Patient Testimonials

I am so happy I found Dr Bell. He and his office team are so reassuring, considerate and professional. He replaced my left hip in 2020 and now it was time to replace my right hip. I did not have a second thought about seeing Dr Bell again. I have full confidence in him and his office staff.

He and his office are awesome. Very informative and caring throughout and following my knee replacement. Extremely pleased with the results.

LOOK NO FURTHER THAN DR PHILLIP M. BELL for knee and hip replacements! My rating is 10 Gold Stars! Dr Bell replaced both knees and both hips in less than 5 months during 2024. The first knee surgery also required that he remove a 15" stainless steel rod and 3 screws in my right femur. I broke my right femur in 2019 and that surgery resulted in a leg length discrepancy (LLD) of nearly 2 cm. Dr Bell was able to lengthen my right leg by adding about 1 cm to my right hip replacement. This resulted in a more-balanced skeleton and not having to wear lifted shoes any longer.

All four surgeries were completed without any issues. The Baptist South Hospital Staff provided excellent assistance and care during the pre-surgery preparations, the surgeries and recoveries. I was easily walking (with a walker) just hours after each surgery.

Dr Bell communicated perfectly with me and my wife throughout the entire process.

Dr Bell's assistant, Catherine, handled all scheduling with office and hospital appointments with extreme efficiency and professionalism.

My only regret is that I chose to have in-home physical therapy for my first knee surgery. The out-patient option for physical therapy through JOI Rehabilitation is much better. I used the Murabella location (both hips and one knee). Theresa, Genesis, Chris and Jenn really know what they are doing and worked with me to tailor my scheduling and workouts that produced superior results.

Overall, this was the best medical care I have ever received during my 71 years on the planet. From my first consultation with Dr Bell and Catherine, to the Baptist South Hospital Staff, to the JOI Rehab Staff, I experienced nothing but excellence!

I believe that Dr Bell's background in Mechanical Engineering prior to Medical School sets him apart from other Orthopaedic Surgeons. It's obvious that Dr Bell loves what he does!

Last week I walked more than 10 miles and swam 2200 yards without any pain. Life is now good and getting better each day.

Thank you all!

I would give 10 stars if possible. Dr. Bell and his team are FANTASTIC! I was in less pain the day of surgery (after the surgery) than I was leading up to the surgery.

Dr. Bell and Catherine Are Absolutely FANTASTIC!

I suffered for years with a bad hip, repeatedly told by other doctors that it was just "normal aging" or arthritis. But from my very first visit with Dr. Bell, everything changed. Before even reviewing the X-rays, he immediately recognized that I needed a hip replacement. I was shocked—I'm in my mid-40s! But as it turns out, it's more common than I thought.

Dr. Bell’s expertise, confidence, and incredible bedside manner set him apart from any other doctor I’ve seen. He took the time to explain everything in detail, making sure I felt informed and comfortable every step of the way.

His assistant, Catherine, is equally amazing—thorough, responsive, and always on top of things. She made the entire process smooth and stress-free.

Thanks to Dr. Bell, my quality of life has completely changed. If I ever need another orthopedic procedure, he’s the only one I’ll trust. In fact, my wife already has an appointment scheduled with him for her knee!

Thank you, Dr. Bell—you truly changed my life!

Dr. Phillip Bell performed my total knee replacement surgery nine days ago. I can’t say enough about the results! I have been in little to no pain, I already have full range of motion with both straightening and bending, and his office staff has been exceptional. I cannot recommend Dr. Bell enough. My experience feels like a miracle.

I am so impressed with Dr Bell!!

I had another hip replacement and 2 knee replacements at another facility, but I am so happy I found Dr Bell. He was so reassuring, considerate and professional. I was able to book my surgery within 2 weeks because I had already received my medical clearance.

He met me right before the surgery and said to me “Don’t worry, I will take good care of you!!” And he did!! I was totally confident in his ability!’

After one hour of surgery, was up walking the halls with my walker. The next morning, I was walking the whole floor with my walker. I went home that day and started physical therapy the next day.

I wouldn’t recommend this, but within 4 days I was Christmas shopping at Kohls and Walmart with my walker. It felt really good but I know I over did it!

Within 3 weeks, I was driving and had no pain in my hip and was walking without a limp.

