Skip Navigation
Book Now! Find care near you Find care near you Find care near you
wellstar-logo
Wellstar Go Back
Go to MyChart

Questions? We can help!

Call (770) 956-STAR (7827)

Monday - Friday, 7 AM - 4:30 PM

Contact Us
For Patients & Families For the Community For Providers About Us Careers
  • Start Your Care

  • Find a Doctor
  • Find a Location
  • Our Services
  • Virtual Visits
  • Planning

  • Accepted Insurance
  • Hospital Payment Planning
  • Financial Assistance
  • Pricing Information
  • Before Your Visit

  • Sign Up for MyChart
  • Visitation Guidelines
  • While You're Here

  • Support & Entertainment
  • Join an Event
  • After Your Visit

  • Pay Your Bill
  • Get Medical Records
  • Contact us
  • COVID-19 Support

  • COVID-19 Information
  • Vaccines
  • Testing Information
  • Foundation Relief
  • Community Care

  • In the Community
  • Health Highlights
  • Community Health Needs Assessment
  • Latest News
  • Center for Health Equity
  • Wellstar Find Help
  • Events & Programs

  • Events Calendar
  • On-Demand Classes
  • Support Groups
  • Give

  • Wellstar Foundation
  • Donate
  • Ways to Give
  • Thank a Caregiver
  • West Georgia
    Health Foundation
  • Volunteer

  • PeopleCare Advisory Council
  • For Adults
  • Care

  • Transfer a Patient
  • Cures Act
  • Refer a Patient
  • Lab Test Directory
  • Request to Conduct Research
  • Connect

  • Physician Relations
  • Request Imaging Services
  • Wellstar Clinical Partners
  • Wellstar Medical Group
  • Mayo Clinic Care Network
  • Medical Staff Services
  • Provider Recruitment
  • Log In

  • EpicCare Link
  • Lawson Connect
  • MyID Password Reset
  • Citrix Access
  • Leadership

  • Authority Board
  • Board Of Trustees
  • Foundation Board
  • Regional Health Boards
  • Executive Leadership
  • Awards, Recognition & Safety

  • Accreditation & Certifications
  • Awards & Recognition
  • Safety First Program
  • Nursing
  • Careers at Wellstar

  • Apply now
  • Upcoming virtual events
  • Why Wellstar?
  • Nursing Careers

  • Nursing (Direct Care)
  • Nursing Leadership
  • Nursing (Non-bedside)
  • Nursing Support
  • Physician, APP & Clinical Careers

  • Advanced Practice Providers (APPs)
  • Allied Health Professionals
  • Homecare & Hospice
  • Physicians
  • Support Team Careers

  • Administrative & Clerical
  • Coding, Compliance & HIM Systems
  • Facility, Environmental & Nutrition/Food Services
  • Information Technology & Systems
  • For Patients & Families
  • For the Community
  • For Providers
  • About Us
  • Careers
  • Search Search Search
  • MyChart MyChart MyChart

Start Your Care

Find a DoctorFind a LocationOur ServicesVirtual Visits

Planning

Accepted InsuranceHospital Payment PlanningFinancial AssistancePricing Information

Before Your Visit

Sign Up for MyChartVisitation Guidelines

While You're Here

Support & EntertainmentJoin an Event

After Your Visit

Pay Your BillGet Medical RecordsContact us

COVID-19 Support

COVID-19 InformationVaccinesTesting InformationFoundation Relief

Community Care

In the CommunityHealth HighlightsCommunity Health Needs AssessmentLatest NewsCenter for Health EquityWellstar Find Help

Events & Programs

Events CalendarOn-Demand ClassesSupport Groups

Give

Wellstar FoundationDonateWays to GiveThank a CaregiverWest Georgia
Health Foundation

Volunteer

PeopleCare Advisory CouncilFor Adults

Care

Transfer a PatientCures ActRefer a PatientLab Test DirectoryRequest to Conduct Research

Connect

Physician RelationsRequest Imaging ServicesWellstar Clinical PartnersWellstar Medical GroupMayo Clinic Care NetworkMedical Staff ServicesProvider Recruitment

Log In

EpicCare LinkLawson ConnectMyID Password ResetCitrix Access
About Wellstar

Our patients are the center of everything we do. We're nationally ranked and locally recognized for our high-quality care, inclusive culture, exceptional doctors and caregivers, and one of the largest and most integrated healthcare systems in Georgia.

About Us

Leadership

Authority BoardBoard Of TrusteesFoundation BoardRegional Health BoardsExecutive Leadership

Awards, Recognition & Safety

Accreditation & CertificationsAwards & RecognitionSafety First ProgramNursing

Careers at Wellstar

Apply nowUpcoming virtual eventsWhy Wellstar?

Nursing Careers

Nursing (Direct Care)Nursing LeadershipNursing (Non-bedside)Nursing Support

Physician, APP & Clinical Careers

Advanced Practice Providers (APPs)Allied Health ProfessionalsHomecare & HospicePhysicians

Support Team Careers

Administrative & ClericalCoding, Compliance & HIM SystemsFacility, Environmental & Nutrition/Food ServicesInformation Technology & Systems
Questions? We can help!

Call (770) 956-STAR (7827)

Monday - Friday, 7 AM - 4:30 PM

Contact Us
Close
  • Schedule With This Provider
  • Schedule At This Location
  • Schedule With This Provider
  • Schedule At This Location
  • Urgent Care
  • Primary Care
  • Virtual Care
  • Emergency Care
Close Close Close Book Now Menu
  • Schedule With This Provider
  • Schedule At This Location
  • Schedule With This Provider
  • Schedule At This Location
  • Urgent Care
  • Primary Care
  • Virtual Care
  • Emergency Care

Introducing

Wellstar Virtual Care

Access Wellstar healthcare providers
wherever you are.

