Be pain-free with the best orthopaedic specialists in Adelaide!
I’ve been jogging almost my entire life, so you could probably imagine the horror I felt when my joints started locking. Turns out, ageing and bad habits (like cheap footwear) did me in.
So off I went to an orthopaedic specialist with a stellar record in easing muscle, joint, and bone problems. That was a life-changing move!
It was also not a cheap one, which is why I had to research for weeks to avoid overpaying for B-tier services.
You don’t have to deal with that. The review below spotlights only Adelaide’s best and the reasons why.
Dr Luke Mooney
Address: Eastwood Private Hospital, Orthopaedics 360 Level 2/204 Greenhill Rd
Contact Details: +61 8 7077 0157
Operating Hours: Mon to Fri: 9 am to 4 pm
Specialities: Joint replacement, arthroscopic joint preservation surgery
| Google review score | 4.9/5 |
| Total reviews | 4.5/5 |
| Experience | 4.3/5 |
| Qualifications | 4.3/5 |
| Accessibility | 4.4/5 |
| Communication Skills | 4.6/5 |
| Pricing(A higher score means a better value, not higher fees) | 4.5/5 |
Dr Luke Mooney’s strong record in knee and hip procedures caught our curiosity. He’s approaching a decade of surgical experience, so it’s no shocker.
Post-operation, most patients were able to move pain-free within months. Some even regained mobility they thought was lost for good!
The clinic’s advancements have something to do with that as well. See, it’s kitted with robotic and computer-aided navigation, allowing for more precise mapping of a patient’s anatomy.
A dedicated team also answers the queries of established clients promptly via SMS, email, and phone.
Better yet, they provide post-op videos and pain management planning, with the instructions often issued by qualified physicians and physios (these physiotherapy clinics can help too).
You only have to practice patience. An immediate appointment is tough to secure.
Plus, his place has the earliest closing time on this list. Turning up ahead (or booking a virtual consultation) is smart.
Dr Mooney did a great job
My knee replacement with Dr Mooney went swimmingly … the postop video I received on the night of the op was especially good. Many surgeons explain what happened in theatre before you’ve even recovered from the anaesthetic, but to receive a short video with photos is great. You can review it when you’re fully conscious and even show relatives the gory details. I really appreciated that! 😆 Postop I have progressed really well with excellent movement and little pain. Dr Mooney did a great job, even the physio commented on this. Definitely a 5 star rating … well deserved.
Vaaldir Thrupp, Google Review
An Excellent Surgeon
I am thrilled with my total knee replacement performed by Dr Luke Mooney. My recovery was very successful and quick. I travelled to England 4 months after my operation and at no time during the 4 weeks I was there was I restricted in any way. I have no swelling, very little scaring and excellent movement in my everyday activities. Dr. Mooney is an excellent surgeon, very professional and caring. I have no hesitation in recommending him for knee surgery. 5 ⭐️
Annie Clifford, Google Review
Dr Adrian Bauze
Address: 32 Payneham Rd, Stepney
Contact Details: +61 8 8130 1259
Operating Hours:
- Mon to Thu: 7:30 am to 6 pm
- Fri: 7:30 am to 5 pm
Specialities: Hip/knee replacement, ACL reconstruction, knee arthroscopy
| Google review score | 4.9/5 |
| RateMD score | 5/5 |
| Total reviews | 4.5/5 |
| Score consistency | 5/5 |
| Experience | 4.8/5 |
| Qualifications | 4.7/5 |
| Accessibility | 4.2/5 |
| Communication Skills | 4.5/5 |
| Pricing(A higher score means a better value, not higher fees) | 4.5/5 |
Experience makes Dr Adrian Bauze a solid and safe bet. He has performed over 6,000 procedures since becoming a hip/knee specialist way back in 2004.
Boosting his rep further is the fact that he pioneered the Enhanced Recovery After Surgery plan. It’s a multidisciplinary and evidence-based approach that speeds up recovery through patient education, covering the entire operative journey.
Facility-wise, he operates in Burnside Hospital and Sportsmed, all reputable institutions with modern equipment like robotics. Both are within 15 minutes of the Adelaide CBD.
That doesn’t mean you can just drop by. Bookings are a must, and there’s often a queue.
It’d also be handy if weekend hours are available. Most folks I know can only visit clinics on Saturdays and Sundays.
