What are the opening hours?

Monday 8:30am - 5pm Tuesday 8:30am - 5pm Wednesday 8:30am - 5pm Thursday 8:30am - 5pm Friday 8:30am - 5pm

Christopher James, MD

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United States
Palm Harbor, FL
Christopher James, MD

Minimally invasive approach used for knee replacements and both muscle-sparing direct anterior and mini posterior hip surgery.

Board-certified orthopedic surgeon in Palm Harbor, FL performing computer-assisted hip and knee replacement, adult reconstruction surgery, and general orthopedics. Extensive training in all aspects of operative and nonoperative orthopedics including hip and knee replacements, knee arthroscopy, periprosthetic fracture surgery, and knee and joint injections. Focus on adult hip and knee reconstructive surgery, both primary and revision, using the most advanced robotic surgical techniques to balance bones and knee ligaments, allowing for enhanced recovery and improved function.

01/26/2026

Hip pain can affect far more than the joint itself. Discomfort may influence walking speed, posture, balance, sitting tolerance, sleep position, and the ability to perform everyday tasks. Common contributors include joint degeneration, inflammation, muscle imbalance, changes in joint mechanics, or altered movement patterns that develop gradually over time.

When hip pain begins to interfere with daily routines, limit mobility, or persist despite rest and activity modification, an orthopedic evaluation can help clarify the underlying contributors. Dr. James focuses on understanding how hip pain impacts functional movement and overall quality of life, using clinical assessment and imaging to guide informed conversations about next steps.

01/23/2026

“Love Dr. James. His bedside manner is exceptional and immediately puts you at ease. My first hip replacement surgery was very successful, and I felt confident and well cared for throughout the entire process.”

Lynn T.

01/21/2026

Joint degeneration often develops slowly and can begin with subtle symptoms that are easy to overlook or attribute to normal aging. Early signs may include stiffness after periods of rest, mild or intermittent swelling, reduced range of motion, clicking or discomfort during movement, or pain that appears during or after activity.

As these changes progress, they may begin to alter how the joint moves and bears weight, leading to increased discomfort and functional limitations. Dr. James evaluates joint health through a detailed review of symptoms, physical examination, and imaging to better understand how early degeneration may be affecting movement patterns and long term joint health. Identifying these changes early can help patients better understand what is happening within the joint over time.

🔗 www.palmharborortho.com

01/16/2026

“Extremely fortunate to have Dr. James as my orthopedic surgeon. His professionalism, expertise, and genuine care made me feel confident and well supported throughout my experience.”
Thomas H.

01/14/2026

Joint replacement may be considered when ongoing hip or knee pain progresses to the point where it significantly interferes with daily activities such as walking, standing, climbing stairs, getting in and out of chairs, or resting comfortably. This level of discomfort is often associated with advanced joint degeneration, where cartilage loss and structural changes limit smooth joint movement and reduce overall function.

An orthopedic evaluation looks beyond pain alone. Dr. James carefully considers how symptoms affect mobility, balance, sleep quality, independence, and participation in everyday activities. Imaging and physical assessment are used to better understand joint structure, movement patterns, and the extent of degeneration. The goal of this evaluation process is to help patients clearly understand their condition and how it is impacting their quality of life, while focusing on safety, function, and long term outcomes.

🔗 www.palmharborortho.com

01/09/2026

Bursitis & tendinitis affect the soft tissues around the hip & knee that help reduce friction & support smooth movement. When these tissues become irritated or inflamed due to repetitive stress, overuse, or changes in biomechanics, patients may experience pain, tenderness, or discomfort around the joint.

Because symptoms can vary, Dr. James evaluates factors such as movement patterns & joint alignment to better understand what may be contributing to ongoing discomfort & to support healthier joint function over time.
🔗 www.palmharborortho.com

01/07/2026

Did you know?

Your hip labrum is a ring of cartilage that helps stabilize the hip joint & support smooth movement. When it becomes damaged, it can lead to deep hip pain, clicking or catching sensations, stiffness, & limited range of motion.

Hip labral tears can be difficult to identify because their symptoms often overlap with other hip conditions. That is why a thorough evaluation matters. Dr. James assesses hip labral concerns by carefully reviewing symptoms, joint mechanics, & imaging to better understand what is contributing to discomfort & restricted movement.
🔗 www.palmharborortho.com

01/06/2026

Persistent pain, stiffness, reduced mobility, or discomfort that interferes with daily activities may indicate that an orthopedic evaluation is needed. These symptoms can gradually affect how you move, rest, work, and participate in everyday life, even when they begin subtly.

During an orthopedic evaluation, Dr. James reviews symptoms, movement patterns, and imaging to better understand how joint concerns are affecting function and long term mobility. This process is designed to help patients gain clarity about their condition and feel informed and supported as they consider their care options.

🔗 www.palmharborortho.com

01/03/2026

Knee osteoarthritis occurs when the protective cartilage within the knee joint begins to break down. As this cushioning wears away, patients may notice pain with walking, stiffness after sitting, swelling, or grinding sensations during movement.

Because knee arthritis can impact balance and overall mobility, early evaluation plays an important role. Dr. James focuses on identifying how joint changes affect function and developing care plans that support long term joint health and independence.

01/01/2026

Happy New Year from Dr. James & Orthopedic Specialists. As we begin a new year, our commitment remains the same to help you move better, feel stronger, and return to the activities that matter most. Wishing you a healthy year ahead.

12/27/2025

5 Healthy Habits You Can Implement Before 2026

Stay hydrated
Proper hydration supports joint lubrication, muscle function, and overall recovery. Even mild dehydration can contribute to stiffness and fatigue.

Move your body
Consistent movement helps maintain joint mobility, muscle strength, and balance. Low impact activity supports long term orthopedic health.

Prioritize sleep
Quality sleep allows the body to repair tissues, reduce inflammation, and restore energy levels essential for physical health.

Practice mindful eating
Balanced nutrition fuels muscles, supports bone health, and helps manage inflammation that can affect joints and movement.

Take a digital detox
Reducing screen time encourages better posture, less neck and back strain, and improved sleep patterns.

Dr. James encourages focusing on simple, sustainable habits that support long term orthopedic health as we approach 2026.

12/25/2025

Merry Christmas from Dr. James & the Orthopedic Specialists team. We are grateful for the trust our patients place in us & honored to support your health, movement, and quality of life throughout the year. Wishing you a joyful Christmas filled with peace and meaningful moments.

Address

37026 US Highway 19
Palm Harbor, FL
34684

Opening Hours

Monday	8:30am - 5pm
Tuesday	8:30am - 5pm
Wednesday	8:30am - 5pm
Thursday	8:30am - 5pm
Friday	8:30am - 5pm

Telephone

+17274962391

Website

https://www.palmharborortho.com/provider/chris-james-md

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