I went back to see him after 2 weeks and then again at 6 weeks!! I was pain free!! I could walk without a walker after 2 weeks and without a limp after 4 weeks!!

Dr. Bell is truly a gifted surgeon and I would highly recommend him. He is a 5 Star Surgeon!!🌟

My first visit with Dr. Bell was over two years ago. He was very thorough about what was going to happen with my right knee replacement. All went smoothly, absolutely no problems with the surgery and rehabilitation. Now over two years later I just completed my second knee replacement with Dr.Bell on my left knee. Just like the surgery before all went well, rehabilitation also went well. Now I am no longer bow legged, knees are straight and there is no pain. I highly recommend Dr. Bell.

Just completed one year since a full left knee replacement. Dr. Bell was terrific throughout the pre-surgery and post-surgery experience. Had a difficult time beginning home physical therapy due to an unexpected complication (partial clot in lower left leg). Sent photos of my very swollen knee and Dr. Bell immediately ordered me into the hospital for scans and testing. Hospital team located the partial clot and treated me accordingly. Very thankful that Dr. Bell knew exactly what to do! Began full-regimen physical therapy with Courtney at STARS Rehab in St. Augustine Beach (she’s wonderful!) and have now had a full recovery and the knee works beautifully - smooth operation and pain-free after many years of discomfort pre-surgery. I’m speed-walking on a treadmill 4 days per week and feel great! Many thanks to Dr. Bell, his Admin Catherine and the entire team at JOI and the Baptist Medical Center!

If knee replacement is in your future, you won't find a better surgeon than Dr. Phillip Bell. From my initial office visit he was open and calming with explaining everything that would entail making my daily life better by having first my knee replacement. It was such a great experience as surgery goes with minimal pain and quick recovery. I "enjoyed" that experience last year so much that I had my left knee replacement a little more than a year later in August. Another good surgery experience as before. Both of these surgeries and my recovery were the best thanks to Dr. Bell's expertise and bedside manner.
Don't wait or worry about your knees, let Dr. Bell perform his magic and make life good again!

Dr Fryberg is an exceptional surgeon. He is so very talented and is very caring! I have had two amazing experiences where he has done surgery on my husband and my mother! He is absolutely the best!

I had no complications, problems with my total knee replacement. This surgeon is phenomenally talented and caring. I will only have him do my other knee replacement. He restored my mobility. Baptist hospital staff was A+.

His Amazing Person and in my opinion The Best Othro .. cares about his patients , listen to what you have to say, comes up with the Best way and plan to get you fixed and heal up. Listen to what he says smart man and you will heal fast. Had a total knee replacement . Healed fast was up walking same day. Only goes to 5 star but I give him a 10 .Thank you for everything

Dr. Frykberg is an exceptional doctor that does a thorough job. He took his time and explained what I needed to do to speed the recovery of my torn meniscus. As an athlete I need to get back as soon as possible.... he helped put my mind at ease and put me the road to recovery.... definitely recommend him!

I waited until the very last minute to do something about my hips. The referring physicians described my hips as "the worst he had ever seen". 2.5 years after surgery, I am still totally restored to full functionality. I am so grateful!

Enthusiastically recommend Dr. Frykberg

Excellent experience. He did knee replacement for me. Listens. Explains everything. Positive and reassuring. He did knee placement surgery on both my primary care physican and his wife. Their recommendations about him and about knee replacement surgery were glowing. Mine too. Wrecked my knee playing football in the 1960s. There was very little they could do with surgery then. Over the decades, knee developed massive arthritis. Team surgeon for Fla Gators in the 1990s gave a discouraging opinion about the extraordinary difficulties of knee replacement surgery - it was relatively new - length of recovery, and limits and durability of knee replacements. In the 20+ years after that, the materials and techniques of knee replacement surgery advanced light years. It's now routine: a short time in surgery, discharge after a day or two in the hospital, a month or two of recovery and exercise therapy produced a normal, functioning, and pain-free knee again after almost six crippled decades.

Exceptional surgeon!

Bedside manner is impeccable. Caring, reassuring and knowledgeable. He's my angel and saved my leg with a total knee replacement surgery.

Dr Frykberg is one of the most caring, knowledgeable doctor who answered all my questions. You do not feel rushed at all. I had a total knee replacement surgery and would highly recommend him.