Get started

Warning Warning Our "Book Now" feature should not be used for life threatening conditions such as heart attack, severe injury, poisoning, chest pain, or stroke. If you are experiencing such conditions, STOP and CALL 911 IMMEDIATELY or visit your nearest Emergency Department.

I Understand
https://mychart.wellstar.org/mychart/signupandschedule/embeddedschedule?vt=1003&id=1457347874&view=plain

Joseph Burns, MD

Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery
Sports Medicine

Education & Training

Doctor of Medicine

Book an Orthopedic Appointment Meet Dr. Joseph Burns

Joseph Burns, MD

Orthopedic Surgeon with Wellstar since 2020.

Specialties

Orthopedic Surgery
Sports Medicine

Education & Training

Doctor of Medicine

Orthopedic Surgeon with Wellstar since 2020
  • Member of the Wellstar Medical Group A friendly headshot of Dr. Joseph Burns Joseph Burns, MD
  • Office Locations
  • Expertise
  • Patient Reviews
  • Publications & Articles

Office Locations


Expertise

About Joseph Burns, MD

Joseph Burns, MD is the Chief Musculoskeletal Officer at Wellstar, overseeing orthopedic surgery, pediatric orthopedic surgery, sports medicine, orthopedic trauma, hand surgery and podiatry. In addition, he is a practicing, fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon who specializes in shoulder surgery and sports medicine. Prior to coming to Wellstar, Dr Burns was a leader at the prestigious Southern California Orthopedic Institute in Los Angeles, where he trained over 60 fellows and partnered with UCLA to provide world-class orthopedic care and research. Currently, he is on faculty with the Wellstar Kennestone Orthopedic Residency. He has been selected as a Master Arthroscopic Surgeon and a Top Doc in his region every year since 2010.

Dr Burns provides comprehensive surgical care, including but not limited to arthroscopic rotator cuff tendon repair, labral repair, shoulder replacement, “reverse” shoulder replacement, shoulder fracture care.

As a former athlete turned orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Burns uses his skills to help people with injuries or degenerative conditions live a healthy, active life.

In his practice, Dr. Burns’ professional mission is to provide a respectful, personalized and expert healthcare experience for each and every person. That means he works with patients to find the best treatment options for their orthopedic needs, whether it requires surgery or not.

Dr. Burns is a dedicated health partner on his patients’ journey to wellness, from injury to surgery and all the way through recovery. Through his work, he helps patients regain mobility, overcome pain and get back to enjoying life.

Specialties

  • Orthopedic Surgery
  • Sports Medicine

Education & Training

  • Georgetown University School of Medicine

Degree

  • Doctor of Medicine

Residency

  • University of Connecticut

Fellowship

  • Southern California Orthopedic Institute

Certifications

  • American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery - Sports

Hospital Affiliations

  • Wellstar North Fulton Hospital
  • Wellstar Windy Hill Hospital
  • Wellstar Paulding Medical Center
  • Wellstar Cobb Hospital
  • Wellstar Douglas Hospital
  • Wellstar Kennestone Hospital
  • Wellstar West Georgia Medical Center

Languages spoken

  • English

Patient Reviews

Overall patient rating

4.7

Based on 308 patient ratings

I'd recommend this provider to family and friends
I'd recommend this practice to family and friends
Listened to me carefully
Shared the right amount of information
Earned my trust

All reviews have been submitted by patients after seeing the provider.For more information about the review system, check out this Learn more about our review system.

Patient Reviews

5

Very Clean Bathroom

May 10, 2025

5

This is a partnership of doctors with the patients and it works well.

May 10, 2025

5

Very impressed with staff. I went to see Dr Burns because of shoulder pain. X-rays were taken in the office. After Dr. Burns read the x-rays and listened to my symptoms; he came up with a good plan of recovery without surgery.

May 3, 2025

5

I think the waiting time is too long

May 2, 2025

5

Dr. Burns is a brilliant and peppy surgeon. I feel confident in his ability to treat my shoulder.

May 2, 2025

5

Dr and staff went over my condition completely and assigned physical therapy as well as another visit to check my progress

April 30, 2025

5

It was a very good visit . I came for a second opinion and know without a doubt Dr. Burns will be doing my shoulder surgery .

April 19, 2025

5

The parking at this facility is horrible. I also did 3.5 months at same location and would have to circle around 4-6 times and wait for someone to leave. I love my Dr and rehab group but dreaded the parking situation.

April 22, 2025

5

The staff was great, from patient access ( the guy at the second desk) ,radiology, the medical assistant and the Dr . Thank you all.

April 17, 2025

5

I love Joseph Burns as my orthopedic course medicine. He knows what he's doing and very well experienced. The staff is great. I am also a Wellstar baby and I would not go anywhere else. The service since I have become a Wellstar patient, 2004, never changed. Thank you.

April 5, 2025

5

Dr. Burns and his team were absolutely fabulous when I was there. They really listened to what I had to say and even if they didn't have exactly what I needed at their office, they immediately got the people who needed to be involved involved in terms of referrals or anything like that. I felt very seen and heard and really just felt like I was in the best possible care that I was finally going to see some results. So I'm very grateful for that. But thank you and I hope you all have a good day. Bye-bye.

March 29, 2025

4

Dr. Burns is very friendly, made me at ease, explained all the situation and this is the first time he was the third orthopedic I've been to and I really appreciate him making me feel secure.

March 26, 2025

5

Just want to say thank you for your services.

March 15, 2025

5

The daycare was excellent. The staff was very professional and prompt. The physician and the physician's assistant were also fantastic, answered all my questions and treated me excellent, period. I was very happy with the visit and with the team, period.

March 15, 2025

5

So glad my orthopedic Dr in Carrollton found Dr Burns and staff for trauma surgery. I highly recommend them!!

March 9, 2025

5

Dr Burns and staff are excellent. I am a new patient and I believe switching to Dr Burns's practice was the right choice for my wife and me.

