Business Details
47 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Your Trusted Orthopedic Specialists in Chattanooga
Center for Sports Medicine & Orthopaedics has provided multi-specialty orthopedic care to the Chattanooga region since 1979. Our board-certified physicians and medical experts specialize in sports medicine, orthopedics, interventional pain management, surgery, and rehabilitation. With 11 locations across Southeast Tennessee and North Georgia, we offer comprehensive care including arthroscopic procedures, total joint replacement, spine surgery, and sports performance training. Our team utilizes minimally invasive techniques and advanced technologies to deliver precise diagnoses and effective treatments.We maintain a zero-tolerance policy for aggression in our facilities and prioritize patient safety through ACR-accredited MRI services and certified athletic training programs. Our outpatient surgery center provides transparent pricing and state-of-the-art tools complemented by highly skilled specialists focused on patient recovery and mobility restoration.
Services
Orthopedic Surgery
Sports Medicine
Physical Therapy
Imaging Services
Urgent Care
Orthobiologics
Occupational Health
Performance Training
Joint Replacement
Pain Management
Details
- Year established: 1979
Highlights and features
- 45+ years of specialized orthopedic experience since 1979
- 11 convenient locations across Southeast Tennessee and North Georgia
- ACR-accredited MRI services for accurate diagnostics
- 24/7 urgent orthopedic care at Gunbarrel location
- Personalized treatment plans using minimally invasive techniques
Associations and certifications
- American College of Radiology
What people say
Phenomenal care
Thorough exam
Quick diagnosis
Excellent care
Highly recommend
Services
Orthopedic Surgery
Our board-certified surgeons specialize in arthroscopic procedures, total joint replacements, and minimally invasive techniques. We treat complex conditions affecting knees, shoulders, hips, and spine using advanced surgical tools. Patients benefit from faster recovery times and improved mobility through our comprehensive surgical care.
Sports Medicine
Comprehensive sports injury treatment and prevention programs for athletes of all levels. Services include acute injury management, performance optimization, and return-to-play testing. Our specialists combine biomechanical analysis with customized rehabilitation plans to enhance athletic performance and reduce re-injury risks.
Physical Therapy
Personalized rehabilitation programs address sports injuries, post-surgical recovery, and chronic pain management. Our licensed therapists utilize modalities like ASTYM treatment, dry needling, and anti-gravity treadmill training. Each plan focuses on restoring function, improving mobility, and preventing future injuries through evidence-based techniques.
Imaging Services
State-of-the-art diagnostic imaging including MRI, digital X-ray, and CT scans. Our ACR-accredited MRI services use 1.5 Tesla technology for precise soft tissue visualization. Certified radiology technologists ensure accurate diagnostics for musculoskeletal conditions, enabling targeted treatment planning and faster patient recovery.
Urgent Care
Seven-day-a-week orthopedic urgent care for acute injuries like fractures, sprains, and joint dislocations. Fellowship-trained providers offer immediate treatment with on-site diagnostics. Available at Gunbarrel location with extended weekend hours, providing ER alternative for non-life-threatening musculoskeletal emergencies.
People
Dr. Jason Robertson
Non-Operative Specialist
Board-certified orthopedic specialist with expertise in non-surgical treatments. Director of McCallie Urgent + Ortho Walk-In Clinic, providing immediate care for musculoskeletal injuries while emphasizing conservative treatment approaches.
Dr. Bradford Mitchell
Sports Medicine Specialist
Leading non-operative orthopedic care with focus on sports medicine. Director of Gunbarrel Urgent + Ortho Walk-In Clinic, combining clinical expertise with immediate injury assessment and treatment for active patients.
Dr. Brett Sanders
Orthopedic Surgeon
Specialist in arthroscopic knee and shoulder surgery with additional expertise in sports medicine and orthobiologics. Provides comprehensive care for joint injuries and degenerative conditions using advanced surgical techniques.
Dr. Chad Smalley
Orthopedic Surgeon
Board-certified specialist in arthroscopic procedures and sports medicine. Offers expertise in shoulder replacement and orthobiologic treatments, focusing on minimally invasive solutions for joint pain and athletic injuries.