The upside is, you can settle for a virtual appointment, and the rates make sense when compared to Adelaide or the national average.
Made Me Feel at Ease
I had my hip replacement in July and I cannot thank Dr Bauze enough. From the first consultation I knew that I had made the right decision in choosing him to be my surgeon. The operation went really well and my recovery has been remarkably quick. I would also like to mention that Dr Justin Porter (my Anesthesist) was fantastic and he made me feel at ease. Thanks also goes to Dr Bauze’s team – very thorough and well managed. Thank you again Dr Bauze – I am now pain free and I will not hesitate to contact you again if my other hip needs a replacement in the future.
Deb Bartusevics, Google Review
Clear, Informative, and Reassuring
I had ACL reconstruction surgery performed by Dr. Adrian Bauze, and I couldn’t be more grateful for the care and professionalism he provided throughout the entire process. From the initial consultation to the post-operative follow-ups, he was clear, informative, and reassuring. The surgery went very well, and my recovery has been smooth and much better than I expected. Dr. Bauze made me feel confident and well looked after at every stage. I highly recommend him to anyone needing orthopedic surgery—his expertise and attention to detail truly make a difference.
Gerson Cid, Google Review
Dr Chen Tu
Address: Suite 4, Level 2/120 Angas St
Contact Details: +61 8 8236 4168
Operating Hours:
- Mon to Thu: 9 am to 5 pm
- Fri: 9 am to 4 pm
Specialities: Upper limb/shoulder/carpal tunnel surgeries
| Google review score | 5/5 |
| Total reviews | 4.5/5 |
| Experience | 4/5 |
| Qualifications | 4.6/5 |
| Accessibility | 4.6/5 |
| Communication Skills | 4.5/5 |
| Pricing(A higher score means a better value, not higher fees) | 4.5/5 |
It’s hard to doubt Dr Chen Tu’s capability with a Wrightington Upper Limb Fellowship (UK-based) attached to his name.
There’s also his steady record in shoulder and carpal tunnel surgeries. The success rate is high, and we even met patients who can now lift weights of up to 80 kg or play golf despite suffering dislocations months before!
One thing to consider, though, is Dr Tu’s relatively shorter career. While he’s been a surgeon for Wakefield Orthopaedic Clinic since 2020, most alternatives have longer tenures.
His focus on upper limb surgeries might also be limiting for those with a different problem area.
Fortunately, you won’t be left in the dark. Patients who’ve had sessions with him reported crystal-clear explanations and consistent follow-ups.
His staff is no different. They organise appointments properly, so delays are uncommon, and patients often find them approachable and kind, like the doctor.
Carefully Explained Each Step
Dr. Chen Tu is truly an exceptional surgeon — highly skilled, talented, and dedicated. From pre-op to post-op, the entire process was seamless and deeply reassuring. His remarkable attention to detail stood out, as he carefully explained each step, putting everything into perspective and easing any nerves along the way. What makes Dr. Tu extraordinary is not only his surgical expertise but also his kindness and compassion, qualities that are rare and invaluable in healthcare. His genuine care for patients shines through in every interaction, making the experience both comforting and inspiring. Well done, Dr. Chen Tu. I cannot recommend him highly enough. 🌟
Taras Misiajlo, Google Review
Understood My Need
After losing my husband two years ago, the thought of going into surgery again for my shoulder injury was daunting. On a recommendation from a friend, I saw Dr. Tu at Victor Harbor. On my first visit, I was completely put at ease with Dr. Tu’s kindness and compassion. He understood my need to continue playing golf for both social and fitness reasons. My surgery for a Reverse Total Shoulder went very well, and the end result was more than I could have hoped for. I would highly recommend Dr. Tu and his friendly staff as their expertise was superb. I am back playing golf and loving it once again.
Janet Lawson, Google Review
Dr Chien-Wen Liew
Address: Orthopaedics 360, Level 2/204 Greenhill Rd
Contact Details: +61 8 7077 0158
Operating Hours: Mon to Fri: 9 am to 5 pm
Specialities: Hip/knee replacement, sports injury
| Google review score | 5/5 |
| RateMD score | 4.4/5 |
| Total reviews | 5/5 |
| Score consistency | 4.9/5 |
| Experience | 4.6/5 |
| Qualifications | 4.6/5 |
| Accessibility | 4.4/5 |
| Communication Skills | 4.3/5 |
| Pricing(A higher score means a better value, not higher fees) | 4.4/5 |
Anybody seeking a hip or knee replacement specialist should give Dr Chien-Wen Liew a shot. Nearly every case he handled turned out well.
