Dr. James Talkington, MD, Orthopedic Surgery

Dr. James Talkington, MD

Orthopedic Surgery in Port St. Joe, FL

(142 reviews)

Dr. James Talkington, MD is an Orthopedic Surgeon practicing at Florida Sports Medicine & Orthopaedics PA in Panama City, FL. He is dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive Orthopedic care for older adults (65+) and active... Read More Below

Accepting New Patients Board Certified
Professional Details

Dr. James Talkington, MD is an Orthopedic Surgeon practicing at Florida Sports Medicine & Orthopaedics PA in Panama City, FL. He is dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive Orthopedic care for older adults (65+) and active seniors. Dr. Talkington is registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). General Orthopedic Surgeons possess specialized expertise in diagnosing and treating a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions common in seniors, such as arthritis, fractures, and spinal issues, working collaboratively with your primary care physician and other specialists to provide comprehensive and personalized care. He is currently welcoming new patients and you can schedule an appointment by calling (850) 215-6008.

Dr. Talkington founded Florida Sportsmedicine and Orthopedics, P.A. in 1989, a testament to his commitment to the community. He earned his medical degree from the University of Mississippi School of Medicine, graduating magna cum laude, and completed a four-year residency in orthopedic surgery at University Hospital in Jacksonville, Florida. Further specializing in sports medicine, he pursued a fellowship at the University of Chicago. Dr. Talkington is Board Certified in Orthopedic Surgery by the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery and maintains hospital privileges at Gulf Coast Medical Center and Northwest Florida Surgery Center. He is an active member of several professional organizations, including the American Medical Association, and brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his practice.

Dr. Talkington takes a personal approach to each patient, utilizing the most advanced techniques available, whether you are an elite athlete or returning to the work place. He is committed to providing exceptional care to older adults (65+) and active seniors, focusing on personalized treatment plans. Dr. James Talkington provides consultations primarily in English.

A cornerstone of effective senior care is a strong patient-provider partnership. Dr. James Talkington is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on holistic strategies to protect health and enhance quality of life.

Dr. Talkington is a dedicated partner in your senior's health journey, offering compassionate and comprehensive orthopedic care. He understands the unique needs of aging patients, collaborating closely with primary care physicians and specialists to develop personalized treatment plans. His expertise in diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal conditions, such as arthritis and fractures, ensures a holistic approach that prioritizes comfort, independence, and overall well-being.

By working together, you, your family, and Dr. James Talkington can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.

Specific Plans Accepted

Blue Cross Blue Shield
    Curative
      WellCare

        Also Accepts These Carriers

        • Blue Cross and Blue Shield
        • Curative EPO
        • Curative PPO
        • Curative PPO Plus
        • Health Net
        • Premera Blue Cross
        • Premera Blue Cross Blue Shield PPO
        • Tricare

        Effective management of health is key to well-being in later life. Dr. James Talkington provides expert, compassionate care for a range of conditions common in older adults, with a focus on managing symptoms and maintaining function. Common areas of focus include:

        • Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) or Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL) Tear: Experiencing pain, swelling, or instability in your knee might indicate a tear of the ACL or PCL ligament. Fortunately, modern medical approaches can often help manage these injuries and allow you to maintain an active lifestyle.
        • Dupuytrens Contracture: Dupuytren's contracture is a condition causing the fingers to bend inward and become difficult to straighten, often affecting older adults, but surgery or nonsurgical options can help restore hand function.
        • Lumbar Spine Fracture: Experiencing a broken bone in your lower back (lumbar spine fracture) can be painful, but with proper care including pain management and possibly surgery, you can regain comfort and function.
        • Osteoarthritis of Hip: Experiencing hip pain and stiffness? It might be osteoarthritis, a condition where the cartilage protecting your hip joint wears down, but don't worry, there are many ways to manage the pain and improve your ability to move freely and comfortably.
        • Ankle Sprains and Strains: An ankle sprain or strain is an injury to the ligaments or tendons around your ankle, often caused by a sudden twist or fall, and can be treated with rest, ice, and elevation to reduce pain and swelling, helping you stay mobile.
        • Knee Tendinitis: Knee tendinitis involves the painful inflammation of the tissues connecting your knee muscles to your bones, impacting your ability to bend and straighten your leg, but thankfully, conservative treatments can often alleviate symptoms and improve your comfort level.
        • Internal Derangement of Knee: If you're experiencing knee pain, stiffness, or instability, it may be due to an internal derangement, meaning a problem inside the knee joint; the good news is that various treatments, from physical therapy to surgery, can help restore your mobility and alleviate pain.
        • Bursitis of Hip: Hip bursitis is an inflammation of the small sacs near your hip joint that can cause significant pain and limit your activity; Fortunately, simple treatments like rest and medication can significantly reduce pain and improve your quality of life.
        • Chondromalacia: Chondromalacia patellae, or cartilage softening under the kneecap, can cause knee pain and stiffness, but physical therapy and lifestyle changes can often ease symptoms and help you stay active.
        • Wrist Sprain or Strain: A wrist sprain or strain is an injury to the ligaments or tendons in your wrist, often causing pain and swelling, which can be managed with rest, ice, and over-the-counter pain relievers to help you maintain your daily activities.
        • Elbow Injuries: Dealing with an elbow injury can be challenging, but appropriate management, which may include pain relief, splinting, and targeted exercises, helps seniors regain strength and mobility, maintaining their independence.
        • Subacromial Bursitis: Dealing with persistent shoulder pain? It could be subacromial bursitis, an irritation of a shoulder sac that can be managed effectively with rest, medication, and targeted exercises to regain your range of motion and independence.

        This list highlights some common health concerns and is for informational purposes. An accurate diagnosis and a personalized care plan can only be developed through a direct consultation with a qualified medical professional based on your specific health history.

        To provide comprehensive and person-centered care, Dr. James Talkington offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and support the health of older adults:

        • Hammer Toe Repair: This procedure addresses the deformity of a hammer toe, easing pressure and preventing further complications like calluses and sores for older adults.
        • Shoulder Dislocation Treatment: As part of a comprehensive care plan, shoulder dislocation treatment aims to improve a senior's range of motion, reduce pain, and enhance their quality of life.
        • Carpal Tunnel Release: Carpal tunnel release surgery helps relieve numbness and tingling in your hand and wrist caused by pressure on a nerve.
        • Knee Replacement Revision: If your previous knee replacement isn't working as well as it should, a revision surgery can help improve its function and longevity, supporting your active lifestyle.
        • Arthroscopic Meniscus Repair: As part of a comprehensive knee care plan, arthroscopic meniscus repair can help address the underlying cause of pain and stiffness, minimizing the need for more extensive surgery.
        • Excision of Humerus: Excision of the humerus, or part of the upper arm bone, may be necessary to remove a tumor, repair a severe fracture, or manage a debilitating infection, improving the senior's overall health and well-being.
        • Fracture Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF): Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) is a surgical procedure that realigns broken bones and uses metal plates, screws, or rods to stabilize them, helping seniors heal from fractures and regain mobility.
        • Wrist Surgery: Wrist surgery can help seniors regain dexterity and independence in daily tasks affected by wrist problems.
        • Arthroscopic Shoulder Surgery: Arthroscopic shoulder surgery offers seniors a precise way to address shoulder problems, potentially avoiding more extensive procedures and improving their quality of life.
        • Arm Surgery: As part of a comprehensive care plan, arm surgery may address fractures, arthritis, or other conditions affecting the arm, helping seniors regain mobility.
        • Meniscus Surgery: Meniscus surgery helps repair or remove damaged cartilage in the knee, easing pain and improving mobility for seniors with knee problems.
        • Elbow Repair: As part of a comprehensive care plan, elbow repair can address limitations in movement and improve a senior's quality of life.

        Service availability can change. To understand which services are appropriate for your specific health needs, please schedule a consultation to develop a personalized care plan.

        All medical services are provided in accordance with the standard scope of practice for Orthopedic Surgeries in Florida.

        Dr. James Talkington is dedicated to partnering with older adults and their families to achieve their unique health objectives. The following examples illustrate how compassionate care can make a tangible difference in a patient's life:

        • After experiencing knee pain and instability, a senior felt renewed confidence in their ability to navigate their home safely, thanks to a comprehensive treatment plan. They were able to resume their favorite hobby of walking the neighborhood again without the debilitating pain.
        • With the guidance of a skilled orthopedic surgeon, a senior was able to regain the ability to easily pick up everyday items, significantly improving their independence and quality of life. The family felt immense relief knowing their loved one could now perform simple tasks without discomfort.
        • After experiencing a painful lumbar spine fracture, a senior felt a significant reduction in pain and regained the ability to comfortably garden, a beloved pastime. The family felt immense relief knowing their loved one was recovering and regaining mobility.

