health again. Thank you for your skill and dedication.

I have been a patient of Dr. Szalapski at Twin Cities Orthopedics since 2006 and have always received excellent care. I would never consider going anywhere but TCO. The entire staff starting with the pleasant greeting from the receptionist to the personal attention I receive from Jessica, Dr. Szalapski’s assistant, the X-ray technicians, physical therapists, and Dr. Szalapski himself exceed all of my expectations. I have recommended TCO to my family, co-workers and friends because I know TCO will provide excellent care and quality service. Sharon B.

Want to thank Dr. Szalapski for his great care of my rotator cuff issue in my shoulder. He’s a magician with a cortisone shot, bringing me great relief the few times I’ve been to see him.  Highly recommend this caring and professional Dr.

When I first saw Dr. Szalapski I was mostly impressed that he wasn’t pushy about doing surgery. He let it totally be my decision on if and when I did the surgery. Once I made the decision to have it done, he sat down and fully explained everything about the procedure and recovery. They didn’t make light that there would be times I was going to be uncomfortable at first. Everyone on his team has made this as painless as can be. I am truly glad I went to him to have this done. So I can say if you follow his instructions and do the work, you will be greatly impressed with how your new knee recovers and feels. Should I ever need to have my other knee done, I will know I will go back to Dr. Szalapski.

I met Dr. Szalapski and had my first hip replaced at 42 years old – scared to death! It went perfectly and no limp. I had my knee replaced at around 50 years old and my other hip done a year later. Last year, I had my shoulder replaced and was told I may only get 70% of my range of motion back – I got 100%. I would never think of anybody but Dr. Szalapski to perform my surgeries when I have had the best care and absolutely no complications!! His support team and Jessica are the best also! Bonus he has a good sense of humor.

A friend of mine has seen Dr. Szalapski for over 20 years and gave him a glowing recommendation! I was struggling with my knees and walking stairs. The minute Dr. Szalapski walked in to see me, he was professional and down to earth! I immediately knew that I was going to like him. He watched me walk and looked at my knees and said right away I needed replacements. We did the left knee three years ago and the right knee this past summer of 2018. I am very happy with the outcome and can do the stairs with no pain. When I wanted more pain meds I was given the maximum allowed and was okay with that because I did not want to become addicted to a medication. I watched a child of mine struggle with addiction and knew that was not something I wanted or needed in my life! When Dr. Szalapski stops the pain meds he is following guidelines. I would recommend him to anyone that needs replacements!

I chose to have my knee replacement surgery with Dr. Szalapski based on the recommendation from my daughter. Dr. Szalapski and his staff walked me through the procedure and explained what to expect for surgery and recovery. 3 months post-surgery and everything is going well and I am feeling better. I would highly recommend Dr. Szalapski and the staff at New Prague surgery department.

On February 13th, 2018 I had my first knee replacement. Then on December 7th, 2018 I had my second knee replacement by Dr. Szalapski. He is very professional at his job, answered any questions I had and he had a good sense of humor. I would highly recommend him to anybody who needs a knee replacement! Thanks Doc for the good work!!
Ron G.

With both of my knees at the end of their original warranty period, we were looking for recommendations for an experienced Orthopedic surgeon who would do a good job with knee replacements and who was able to accommodate some special timing needs. Two higher-ups in the Fairview organization recommended Dr. Szalapski. He did my first knee on August 20, and the second on November 19. While the second knee is still brand new, I can say I am very pleased with how the first replacement turned out. Dr. Szalapski is a good guy, down to earth, with a large personality. He’s approachable and obviously knows his stuff. He’s an easy guy to recommend.

This was the second hip that Dr. Szalapski has replaced for me and I could not of asked for better care! He is a very concerned physician and Kathryn Wilson PA is super! I would recommend him to anybody!

Dr. Szalapski – fabulous job, well done. I’m so pleased with everything about the process. All my questions were answered and I feel great. Thanks to his great job.

I have never been more impressed with a doctor and their organization, as I have been with Dr. Szalapski, his staff and the PT staff in Eden Prairie. From the moment I first met him, I was given cause to have complete confidence in him, his Care Coordinator Jessica and his PA Kathryn. They were always timely, friendly, caring and professional, and always gave me all the time needed to answer questions and offer advice. The PT staff with Nathaniel, and then strength training with Ian and Ryan in Eden Prairie was fantastic. The location was very complete, had all the necessary equipment and all the staff there knew exactly what I needed and wanted to achieve. I have had 13 surgeries in my life on almost every part of my body, and have never experienced the complete satisfaction from every part of this wonderful organization.