Wonderful treatment by a fabulous surgeon. He has a great bedside manner while maintaining a professional attitude. Surgery I had for my knee replacement perfect. I recommend him highly for treatment and surgery.

Great!

Finally, a doctor with exceptional bedside manner. He was a listener, compassionate and all around calming nature. He was reassuring and professional. I'm glad I started coming here. First time here with him and he won me over. Thank you!

He’s a great dr who really cares about his patients

I walked around in pain for years certain nothing could be done and if I did get an operation it would be worse. Finally broke down and scheduled a consultation with Dr. Kevin Kaplan. He explained my options and best course of action. He fit me into his busy schedule and did the procedure within weeks of seeing me. I cant remember my knee EVER feeling this good. Recovery was unbelievably quick. The administration and nursing staff were incredible. "Waiting rooms" should have a name change because you are in and out in no time. Everything about the experience was 5 star. Thanks Jacksonville Orthopedic Institute(JOI)!!!! I hope I don't need your services again; but if I do I am calling Dr. Kaplan/JOI.

Dr. Kaplan is the epitome of a professional. He performed an ACL and a Labrum for me and they feel better than ever. My surgery was 6 years ago and he is still only a text away. I have always respected and admired Dr. Kaplan and I refer him to anyone I can. He is a great man and a better doctor!

SIMPLY THE BEST!!!
After 2 previous doctors could not identify the cause of my shoulder problem my wife reviewed the top orthopedic doctors in the area and set up an appointment for me to see Dr. Kevin Kaplan. As soon as he walked into the room he made it feel like we had known each other forever. Very professional yet he quickly put me at ease while making his initial observations. Within 5 minutes he said I had a posterior fracture dislocation of the shoulder. This is before any x-rays or MRI’s. My shoulder had been dislocated for the prior 3 weeks. Dr. Kaplan took the time to explain my injury, discuss what surgery needed to be done and the rehabilitation process following surgery. Rearranging his busy schedule he set up my surgery 3 days later. He performed the Modified McLaughlin Procedure on my shoulder and the surgery was very successful. I was back playing tennis in 3 months. When you have any injury you want the best doctor available and that is Dr. Kevin Kaplan. That is why I recently went back to him with a knee problem. Again greeting me with that smile and sincerely asking how the shoulder was performing, he went through all the options available for the knee. Never pushing for surgery but recommending that I try a modified knee brace first to see if that would correct the problem.
There is a reason why the Jacksonville Jaguars (along with many other local sports teams) selected Dr. Kevin Kaplan as their Team Doctor. Any professional team is going to want the best for their organization and their players. He is the simply the best orthopedic doctor in North Florida.

If there were more stars to give Dr. Kaplan would deserve them!

My friend and brother Dr Kevin Kaplan is an exceptional Dr and great friend. I’ve known him and his family for 25 years now and used to be his Personal Trainer before College. In 1998 I predicted that one day he would probably be putting me back together and sure enough that has come true. He has done the experimental Surgery called Superior Capsular Reconstruction (SCR) on my right and left shoulders and I am pleased to say that both procedures have been very successful. I have full range of motion in both shoulders and would recommend him and this particular Rotator Surgery to anyone. He is definitely mastered the technique and I am forever grateful. Thank you my friend.

Dr. Kaplan has always been a great asset for my family. He’s help both myself and my kids with different injuries. He’s very professional and most of all he’s a doctor that you know genuinely cares about his patients and their successful recovery and well being.

Dr Kaplan is the best! Hard to find a more caring professional in the healthcare industry. Highly recommend!

Dr Kaplan has always been extremely attentive before, during and after the procedure. My family, close friends and I have visited him for a variety of orthopedic injuries and have all been extremely pleased!

I was able to get on the boos for appointment quickly. Day of appointment, office was very organized and I did not have to wait long for appointment. Dr. Kittay was very nice and listened to my concerns. Overall great experience!

Ease of check-in. Everyone so friendly and kind. Dr. Katay is great.

He explained things simply and professionally. The procedure was quick and so far I am seeing improvement.

I have received fabulous care twice now from Dr. Kitay. He and his staff are friendly, efficient and I would recommend them anytime to anyone.

Dr Kitay is professional and very caring. He knew exactly what was wrong with my hand. I needed a steroid injection and it didn’t hurt at all!!! He was excellent and I would definitely recommend him.