        These scenarios are illustrative examples of positive health outcomes. Individual results vary and depend on many factors specific to each person. He will work with you to define and achieve your personal health goals.

        • Primary Location:
          Practice
          3801 E Highway 98 Ste 100100, Port St. Joe, FL, 32456
          Phone: (850) 229-5752
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        Education History
        • HCA Florida St. Lucie Hospital Port St. Lucie (Residency Hospital)
        Board Certifications
        • American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery (Orthopedic Surgery)
        Awards & Recognitions
        • Magna Cum Laude-University of Mississippi Medical School, 1981
        • Goodpasture Award for Paathology

        Here are answers to some common questions about Orthopedic care with Dr. James Talkington:

        What is an Orthopedic Surgeon?
        Dr. Talkington and his team are orthopedic surgeons, meaning they are medical doctors specializing in the entire musculoskeletal system—bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, and muscles. Their expertise encompasses diagnosis, treatment, and both surgical and non-surgical options to relieve pain and restore function for seniors.
        Does seeing an orthopedic surgeon automatically mean I need surgery?
        Absolutely not. Dr. Talkington's practice focuses on finding the best treatment plan for each individual, often starting with conservative options like physical therapy, injections, or bracing. Surgery is only considered when it's the most beneficial approach to restoring function and quality of life.
        What is a cortisone injection?
        A cortisone injection is a powerful anti-inflammatory medication injected directly into a painful area, like a knee or shoulder joint. It works by reducing swelling and inflammation, often providing temporary pain relief for conditions like arthritis or tendonitis. It is a safe and effective tool to help manage flare-ups.
        What is a rotator cuff tear?
        A rotator cuff tear is a damage to the group of four tendons that stabilize the shoulder. This can happen from an injury or gradual wear and tear, causing pain and weakness. Many tears can be treated with physical therapy and injections, but Dr. Talkington can perform arthroscopic surgery to repair larger tears.
        What is the recovery like after a knee or hip replacement?
        Recovery after a knee or hip replacement is a process, starting with a hospital stay and continuing with extensive physical therapy. Modern techniques often allow patients to walk the same day as surgery. The goal is to regain strength and motion, and most patients experience significant pain relief and return to many daily activities within a few months.
        My ankle feels weak and painful. What are my options?
        Dr. Talkington can evaluate your ankle pain and instability. Treatment often begins with supportive bracing, physical therapy, and injections. If these methods are insufficient, surgical options like ankle fusion or total ankle replacement may be discussed to provide stability and pain relief.
        My back and leg pain is getting worse. What could it be?
        Back and leg pain in seniors can sometimes be due to conditions like a herniated disc or spinal stenosis, where nerves in the lower back are being compressed. Dr. Talkington can perform a thorough evaluation to determine the exact cause and will likely start with non-surgical treatments like physical therapy or epidural steroid injections to relieve pressure and pain.
        What is joint replacement surgery?
        Joint replacement surgery, performed by Dr. Talkington, is a procedure to replace a damaged or arthritic joint with an artificial implant. The goal is to relieve the bone-on-bone pain caused by severe arthritis, and this very successful procedure can dramatically improve mobility, reduce pain, and restore independence for activities like walking and climbing stairs.

        Florida Sports Medicine & Orthopaedics PA
        2428 Jenks Ave
        Panama City FL 32405
        Phone: (850) 215-6008

        Dr. James Talkington, MD is regulated by the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice) in Florida and is licensed by The Florida Board of Medicine.

        National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1578521092

        Registration can typically be verified through The Florida Board of Medicine website or by direct inquiry.

        The information on this profile, provided by infoaging.org, is for general informational purposes and to help you connect with healthcare partners for yourself or a loved one. It does not constitute direct medical advice from the provider named. Orthopedic Surgeries like Dr. James Talkington are skilled in helping seniors and their families navigate their health journey. For urgent or life-threatening emergencies, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department. Always consult with a qualified medical professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your care plan.

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