March 5, 2025

5

I thought Dr. Burns did a great job. He had me do some various little exercises to see what I could complete. He listened to me carefully. He has put me on the right road for recovery and I was very satisfied with the appointment. Thank you. Bye-bye.

March 5, 2025

5

X ray tech was vary patient with me, a slow moving old guy.

March 2, 2025

5

perfect

March 1, 2025

2

I'm unsure if my physician even cared about my situation.. He was somewhat abrupt. And my opinion; seems he was stereotypically judging me. The question he asked and the comments he made. The front staff however; phenomenal customer service.

March 1, 2025

5

All personnel were friendly, courteous and knowledgeable.

February 24, 2025

5

Dr burns and his staff are very nice

February 24, 2025

5

It was a thorough appt. w/ a sufficient amount of pt. / dr. Interaction and conversation.

February 24, 2025

5

The staff members I spoke with, were well versed in their role responsibilities making the visit effective , positive and clear.

February 15, 2025

4

Friendly atmosphere

February 15, 2025

5

Dr. Burns and staff were kind, efficient, respectful, knowledgeable and helpful. He also had great bedside manner and was personable.

February 14, 2025

5

Friendly front desk staff and xray technician. Doctor listened and explained well. Not a very long wait. Disappointed thst the charge was higher than the estimate.

February 8, 2025

5

They are very professional kind and courteous.I would recommend them to all friends and family

February 8, 2025

5

Your system generates an erroneous appointment reminder email for a different location at a different time causing me an additional trip. Actual appointment was 50 minutes.

February 6, 2025

5

Excellent attention from everyone at the clinic!

February 2, 2025

5

Very Clean Bathroom

May 10, 2025

5

This is a partnership of doctors with the patients and it works well.

May 10, 2025

5

Very impressed with staff. I went to see Dr Burns because of shoulder pain. X-rays were taken in the office. After Dr. Burns read the x-rays and listened to my symptoms; he came up with a good plan of recovery without surgery.

May 3, 2025

5

I think the waiting time is too long

May 2, 2025

5

Dr. Burns is a brilliant and peppy surgeon. I feel confident in his ability to treat my shoulder.

May 2, 2025

5

Dr and staff went over my condition completely and assigned physical therapy as well as another visit to check my progress

April 30, 2025

5

It was a very good visit . I came for a second opinion and know without a doubt Dr. Burns will be doing my shoulder surgery .

April 19, 2025

5

The parking at this facility is horrible. I also did 3.5 months at same location and would have to circle around 4-6 times and wait for someone to leave. I love my Dr and rehab group but dreaded the parking situation.

April 22, 2025

5

The staff was great, from patient access ( the guy at the second desk) ,radiology, the medical assistant and the Dr . Thank you all.

April 17, 2025

5

I love Joseph Burns as my orthopedic course medicine. He knows what he's doing and very well experienced. The staff is great. I am also a Wellstar baby and I would not go anywhere else. The service since I have become a Wellstar patient, 2004, never changed. Thank you.

April 5, 2025

5

Dr. Burns and his team were absolutely fabulous when I was there. They really listened to what I had to say and even if they didn't have exactly what I needed at their office, they immediately got the people who needed to be involved involved in terms of referrals or anything like that. I felt very seen and heard and really just felt like I was in the best possible care that I was finally going to see some results. So I'm very grateful for that. But thank you and I hope you all have a good day. Bye-bye.

March 29, 2025

5

Just want to say thank you for your services.

March 15, 2025

5

The daycare was excellent. The staff was very professional and prompt. The physician and the physician's assistant were also fantastic, answered all my questions and treated me excellent, period. I was very happy with the visit and with the team, period.

March 15, 2025

5

So glad my orthopedic Dr in Carrollton found Dr Burns and staff for trauma surgery. I highly recommend them!!

March 9, 2025

5

Dr Burns and staff are excellent. I am a new patient and I believe switching to Dr Burns's practice was the right choice for my wife and me.

March 5, 2025

5

I thought Dr. Burns did a great job. He had me do some various little exercises to see what I could complete. He listened to me carefully. He has put me on the right road for recovery and I was very satisfied with the appointment. Thank you. Bye-bye.

March 5, 2025

5

X ray tech was vary patient with me, a slow moving old guy.

March 2, 2025

5

perfect

March 1, 2025

5

All personnel were friendly, courteous and knowledgeable.

February 24, 2025

5

Dr burns and his staff are very nice

February 24, 2025

5

It was a thorough appt. w/ a sufficient amount of pt. / dr. Interaction and conversation.

February 24, 2025

5

The staff members I spoke with, were well versed in their role responsibilities making the visit effective , positive and clear.

February 15, 2025

5

Dr. Burns and staff were kind, efficient, respectful, knowledgeable and helpful. He also had great bedside manner and was personable.

February 14, 2025

5

Friendly front desk staff and xray technician. Doctor listened and explained well. Not a very long wait. Disappointed thst the charge was higher than the estimate.

February 8, 2025

5

They are very professional kind and courteous.I would recommend them to all friends and family

February 8, 2025

5

Your system generates an erroneous appointment reminder email for a different location at a different time causing me an additional trip. Actual appointment was 50 minutes.

February 6, 2025

5

Excellent attention from everyone at the clinic!

February 2, 2025

4

Dr. Burns is very friendly, made me at ease, explained all the situation and this is the first time he was the third orthopedic I've been to and I really appreciate him making me feel secure.

March 26, 2025

4

Friendly atmosphere

February 15, 2025

2

I'm unsure if my physician even cared about my situation.. He was somewhat abrupt. And my opinion; seems he was stereotypically judging me. The question he asked and the comments he made. The front staff however; phenomenal customer service.

March 1, 2025

2

I'm unsure if my physician even cared about my situation.. He was somewhat abrupt. And my opinion; seems he was stereotypically judging me. The question he asked and the comments he made. The front staff however; phenomenal customer service.

