Joshua Nelson, MD, PharmD

Dr. Joshua Nelson is an experienced orthopedic surgeon with Amberwell Health, providing surgical clinic and procedure services at Amberwell Atchison and surgical clinic services at Amberwell Lansing Clinic.

Dr. Nelson specializes in orthopedic surgery and sports medicine, with particular expertise in conditions of the knee, shoulder, elbow, and ankle. He is a well-known expert in sports medicine, having helped start several sports medicine programs throughout Kansas as well as served as medical staff for many Kansas City professional, collegiate, and high school sports teams. He has an extensive background in academic medicine and has trained numerous residents and medical students throughout his career. Many of those physicians are now practicing orthopedic surgeons and sports medicine specialists in the Kansas City metropolitan area. He is a published author in multiple peer-reviewed journals.

On choosing Amberwell…

“I chose Amberwell because I recognize the need and growth potential of the Orthopedic Care department and the growing need within the community,” said Dr. Nelson. “Having known Dr. Duncan throughout our careers, I was thankful to be working with him again in serving the Amberwell community. There’s a unique character of hard-working individuals in the community Amberwell serves that I relate to and appreciate.”

On becoming an orthopedic surgeon…

“Becoming an orthopedic surgeon was a decision that unfolded over time,” recalls Dr. Nelson. “Initially, I went to pharmacy school and earned my PharmD, but I have always been interested in surgery. I like the complexity, the precision required, and the direct impact it has on improving patients’ lives. Along this journey, I was fortunate enough to have mentors who recognized my interest and provided motivation and enthusiasm. Their encouragement provided a push to pursue this path. It was their guidance and my innate draw to the field of surgery that influenced my decision to pursue orthopedics.”

On his patients’ experience…

“People choose their surgeon for various reasons,” reflects Dr. Nelson. “It’s not just about the operation itself but the entire experience from start to finish. From the moment a patient checks in, to every interaction they have with me or my team, it all contributes to their decision. They either hear about us, or read about the hospital, the clinic, the OR experience. It all matters. I place a high value on outcomes and strive for excellence at every stage. Keeping up to date with the latest surgical techniques and ensuring my staff are thorough with all the details, including pre-operative planning, procedural protocols, and patient communication are all part of our commitment to care. Patients recognize this commitment. They feel it when you genuinely care about them, not just as patients, but as individuals. We all need certain individuals who are willing to stay up at night and work hard on solutions for our problems if required.”

About Dr. Nelson

Dr. Nelson is a native of Nebraska and has lived in Kansas since his residency began at KUMC in 2004. He and his wife of 25 years have three children. His favorite hobbies include spending time outdoors—backpacking, hunting, and fishing.