Dr. Kitay explains options thoroughly, as well as possible outcomes.

Great communication, explains in detail. I have seen him for several different injuries. Never rushes surgery unless no other option.

I was impressed with Dr Kitay on my first visit. He is a perfectionist and that is what I am looking for in a Dr. He gave me options for treatment and told me which one I would benefit the most from. I will definitely return to Dr. Kitay when I am ready for surgery.

Dr. Kitay is an exemplary physician. I destroyed my left shoulder, and in the truest sense of "The Bionic Man"... he had the technology and he rebuilt it.
The crazy thing is, that his amazing skills as a surgeon pale in comparison to his "bedside manner".
Dr. Kitay actually talks with you, not at you. He is empathetic, caring and has a pretty good sense of humor.

Excellent attention and good service

Dr. Picerno is a competent, compassionate professional who is admired by his patients and coworkers alike. He replaced both of my knees with no complications and I received excellent care.

Dr. Picerno is a very kindhearted doctor who listens to his patients. He thoroughly explains your condition and treatment options. He has seen me for a knee injury. My Mother had a full hip replacement at 80 years old. She has done well, with quick recovery and is grateful every day for her decission. It was a blessing to have the surgery and have Dr. Picerno be her surgeon. He is a Christian and will pray with you prior to surgery if you request him to.
He is without a doubt one of the best doctors we have ever seen and a favorite!

Dr picerno is so caring and his skills as a surgeon are amazing. You can't get any better.

Dr Picerno is an excellent doctor and surgeon. He did both of my knees a few years ago and my knees are doing very very well. He is awesome!! Thank you doctor!

Subsequent Review
I had my 1 year post-surgery check up with Dr Steinberg. For starters, I have zero pain, my mobility has returned and my shoulder replacement surgery was successful.

I cannot stress enough just how well I was treated by Dr Steinberg and his team. From the very first appointment to this day, all of the staff at JOI and in particularly Dr Steinberg's office have been exceptional.

I 100% recommend Dr. Steinberg and his team.

First Review
Dr Steinberg and his fabulous team provided me with excellent care during my recent shoulder replacement surgery. Throughout the entire process from the initial visit, to surgery and PT, I have been very comfortable with Dr Steinberg. Choosing the right person and team of people for a procedure of this nature is an important decision. I am confident that I made the right choice. Dr Steinberg has been clear with his expectations, protocols and desired outcomes. I highly recommend Dr Steinberg, his team and Jessica Bruno PT/OT at JOI.

I've been affected by dupuytren's contracture in both of my hands. Dr. Steinberg has operated on both hands now. I would like to express my sincere gratitude and thanks to Dr. Steinberg and his totally competent and capable staff. The physical therapy that I've received from the Main street JOI facility is top notch. I have total confidence in Dr. Steinberg's orthopedic surgical skills. I highly recommend him for any of your orthopedic surgery needs.

Dr Steinberg knows what he’s doing. Although any surgery has risks, he put me at ease about my chances for a favorable outcome in a detailed and very understandable way. Even though the surgery was for thumb arthritis, he was also able to remove a ganglion cyst which had been present for 50 years. Post surgical rehab has progressed efficiently, and I am confident of the outcome. I am very pleased with the entire experience and can highly recommend Jacksonville Orthopedic and Dr Steinberg.

My husband recently underwent a complete reverse left shoulder replacement surgery performed by Dr. Steinberg. Dr. Steinberg demonstrated exceptional expertise and provided comprehensive explanations, ensuring that we were well-informed about the procedure and the subsequent therapy. Based on our positive experience, both my husband and I highly recommend Dr. Steinberg for his proficiency in shoulder surgery.

We would like to express our gratitude to the entire staff at JOI facilities, particularly Dr. Steinberg, for their exceptional care and support. Our sincere appreciation goes out to everyone at JOI.

I am beyond grateful for Dr. Bruce Steinberg and the exceptional care he provided in repairing my two torn rotator cuffs. From my initial consultation through the entire recovery process, Dr. Steinberg’s expertise, professionalism, and compassion were truly remarkable.

When I first came to Dr. Steinberg, I was in significant pain and unsure about the best course of action. He took the time to thoroughly explain my condition, the surgical procedure, and what to expect during recovery. His clear communication and attention to detail gave me confidence and peace of mind. I never felt rushed or overlooked—he genuinely listens to his patients and ensures they understand every step of the process.