March 1, 2025

4

Dr. Burns is very friendly, made me at ease, explained all the situation and this is the first time he was the third orthopedic I've been to and I really appreciate him making me feel secure.

March 26, 2025

4

Friendly atmosphere

February 15, 2025

5

Very Clean Bathroom

May 10, 2025

5

This is a partnership of doctors with the patients and it works well.

May 10, 2025

5

Very impressed with staff. I went to see Dr Burns because of shoulder pain. X-rays were taken in the office. After Dr. Burns read the x-rays and listened to my symptoms; he came up with a good plan of recovery without surgery.

May 3, 2025

5

I think the waiting time is too long

May 2, 2025

5

Dr. Burns is a brilliant and peppy surgeon. I feel confident in his ability to treat my shoulder.

May 2, 2025

5

Dr and staff went over my condition completely and assigned physical therapy as well as another visit to check my progress

April 30, 2025

5

It was a very good visit . I came for a second opinion and know without a doubt Dr. Burns will be doing my shoulder surgery .

April 19, 2025

5

The parking at this facility is horrible. I also did 3.5 months at same location and would have to circle around 4-6 times and wait for someone to leave. I love my Dr and rehab group but dreaded the parking situation.

April 22, 2025

5

The staff was great, from patient access ( the guy at the second desk) ,radiology, the medical assistant and the Dr . Thank you all.

April 17, 2025

5

I love Joseph Burns as my orthopedic course medicine. He knows what he's doing and very well experienced. The staff is great. I am also a Wellstar baby and I would not go anywhere else. The service since I have become a Wellstar patient, 2004, never changed. Thank you.

April 5, 2025

5

Dr. Burns and his team were absolutely fabulous when I was there. They really listened to what I had to say and even if they didn't have exactly what I needed at their office, they immediately got the people who needed to be involved involved in terms of referrals or anything like that. I felt very seen and heard and really just felt like I was in the best possible care that I was finally going to see some results. So I'm very grateful for that. But thank you and I hope you all have a good day. Bye-bye.

March 29, 2025

5

Just want to say thank you for your services.

March 15, 2025

5

The daycare was excellent. The staff was very professional and prompt. The physician and the physician's assistant were also fantastic, answered all my questions and treated me excellent, period. I was very happy with the visit and with the team, period.

March 15, 2025

5

So glad my orthopedic Dr in Carrollton found Dr Burns and staff for trauma surgery. I highly recommend them!!

March 9, 2025

5

Dr Burns and staff are excellent. I am a new patient and I believe switching to Dr Burns's practice was the right choice for my wife and me.

March 5, 2025

5

I thought Dr. Burns did a great job. He had me do some various little exercises to see what I could complete. He listened to me carefully. He has put me on the right road for recovery and I was very satisfied with the appointment. Thank you. Bye-bye.

March 5, 2025

5

X ray tech was vary patient with me, a slow moving old guy.

March 2, 2025

5

perfect

March 1, 2025

5

All personnel were friendly, courteous and knowledgeable.

February 24, 2025

5

Dr burns and his staff are very nice

February 24, 2025

5

It was a thorough appt. w/ a sufficient amount of pt. / dr. Interaction and conversation.

February 24, 2025

5

The staff members I spoke with, were well versed in their role responsibilities making the visit effective , positive and clear.

February 15, 2025

5

Dr. Burns and staff were kind, efficient, respectful, knowledgeable and helpful. He also had great bedside manner and was personable.

February 14, 2025

5

Friendly front desk staff and xray technician. Doctor listened and explained well. Not a very long wait. Disappointed thst the charge was higher than the estimate.

February 8, 2025

5

They are very professional kind and courteous.I would recommend them to all friends and family

February 8, 2025

5

Your system generates an erroneous appointment reminder email for a different location at a different time causing me an additional trip. Actual appointment was 50 minutes.

February 6, 2025

5

Excellent attention from everyone at the clinic!

February 2, 2025

5

This is a partnership of doctors with the patients and it works well.

May 10, 2025

5

Very Clean Bathroom

May 10, 2025

5

Very impressed with staff. I went to see Dr Burns because of shoulder pain. X-rays were taken in the office. After Dr. Burns read the x-rays and listened to my symptoms; he came up with a good plan of recovery without surgery.

May 3, 2025

5

I think the waiting time is too long

May 2, 2025

5

Dr. Burns is a brilliant and peppy surgeon. I feel confident in his ability to treat my shoulder.

May 2, 2025

5

Dr and staff went over my condition completely and assigned physical therapy as well as another visit to check my progress

April 30, 2025

5

The parking at this facility is horrible. I also did 3.5 months at same location and would have to circle around 4-6 times and wait for someone to leave. I love my Dr and rehab group but dreaded the parking situation.

April 22, 2025

5

It was a very good visit . I came for a second opinion and know without a doubt Dr. Burns will be doing my shoulder surgery .

April 19, 2025

5

The staff was great, from patient access ( the guy at the second desk) ,radiology, the medical assistant and the Dr . Thank you all.

April 17, 2025

5

I love Joseph Burns as my orthopedic course medicine. He knows what he's doing and very well experienced. The staff is great. I am also a Wellstar baby and I would not go anywhere else. The service since I have become a Wellstar patient, 2004, never changed. Thank you.

April 5, 2025

5

Dr. Burns and his team were absolutely fabulous when I was there. They really listened to what I had to say and even if they didn't have exactly what I needed at their office, they immediately got the people who needed to be involved involved in terms of referrals or anything like that. I felt very seen and heard and really just felt like I was in the best possible care that I was finally going to see some results. So I'm very grateful for that. But thank you and I hope you all have a good day. Bye-bye.

March 29, 2025

4

Dr. Burns is very friendly, made me at ease, explained all the situation and this is the first time he was the third orthopedic I've been to and I really appreciate him making me feel secure.