Dr. L. Shay Richardson
Sports Medicine Specialist
Non-operative orthopedic specialist with focus on interventional musculoskeletal medicine. Provides comprehensive care for sports-related injuries and chronic pain conditions through evidence-based treatment approaches.
Questions
What orthopedic services are available through urgent care?
Our urgent clinics treat sports injuries, fractures, sprains, and acute joint pain. Available for patients ages 5+ with on-site diagnostics and immediate specialist care.
Do you offer same-day appointments?
Yes, we provide same-day urgent care Monday-Friday and weekend walk-ins at Gunbarrel location for musculoskeletal emergencies.
What imaging services are available?
We offer ACR-accredited MRI, digital X-rays, CT scans, and specialized orthopedic diagnostics using state-of-the-art equipment at multiple locations.
Are orthobiologic treatments covered by insurance?
Most commercial insurers consider orthobiologic procedures elective and investigational, making them self-pay services at this time.
What therapy options exist for sports injuries?
Comprehensive rehabilitation includes physical therapy, sports-specific rehab, dry needling, ASTYM treatment, and performance training programs tailored to individual recovery needs.
How are work-related injuries handled?
Our occupational health program provides prompt workers' comp evaluations, return-to-work planning, and direct liaison support for employers and injured employees.
Videos
Reviews (6)
Michelle Hise
Jun 08, 2022
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The staff was very kind and professional. I expected the same from the PA. However she must have been having a hard day because she was rude and it was difficult for me to explain to her the pain I have been dealing with while waiting for it to heal. She said with a tone that she doesn't give pain medicine and I made it clear to her that is NOT why my doctor sent me to your Urgent Care. Hopefully she can adjust her attitude or have better days for the other patients. I don't think I need to see her again.
Emily Guyer
May 26, 2022
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In my opinion, this is the only place to go in Chattanooga. I suffered with hip pain for 16 years and no one took me seriously because of my age. Three years age I needed a hip replacement. They found my problem and I had the best care and advice from the moment they found my arthritis until my hip replacement at 41. This is the ONLY place I would trust for any issue related to bones and joints. Doctors, PAs, and staff are very knowledgeable and thorough. I would highly recommend.
Mark Rhoads
May 24, 2022
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Jill Stafford was very pleasant, easy too talk to. Jill answered our questions if she didn't have the answer she told us to ask Dr. Ballard. Jill didn't make us feel rushed during our visit., she took her time in taking care of me.
Tx Moosie
May 22, 2022
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Noone wants to need an orthopedic Dr, but I can say without q doubt if I do again.or anyone I know does. I will recommend the Center for Sports Medicine and Pace Rothery without hesitation. They have a wonderful balance of professionalism and friendly compassion that makes an inherently painful and unpleasant situation much more bearable. She explained, and showed me what was wrong clearly without being condescending or impatient. 5 stars are not enough for her and every other member of staff 8 encountered.
Dawn Rider
May 10, 2022
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I really want to express how cheerful and helpful Karen, at the front desk, is. Every time I walk in your door, she has always made me feel cared for and not just like another patient. She is the true meaning of customer service that so many places, their employees do not show this to their customers. I work at Walmart and I try to show our customers the same treatment as Karen shows me. Thank you Karen.
I think you are exceptional! But also, All the staff up front and throughout the office are professional and friendly, as well. The staff and my doctor are awesome also. I see Dr. Shay Richardson. They really listen and try to help you recover as quickly and safely as they can. They care about you.
I think you are exceptional! But also, All the staff up front and throughout the office are professional and friendly, as well. The staff and my doctor are awesome also. I see Dr. Shay Richardson. They really listen and try to help you recover as quickly and safely as they can. They care about you.
Shelly Fitzgerald
Apr 23, 2022
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Comes across as a volume business, nonexistent leadership. Clearly underpaid front of house, absolutely rude receptionist at the surgery center downtown. If you must use services at any of their locations, hold them to the same standards you would other providers, you are paying for services and at a minimum should be provided basic healthcare and professionalism. If you are uncomfortable with speaking up, bring someone with you to advocate on your behalf. Good luck and speedy recovery. :