If you are looking for the best possible experience in having a knee replacement, go no further than Dr. Szalapski. He is an excellent surgeon with great bedside manners. His staff, Katheryn Wilson, PA-C and Jessica are of the same caliber.  Thank you, Mike S.

I was surprised six years ago when I started having trouble with my left knee. By the end, it would swell to twice it’s normal size, and I was extremely limited in my activities and in a great deal of pain. A friend had two knee replacements had recommended Dr. Szalapski. I had my first knee replacement in October 2012. The outcome was excellent. This spring, my right knee went downhill extremely quickly, as with my first knee. It would become very swollen, walking and standing was very painful, and it kept me up at night. I had my second knee replaced in July of this year. I had another successful recovery, and the outcome again was excellent. This time, I think having already been through the experience, my recovery has been easier and quicker. With both surgeries, physical therapy is required. Both times I was very religious about both going to PT and following through with the exercises. This is part of the whole patient experience which has made my recovery outcome excellent. PT has changed some of the exercises and routines, which has helped strengthen my knee and leg. I have people who tell me not to take pain pills after surgery. I have both times, feeling it is necessary to do the required exercises to regain total use of my knee. Part of the care, is to make sure use of the pain medication is limited in a time frame while recovering. It was not hard for me either time to discontinue use, this time faster than the first time.  Circumstances this time required me to be much more active during recovery. While hard, it turned out to be a gift. The whole staff who support Dr. Szalapski are all outstanding, all being supportive, encouraging and great. It is hard work to recover total movement. I sincerely feel the whole team gave me all the tools to recover. I could not have done it without them!

I picked Dr. Szalapski out of a phone book 18 years ago at 43 years old needing a hip replacement. He was professional and gave me all the information I didn’t want to hear! I lucked out and got the best results I could have hoped for! He has since replaced my other hip, a knee and most recently my shoulder. I love him and tell everyone I know to go to him! He doesn’t always tell you what you want to hear but honestly not his fault. I thank God I randomly picked him I’ve gotten the best results on all my surgeries and can honestly say I have no residual pain. His staff is awesome and I could not be happier and no I’m not related ha!

This was the 4th joint replacement that I had done by Dr. Szalapski. He has been treating me since 2010 and I have always been treated very well. His skills have helped me regain my mobility. Thank you for all your concern and great care.

My testimonial is that I was in so much pain when I went in to see Dr. Szalapski. He informed me that I needed a hip replacement, which I tried very hard to avoid. In the end, I had no choice but to have my hip replaced. I am so glad Dr. Szalapski was the one do perform my hip replacement but now my horrible pain is gone and I am already looking forward to a healthier lifestyle. The care that I received from the Dr. Szalapski and his staff was very outstanding. A job well done.

Dr. Szalapski has replaced both of my knees and one tendon repair for my shoulder. He has also replaced both hips and a knee for my wife. Her other knee is set for replacement next month! The results of each of these surgeries have been quite rewarding, with NO complications. I would highly recommend considering Dr. Szalapski for any surgeries that involve a joint repair or replacement. A no nonsense Dr. that will give you the facts without the pressure to proceed.

My daughter is writing this for me, I’m 96 and fell and broke my hip. Dr Szalapski did a wonderful job. I’m back home now in my condo with no pain and healing really fast. The only bad part now is I have to use a cane now and then. I would send anyone to him.

I am a prime example of Dr. Szalapski’s excellent surgical skills, treatment and how well he replaced my right hip. He has also successfully surgically repaired my trigger index finger on my right hand. In addition, he is keeping my knee out of trouble because of arthritis. I am very happy with Dr. Szalapski and I give him and his staff the highest rating one can receive in his field of medicine.