March 26, 2025

5

Just want to say thank you for your services.

March 15, 2025

5

The daycare was excellent. The staff was very professional and prompt. The physician and the physician's assistant were also fantastic, answered all my questions and treated me excellent, period. I was very happy with the visit and with the team, period.

March 15, 2025

5

So glad my orthopedic Dr in Carrollton found Dr Burns and staff for trauma surgery. I highly recommend them!!

March 9, 2025

5

Dr Burns and staff are excellent. I am a new patient and I believe switching to Dr Burns's practice was the right choice for my wife and me.

March 5, 2025

5

I thought Dr. Burns did a great job. He had me do some various little exercises to see what I could complete. He listened to me carefully. He has put me on the right road for recovery and I was very satisfied with the appointment. Thank you. Bye-bye.

March 5, 2025

5

X ray tech was vary patient with me, a slow moving old guy.

March 2, 2025

5

perfect

March 1, 2025

2

I'm unsure if my physician even cared about my situation.. He was somewhat abrupt. And my opinion; seems he was stereotypically judging me. The question he asked and the comments he made. The front staff however; phenomenal customer service.

March 1, 2025

5

All personnel were friendly, courteous and knowledgeable.

February 24, 2025

5

It was a thorough appt. w/ a sufficient amount of pt. / dr. Interaction and conversation.

February 24, 2025

5

Dr burns and his staff are very nice

February 24, 2025

5

The staff members I spoke with, were well versed in their role responsibilities making the visit effective , positive and clear.

February 15, 2025

4

Friendly atmosphere

February 15, 2025

5

Dr. Burns and staff were kind, efficient, respectful, knowledgeable and helpful. He also had great bedside manner and was personable.

February 14, 2025

5

Friendly front desk staff and xray technician. Doctor listened and explained well. Not a very long wait. Disappointed thst the charge was higher than the estimate.

February 8, 2025

5

They are very professional kind and courteous.I would recommend them to all friends and family

February 8, 2025

5

Your system generates an erroneous appointment reminder email for a different location at a different time causing me an additional trip. Actual appointment was 50 minutes.

February 6, 2025

5

Excellent attention from everyone at the clinic!

February 2, 2025

5

Excellent attention from everyone at the clinic!

February 2, 2025

5

Your system generates an erroneous appointment reminder email for a different location at a different time causing me an additional trip. Actual appointment was 50 minutes.

February 6, 2025

5

They are very professional kind and courteous.I would recommend them to all friends and family

February 8, 2025

5

Friendly front desk staff and xray technician. Doctor listened and explained well. Not a very long wait. Disappointed thst the charge was higher than the estimate.

February 8, 2025

5

Dr. Burns and staff were kind, efficient, respectful, knowledgeable and helpful. He also had great bedside manner and was personable.

February 14, 2025

4

Friendly atmosphere

February 15, 2025

5

The staff members I spoke with, were well versed in their role responsibilities making the visit effective , positive and clear.

February 15, 2025

5

Dr burns and his staff are very nice

February 24, 2025

5

It was a thorough appt. w/ a sufficient amount of pt. / dr. Interaction and conversation.

February 24, 2025

5

All personnel were friendly, courteous and knowledgeable.

February 24, 2025

2

I'm unsure if my physician even cared about my situation.. He was somewhat abrupt. And my opinion; seems he was stereotypically judging me. The question he asked and the comments he made. The front staff however; phenomenal customer service.

March 1, 2025

5

perfect

March 1, 2025

5

X ray tech was vary patient with me, a slow moving old guy.

March 2, 2025

5

I thought Dr. Burns did a great job. He had me do some various little exercises to see what I could complete. He listened to me carefully. He has put me on the right road for recovery and I was very satisfied with the appointment. Thank you. Bye-bye.

March 5, 2025

5

Dr Burns and staff are excellent. I am a new patient and I believe switching to Dr Burns's practice was the right choice for my wife and me.

March 5, 2025

5

So glad my orthopedic Dr in Carrollton found Dr Burns and staff for trauma surgery. I highly recommend them!!

March 9, 2025

5

The daycare was excellent. The staff was very professional and prompt. The physician and the physician's assistant were also fantastic, answered all my questions and treated me excellent, period. I was very happy with the visit and with the team, period.

March 15, 2025

5

Just want to say thank you for your services.

March 15, 2025

4

Dr. Burns is very friendly, made me at ease, explained all the situation and this is the first time he was the third orthopedic I've been to and I really appreciate him making me feel secure.

March 26, 2025

5

Dr. Burns and his team were absolutely fabulous when I was there. They really listened to what I had to say and even if they didn't have exactly what I needed at their office, they immediately got the people who needed to be involved involved in terms of referrals or anything like that. I felt very seen and heard and really just felt like I was in the best possible care that I was finally going to see some results. So I'm very grateful for that. But thank you and I hope you all have a good day. Bye-bye.

March 29, 2025

5

I love Joseph Burns as my orthopedic course medicine. He knows what he's doing and very well experienced. The staff is great. I am also a Wellstar baby and I would not go anywhere else. The service since I have become a Wellstar patient, 2004, never changed. Thank you.

April 5, 2025

5

The staff was great, from patient access ( the guy at the second desk) ,radiology, the medical assistant and the Dr . Thank you all.

April 17, 2025

5

It was a very good visit . I came for a second opinion and know without a doubt Dr. Burns will be doing my shoulder surgery .

April 19, 2025

5

The parking at this facility is horrible. I also did 3.5 months at same location and would have to circle around 4-6 times and wait for someone to leave. I love my Dr and rehab group but dreaded the parking situation.

April 22, 2025

5

Dr and staff went over my condition completely and assigned physical therapy as well as another visit to check my progress

April 30, 2025

5

I think the waiting time is too long

May 2, 2025

5

Dr. Burns is a brilliant and peppy surgeon. I feel confident in his ability to treat my shoulder.