The surgery itself went smoothly, and the results have been life-changing. Thanks to Dr. Steinberg’s skill, I’ve regained full strength and mobility in both of my shoulders. I am now able to enjoy activities I thought I’d never be able to do again, and the pain I once lived with is completely gone.

What truly stands out about Dr. Steinberg is his genuine care for his patients. He is always available to answer questions, check in on your progress, and make sure your recovery is on track. His level of commitment to your health and well-being goes far beyond the operating room, and it's evident that he truly cares about getting you back to your best self.

If you're looking for an orthopedic surgeon with unmatched expertise and a compassionate approach, I highly recommend Dr. Bruce Steinberg. He’s given me back the quality of life I thought I had lost, and for that, I’ll be forever grateful.

Thank you, Dr. Steinberg, for everything you’ve done!

Due to accidents, I had to have both my shoulders replaced. Both surgeries went very well. Dr. Steinburg listened to my concerns and made things very clear. I'm recovered from the last replacement and everything is going very well.
I highly recommend Dr. Steinburg, you’ll get it done right!

Thank you Dr. Steinberg. My grandson came to see you for a 2nd opinion after another orthopedic physician said he needed surgery. However, you felt that all he needed was physical therapy and it worked. He was able to rehabilitate and received a football scholarship to UNC-Charlotte as a Wide Receiver.

I am happy that I was able to use Baptist Medical and Jacksonville Orthopedic Institute because they gave me the best treatment and one of the best Surgeons in the country. Me and my wife were scared out of our wits when I tore my bicep tendon. But thanks to Dr. Steinberg, his expertise and his amazing staff, withing 4 months after my surgery and I'm almost back to normal. The Physical Therapy protocol and strength training is progressing right on track, and withing a few more week I should be as good or better then new. From the bottom of my heart, Thank You, and God Bless all of you, for the game changing talents, I'll be forever grateful.

I had a wonderful experience with Dr Steinberg at JOI. Both times I have had appointments I have been helped promptly by the front desk, the medical assistant, X-ray techs, and the doctor. Everyone I encountered was friendly and kind. We were able to come up with a treatment plan that avoided surgery. I am forever grateful I was able to schedule with Dr Steinberg. I highly recommend him if you need a doctor for your hand, elbow or shoulders.

Dr. Steinberg has been great from my first anxiety-filled visit to now, after the steristrips fell off. The endoscopic carpal tunnel release is NOT your mother's hand surgery. It took no more than 20 minutes and 10 days of being bandaged and my hand feels normal again. No marks on my skin. Dr. Steinberg and his team are great and I have been recommending him to friends who ask about this surgery. Have it done! The sooner, the better.

Great clinician! Thank you!

I would highly recommend Dr. Savarese.

He was very cordial and did not rush through my visit. He was down to earth and answered any questions that I had and I appreciated his experience and knowledge.

The best in pain management!

Dr Savarese is not only brilliant at pain management, but the cheerful demeanor of him and his staff actually make back injections and treatment pleasant . I cannot believe I was laughing as he injected my back.

Dr Savarese has been managing my back pain for 8 years. He and his nurse practitioners are personable and are willing to listen to explore multiple plans for relief. I have referred 3 friends who are now his patients.

Dr. Savarese takes time with each patient to discuss their problem. He is easy going & always smiling. His treatments alleviate my pain.

Dr. Savages had helped me several times, some with injections, other times just medicine or physical therapy, and once he sent me to a surgeon when there was nothing left that he could do. Great bedside manner, professionalism and expertise.

Professional demeanor yet expressed such empathy and concern. He and spoke to me as a person. Rarely u find a doc that has time to explain my spine problem. He broke it down so I could understand it then discussed treatment options. He is not injection happy but I'd choose him over anyone to do my spinal injection. The downside is u may have to wait weeks to get to see him. He had a ARNP for quicker follow ups. If he is late in clinic it's because he takes time with patients.

Dr. Robert Savarese is an excellent pain doctor, he has been my doctor for almost 5 years and he is the best of the best and ahead of the rest when you need pain relief. I highly recommended him to anyone that's tired of being in pain like I was.

Dr. Savarese is a good listener and his theory about my issue was confirmed through an MRI. He was able to treat me without surgery, which I am very thankful for.