Started having knee problems back in the 1990 spots related. First my ACL went out and then had a shim put in my knee later on, but after time the knee was shot and wasn’t able to do spots any more go up and down steps, ride a bike and do karate. It was time to have the knee fix and after having the knee surgery around 2005 wasn’t sure how I would do. I was given some pain killers for a short time and did all my therapy like the doctor told me to do. Was off of pain killers in about 3 to 5 weeks and took Advil instead if needed. Doing my exercise every day,2 to 3 times a day and doing what the doctor said. Yes it took effort on my part, but is was worth every ounce of sweet, after the doctor took me off of all restriction .. I go for a 6 mile bike ride or longer and not afraid to walk 6 miles , I have also returned to doing karate tournaments ,swimming and camping . Did I mention that both lags have acritical knees and it was the best think I could done. I have them for over 5 years and going strong. I feel that Dr. Edward Szalapski did a great job doing the knee replacement and his team that work in getting back to a normal life, I give him 10 stars. Remember no pain no gain.
David Printup

Dr. Szalapski has done numerous surgeries on me. I have had both my shoulders done by him. I had a knee replacement done by him, and I tore my left quad muscle off, which Dr.Szalapski reattached.  I would not have any other orthopedic surgeon do this for me.  He was wonderful. I love the fact  Dr. Szalapski is honest and very forthright with his advice on what I need to do to heal.  His assistant Joe has also been a huge part in all of my surgeries and in my healing. I cannot say enough about all of Dr. Szalapski’s staff.  Thank you to all of you.

I am the Health Care Agent for my stepmother, Dorothy, who fell in her assisted living apartment fracturing her right hip.  Despite being in her 80s, this was her first fracture ever.  Dr. Szalapski provided her trauma care and performed surgery to do a partial hip replacement.  Dr. Szalapski made Dorothy and our whole family feel comfortable and confident of the outcomes.  A hip fracture in an elderly health-compromised individual can be serious, leading to other serious consequences.  Dorothy made a full recovery, exclaiming that her hip felt better than ever!  In addition to his clearly capable management of the medical and surgical elements, Dr. Szalapski’s demeanor and patient presence is excellent.  Thanks, Doc, for your support.

After years of pain in my knees and difficulty walking very far, I had had enough and decided it was time to do something about my knees. A friend recommended Dr. Szalapski. I had both knees replaced (April and October) in 2013. I wish I had done it a lot earlier. I can walk for miles, and I do on our hiking and camping trips. I can kneel for a few minutes and I owe it all to the wonderful skills of Dr. Szalapski and Joe. Dr. Szalapski encouraged me to continue with exercises after I finished the therapy program. So very glad my friend recommended him after her knee surgery.

I had Dr. Szalapski perform a long overdue knee replacement approximately one year ago. It was a complete success, eliminating my pain, and through dedicated therapy and exercise, I have regained full mobility. He truly has changed my life.

It’s not easy to say, “Yes, give me a new knee.”  However, after months of knee pain after a fall and a subsequent diagnosis of bone on bone and arthritis, I was ready.  Dr. Szalapski addressed my concerns and questions with patience and kindness and I was put at ease.  Thanks to him for my new knee and thanks to his staff, Jessica and Joe, for their timely responses to my calls and questions. I can’t say enough about the excellent after care of the nursing staff at Fairview Southdale Hospital. The entire experience with TCO was more than I could have hoped for.

I have had five surgeries with Dr. Szalapski, all successful. He is a skilled physician as well as a caring person. His nurse and P.A. helped get me through some traumatic experiences related to a bad infection that attacked my knee. Dr. Szalapski was extremely thorough and cautious and after taking my knee out because of the infection, would not replace it until he was 100% sure that the infection was gone. As a result I now enjoy walking around the lake.

I have seen Dr. Szalapski for chronic pain in my shoulder, as well as ongoing monitoring of foot deformities caused by Charcot Foot syndrome. The shoulder was resolved with shot of cortisone (which I barely felt). Being severely diabetic, I believe I can say with honesty that without his recommendations and care, I would have lost one or both of my feet by now. Under Dr. Szalapski’s guidance, I have also seen several other providers in that same office for one surgery on a finger and two on a foot. One of the foot injuries could have been crippling, but healed wonderfully. I am a nurse by trade, so my standards are pretty exacting. I heartily recommend the entire staff there, and especially Dr. Szalapski.

Maureen S., from Orono (pictured on left), has had numerous surgeries with Edward Szalapski, MD (pictured on right) of Twin Cities Orthopedics, including two total knee replacements, rotator cuff surgery, and wrist surgery. “I feel completely confident and blessed with Dr. Szalapski,” she said. Maureen explains that thanks to the compassionate staff members and thorough follow-up, her time with Twin Cities Orthopedics has “been without a doubt, the best medical experience ever.”