May 2, 2025

5

Very impressed with staff. I went to see Dr Burns because of shoulder pain. X-rays were taken in the office. After Dr. Burns read the x-rays and listened to my symptoms; he came up with a good plan of recovery without surgery.

May 3, 2025

5

Very Clean Bathroom

May 10, 2025

5

This is a partnership of doctors with the patients and it works well.

May 10, 2025

Publications and Articles

Man exercising his upper body by stretching his arm

The 5 Dos and Don’ts of Managing Joint Health

Maintaining healthy joints is essential for mobility and quality of life. When joint pain arises, whether as the result of an acute injury or natural aging, the discomfort can interfere with daily activities and keep you from living your fullest life.

The good news is that it’s possible to protect your joints with the right preventive strategies. By teaming up with the orthopedic experts at Wellstar, you can overcome joint pain and stay at the top of your game.

Do: Train smart and prioritize recovery.

When it comes to joint health, the way you train matters just as much as how you recover.

“Smart training means warm-ups, cool downs and using ice after activities and heat before activities,” said Wellstar Chief Musculoskeletal Officer Dr. Joseph Burns. It also means understanding your body’s limits—you should avoid pushing too hard, too fast, as this can lead to overuse injuries that compromise long-term joint health.

Additionally, variety of movement is key. “You shouldn’t do one sport or one physical activity all year round,” noted Dr. Burns, who specializes in shoulder surgery and sports medicine. Try to mix up your exercises, incorporating a blend of strength, flexibility and mobility training to build joint resilience. Be mindful of any discomfort, and adjust your routine accordingly.

Finally, it’s important to allow for adequate rest and recovery between intense activities to prevent strain and reduce inflammation.

“There’s a normal soreness after activities,” Dr. Burns said, “but if you don’t give your body the opportunity to fully recover, it gets used to the idea that it’s always in pain, always fighting.”

By training smart and prioritizing recovery, you're not just protecting your joints in the short term—you’re setting the stage for a lifetime of movement and vitality.

Don’t: Ignore joint pain.

It’s important to pay attention to the cues your body gives you. Ignoring pain can lead to further damage. According to Dr. Burns, one of the first steps you can take when joint pain occurs is the R-I-C-E method.

“The acronym R-I-C-E, which is rest, ice, compression and elevation, is a good place to start,” he said. This simple yet effective treatment can greatly reduce pain and swelling, and help you get back to enjoying the things you love.

However, if your pain is debilitating, persistent or accompanied by other symptoms, you should consult a physician. “In general, we tell people that the severity of the pain matters; sharp, intense pain is your body telling you something,” Dr. Burns explained. “Another sign is how you’re sleeping. If pain is waking you up at night, it’s time to look into it.”

Do: Discuss treatment options with your healthcare provider.

At Wellstar, our comprehensive total joint care program addresses a variety of joint concerns with both surgical and non-surgical treatment options. We work closely with you to tailor the best treatment plan for your lifestyle.

“Joint pain comes in all shapes and sizes,” Dr. Burns said. Sometimes R-I-C-E is all it takes to reduce your joint pain and promote healing. Other times, a total joint replacement or minimally invasive procedure may be recommended to help you get back to an active lifestyle, whether it’s playing sports or keeping up with your grandkids.

“My job is to help people feel better,” said Dr. Burns, “and sometimes that requires surgery, sometimes it requires medication, sometimes it requires education, and sometimes it requires a pat on the back and encouragement that people are on the right track and doing the right thing.”

In many cases, physical therapy, lifestyle modifications and minimally invasive procedures can provide significant relief before surgery becomes necessary. Whenever possible, Wellstar utilizes state-of-the-art technology to deliver focused care with fewer complications and shorter recovery time.

One example is a treatment called platelet-rich plasma, or PRP. “It harnesses the body’s own healing ability, which is quite amazing,” explained Dr. Burns. “It involves removing a little bit of blood, extracting certain cells—in this case the platelet cells—concentrating them and then injecting them into the body. It’s a great example of the technological advances that can help people avoid surgery.”

If surgery is recommended by your doctor, ensure you understand the risks, benefits and expected recovery timeline. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or seek a second opinion if something concerns you. A well-informed patient is an empowered patient.

Do: Practice healthy habits.

Taking care of your joints requires a high level of discipline when it comes to health maintenance.

Your daily routine should include “stretching, strength training, proper nutrition, rest, recovery and keeping your mind active and focused,” Dr. Burns recommended. “In combination, this can help significantly reduce not only your risk for injury, but your blood pressure, and stress and anxiety levels.”

Stress can trigger joint pain, making it vital to prioritize your mental health. “The mental resiliency is equally important as the physical work,” Dr. Burns said.

Other preventive care practices, including wearing supportive footwear, focusing on proper form and avoiding overexertion, can help create a solid foundation that supports joint health over time. Neglecting these basics often leads to imbalances and strain that could have been avoided.

“It’s an ongoing, lifelong process of maintaining your health,” said Dr. Burns. “There are no shortcuts.”

Don’t: Navigate joint pain alone.

If you’re dealing with joint pain, don’t be afraid to seek care and guidance. “We can’t do it alone,” said Dr. Burns.

While acute inflammation comes on quickly and can be treated fast and effectively, chronic inflammation “isn’t as easy to fix,” the surgeon said. “Oftentimes it involves a long-term approach that may involve rebalancing muscles, physical therapy or muscle strengthening.” By establishing a trusted team of providers, from orthopedists to rheumatologists to physical therapists, you can feel supported at every step of the process.

“From a physician’s standpoint, it is extremely valuable to know your patient,” Dr. Burns shared. “That’s why a health system like Wellstar, where our patients often see several physicians within the system, can be extremely helpful.”

Achieving optimal joint health requires collaboration among numerous experts. Your doctors, surgeons and specialists may work together to recommend exercises or offer lifestyle adjustments that will protect and strengthen your joints.