The nice part is that he uses muscle-sparing techniques. By avoiding cuts to muscles, his patients experience less pain post-operation and recover faster.
Their hospital stays also remain short. For instance, the ones we called were discharged in 1–2 nights only.
Oh, and follow-ups for existing clients are handled smoothly. Amelia (Dr Liew’s assistant) rarely makes them wait.
However, those not yet in their system might not get the same luxury. Estimates can take a few weeks to come through, and the phone support is said to be “too abrupt and busy.”
It’s also best to come prepared money-wise. You’re looking at a specialist with numerous international fellowships and over 10 years of experience as a surgeon; the fees can get spendy.
Completely Pain-Free
After experiencing hip pain for nearly two years, I consulted Dr. Liew. I cannot speak highly enough of the care I received—Dr. Liew made me feel comfortable, informed, and confident every step of the way. Three months post-surgery, I am walking up and down stairs completely pain-free, gradually regaining my stamina and fitness, and even able to run around with my dogs again. The out-of-pocket expense has been entirely worth it for the quality of care and life-changing results. I have complete confidence in Dr. Liew and the Orthopaedic 360 team and would highly recommend them to anyone seeking expert, compassionate orthopaedic care.
Jackie, Google Review
After three months, I am walking up to 5 km a day
I have had total knee replacements on both knees now. The first, a year ago, had a few complications with a staff infection. Dr. Liew organised a care and support plan involving multiple doctors. Dr. Nelson, as part of this team, arranged a pre-operative care plan ahead of the second knee replacement. No problems this time. After three months, I am walking up to 5 km a day, back at the gym including leg press, leg extensions, and other physiotherapy exercises. Any future orthopaedic surgery requirements, I’ll be contacting Dr. Liew or his associates.
Ian Drummond, Google Review
Dr Yu Chao Lee
Address: 191 Fullarton Rd
Contact Details: +61 8 8267 8241
Operating Hours: Mon to Fri: 9 am to 5 pm
Specialities: Spine surgeries
| Google review score | 5/5 |
| Facebook review score | 5/5 |
| Total reviews | 4.5/5 |
| Score consistency | 5/5 |
| Experience | 4.2/5 |
| Qualifications | 4.5/5 |
| Accessibility | 4.5/5 |
| Communication Skills | 4.6/5 |
| Pricing(A higher score means a better value, not higher fees) | 4.5/5 |
The approachable Dr Yu Chao Lee can straighten out your spine problems using minimally invasive means. As mentioned in our previous review of his service, his expertise covers spinal tumours, lumbar/cervical spine degenerative disease, trauma, and deformities.
If there’s one procedure we’d label as his most consistent, it’s spinal decompression. Many of his patients noticed improvements like total pain relief and being able to exercise again in less than 2 years.
They also brought up the doctor’s efficient communication skills. “He explains the entire process in layman’s terms,” was the consensus.
One little hiccup is tenure. Dr Lee’s career as a surgeon kicked off in 2019, making him the second youngest specialist here.
Locking in your slot at the clinic can take a while, too. Given his demand and the lack of weekend hours, that’s no surprise.
Good thing virtual consultations can be set, and getting to the facility from the city centre only takes 9 minutes by car.
I am now completely pain-free
Dr. Lee carried out a lumbar decompression and removal of a cyst on my back two weeks ago. Certainly a brilliant surgeon—my back and leg pain disappeared immediately. I was able to stop taking any pain relief just five days after the operation. After several years of chronic pain, I am now completely pain-free. Thanks, Dr. Lee, you are the best.
David Hutton, Google Review
Changed My Life
I had surgery with Dr. Lee six weeks ago and haven’t felt this good in years. He clearly explained all possible outcomes and encouraged me to ask questions, which I did. His team is skilled, each member explaining their role before surgery, which was reassuring. Remarkably, Dr. Lee called my family to update them on the surgery and even visited me on the weekend afterward. His care has totally changed my life for the better. I thoroughly recommend him.
Liz, Google Review