Above all, maintain open communication with your care team about your symptoms, goals and any changes you feel. This proactive approach ensures you’re not making decisions alone. By seeking the right help early on, you can prevent further joint pain and get back to enjoying daily activities with confidence and ease.

Find a Wellstar orthopedic specialist near you.

Continue reading this article
Wellstar and the Atlanta Business Chronicle discuss the changing landscape of orthopedic care.

Advancements in orthopedic care

This article was originally published on Atlanta Business Chronicle on April 12, 2024.

Orthopedic care has evolved from injury treatment and corrective surgery into a critical component of modern healthcare. As primary care remains foundational in managing overall health, the demand for orthopedic services has surged, reflecting changing lifestyles, demographics and expectations. In any given year, 12% to 14% of the adult population will visit their physician for back pain, according to the United States Bone and Joint Initiative (USBJI).

Against this backdrop of widespread musculoskeletal issues, Wellstar recently convened with the Atlanta Business Chronicle for a panel discussion to delve into the changing landscape of orthopedic care. This insightful forum explored key trends, challenges and innovations shaping the field, with leading healthcare professionals offering valuable perspectives. These discussions unraveled the complexities of orthopedic care, ranging from preventive strategies to cutting-edge treatments. Among the panelists was Steve Quehl, a former college football player for Notre Dame, who started as a tight end before transitioning to a center. Other panelists were Dr. Hodari Brooks, orthopedic surgeon, Wellstar Health System; Dr. Joseph Burns, chief musculoskeletal officer, Wellstar Health System; Dr. Timothy Oswald, pediatric orthopedic surgeon, Wellstar Pediatric Orthopedics. Moderator was David Rubinger, market president and publisher, Atlanta Business Chronicle.

 


Panelist photo: Steve Quehl, a former college football player for Notre Dame; Dr. Hodari Brooks, orthopedic surgeon, Wellstar Health System; Dr. Joseph Burns, chief musculoskeletal officer, Wellstar Health System; Dr. Timothy Oswald, pediatric orthopedic surgeon, Wellstar Pediatric Orthopedics; David Rubinger, moderator, market president and publisher, Atlanta Business Chronicle

 

The rise of orthopedics and interventions

David Rubinger:  There’s an uptick in the demand for orthopedic services and these specialists have become increasingly essential to healthcare. What societal changes drive this heightened need for specialized ortho care?

Dr. Joseph Burns: We’re facing an aging population alongside a growing desire for an active, pain-free lifestyle. In the past, individuals had to endure their limitations and pain for life. Today, people have more options. Technology, techniques and training advancements now provide surgical alternatives that significantly enhance quality of life well beyond middle age. 

Wellstar conducts numerous community campaigns through various channels, including community events, the media and in our offices and hospitals, highlighting the value of maintaining health and establishing a relationship with a primary care physician.

Dr. Hodari Brooks: Societal changes for both our youth as well as adults have resulted in the increased need for orthopedic care. Physical activity has decreased, with fewer kids participating in physical education. This leads to more injuries related to obesity and lack of activity. The need for joint replacements is soaring, driven by both baby boomers aging and younger individuals seeking treatment earlier. Half of my practice is caring for patients under 55, a shift from when people would wait years for treatment. Now, we prioritize improving quality of life sooner rather than later.

Patients, including those seeking joint replacements, are opting for earlier interventions. They are less inclined to wait for treatment, indicating a shift within the healthcare system towards promptly addressing patient needs.

Rubinger: What new injury trends are emerging in sports due to changing physical activity patterns, especially with the rise of extreme sports and diverse workout routines?

Dr. Burns: The rise in overuse injuries among our younger population is disheartening. Young athletes don’t diversify their sports as they once did, leading to year-round specialization and an increased risk of injury. This relentless pursuit of success often comes at the cost of rest and diversity in physical activities.

We’re also encountering complex medical issues that require specialized treatment, reflecting both advancements in medical care and the aging population’s evolving healthcare needs. Conditions once considered untreatable are now within our reach, marking a significant shift in the scope of orthopedic care over the years.

Rubinger: Dr. Oswald, as a pediatric orthopedic specialist, have you frequently observed the concept of subspecialization and the decline in diversification among young athletes?

Dr. Timothy Oswald: It’s a significant area of concern for us, and we’re conducting more research. Recent studies have highlighted the insufficient breaks and rest periods given to children, as well as the trend of starting high-level athletics too young, which aligns with the issue of subspecialization. Kids are not miniature adults. Their orthopedic stresses differ due to growth plates and differing stress responses.

We’re educating the community, including coaches and parents, about the importance of rest periods during training through channels like social media. We aim to implement better training methods so young athletes can continue playing into their college years, as we’re noticing a concerning trend where many high-level athletes quit sports as early as eighth grade.

Rubinger: Steve, as a former college athlete yourself, what’s your observation of the sports world’s changes regarding how injuries are approached, especially compared to when we were younger?

Steve Quehl:
 I view this issue through the lens of my grandchildren and their friends, and I agree with the insights shared by these doctors. Their perspectives must influence parents’ decisions, particularly regarding the early specialization trend. Parents often have unrealistic expectations of their children becoming professional athletes, which can lead to overtraining and injuries. Kids should have a balanced approach to sports. I’m grateful my daughters chose activities like swimming over contact sports for their children, considering the risks to growing bones and muscles.

Prior to my enrollment at Notre Dame, I appreciated the joy of playing multiple sports during each season for fun, without the pressure of turning it into a professional pursuit.

 

Efficient outpatient care benefits

Rubinger: I’ve noticed remarkable changes in my lifetime regarding the duration of procedures and the efficiency of hospital stays or visits to outpatient surgery centers. I’m curious about your perspective on this shift away from extended hospital stays. Do you believe it’s ultimately beneficial or detrimental to patients? What are your thoughts on this evolution of the time spent in hospitals or surgery centers?

Dr. Brooks: There’s been a significant shift in the duration of hospital stays, especially concerning joint procedures. In the past, patients would typically spend several days in the hospital before and after surgery. In my practice, around 90% of primary joint patients can return home the same day, which is remarkable. This change is not only due to patient preferences for quicker recovery but also has medical benefits, such as reducing the risk of infection. Outpatient joint replacement is not done everywhere, however, and it is important to discuss this option with your individual surgeon.

Insurance companies have started incentivizing shorter hospital stays. While this trend has clear advantages, it also comes with challenges, such as pressure to discharge patients quickly. The ability to expedite recovery and minimize specific complications is a positive development I believe will continue.

Rubinger: Do we have data showing a decrease in complications due to the trend of shorter hospital stays, particularly for joint procedures?

Dr. Burns: Evidence indicates improved outcomes for outpatient procedures, with data supporting this trend. The shift involves a comprehensive approach beyond simply performing the surgery and discharging the patient. It requires a multidisciplinary effort, with investments in establishing preoperative optimization programs, patient education classes and a coordinated team approach on the day of surgery.

Patients undergo physical therapy before returning home, but the care doesn’t stop there. We must ensure effective pain management, minimize infection risks and create a safe home environment to support their recovery. This process goes beyond safely discharging patients. It’s about ensuring their complete and safe recovery. I’m proud of the extensive teamwork and complex processes that Wellstar has implemented to support these programs.

Quehl: When it was time to correct my right shoulder this past year, I went in the morning and came back home in the evening. Dr. Burns assured me that I’d be home the same day, and it was a wonderful experience. I didn’t want any overnight stays. It was well-planned and executed, with proper anticipation and expectations set. The follow-up was excellent, too.

Dr. Brooks: Patients are shocked or hesitant when I inform them that they’ll go home the same day. It’s about managing expectations and explaining the benefits, especially as it relates to improved outcomes. Involvement in these programs gives physicians more control over the process. It’s a serious undertaking but rewarding because we can provide more input, especially in an outpatient setting. Collaboration with anesthesia colleagues has improved, particularly with techniques like regional blocks, as patients need to be up and about after surgery. Almost universally in my experience, patients prefer their outpatient surgical experience to any previous hospital stays.

Multimodal pain management success

Rubinger: This leads me to my next question regarding opioids and pharmacology. Has pharmacology evolved over the last decade to improve patient treatment?

Dr. Burns: Most of us are employing what we refer to as multimodal pain control, which involves a process aimed at sparing, if not entirely eliminating, the need for opioids as a primary method of pain management. By utilizing different medications that target distinct pain receptors, we can effectively manage pain while minimizing potential side effects that may arise from relying solely on opioids or multiple doses of the same medication. Advancements in regional blocks, administered by anesthesiologists, allow injections that can provide numbing effects in the affected areas for several days, alleviating initial post-operative pain and reducing patients’ overall need for pain medication over time.

Dr. Oswald: The opioid crisis in the greater Atlanta area is a significant concern for both children and adults, and it’s something we’re all acutely aware of. We’ve initiated extensive research efforts at Wellstar to address this issue and lead advancements in pain management that don’t rely on narcotics. Similar to the approach described in the total joint experience, we’ve been observing this trend for some time now, even in pediatric cases.

When I trained for pediatric spine surgery 20 years ago, patients stayed in the hospital for at least a week post-surgery. By implementing multimodal approaches, we’ve managed to reduce narcotic use by nearly 90% while also transitioning from a week-long hospital stay to just a 23-hour observation period for certain procedures.

Patient satisfaction is higher with these approaches, directly correlating with their overall experience. Are we expediting discharge solely for the sake of pushing people out? Actually, no. It’s about ensuring patients feel empowered in their recovery process, with their pain managed effectively, and their ability to return to the quality of life they desire. These patient-centered care programs optimize outcomes and enhance the overall healthcare experience.

Continue reading this article
Book an Orthopedic Appointment
Joseph Burns, MD
Orthopedic Surgeon with Wellstar since 2020
Rating
4.7
Specialties
Orthopedic Surgery , Sports Medicine
Education
Doctor of Medicine
Medical School
Georgetown University School of Medicine
Residency
University of Connecticut
Fellowship
Southern California Orthopedic Institute
Certifications
American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery - Sports
Spoken Languages
English
Hospital Affiliations
Wellstar North Fulton Hospital
Wellstar Windy Hill Hospital
Wellstar Paulding Medical Center
Wellstar Cobb Hospital
Wellstar Douglas Hospital
Wellstar Kennestone Hospital
Wellstar West Georgia Medical Center
Office Locations
www.wellstar.org/physicians/joseph-burns-md
Back to Top
Branding illustration
Wellstar Logo
More than healthcare. PeopleCare.
Branding illustration
For Job Seekers & Team
Careers Diversity Equity Inclusion and Belonging Onboarding
For Students
Students Portal
Graduate Medical Education
Medical Residency Pharmacy Residency
For Business
Corporate Purchasing
For the Media
Media Room Community Health Needs Assessment
Help
Contact Us Pay Your Bill Policy & Privacy Information Hospital Transparency Information Price Transparency
For Job Seekers & Team
Careers Diversity Equity Inclusion and Belonging Onboarding
For Students
Students Portal

Graduate Medical Education
Medical Residency Pharmacy Residency
For Business
Corporate Purchasing
For the Media
Media Room Community Health Needs Assessment
Help
Contact Us Pay Your Bill Policy & Privacy Information Hospital Transparency Information Price Transparency

Copyright © 2025 Wellstar Health System. All Rights Reserved.

Wellstar does not discriminate on, exclude people or treat them differently on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, sex, gender identity or expression or any other type of discrimination prohibited by law.

Cookie Preferences

We use cookies for booking and general analytics. Learn more about our internet privacy policy.