Kansas City Orthopaedic Institute (KCOI) and Kansas City Orthopedic Alliance (KCOA) are excited to welcome Dr. Sean Bonanni to our expert team of orthopedic specialists. Dr. Bonanni brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in hip and knee joint preservation, with a strong focus on helping patients restore mobility and reclaim their active lifestyles.
Born in South Africa and raised in Kansas City, Dr. Bonanni has deep roots in the community. He completed his medical degree and residency at the University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC), followed by an esteemed fellowship in adult hip and knee reconstruction at Northwell Health in New York. During his fellowship, he honed his skills in treating a wide range of hip and knee conditions, from arthritis to cartilage injuries, and developed expertise in complex joint replacements and revision surgeries.
A Patient-First Approach
Dr. Bonanni’s commitment to patient care is clear in his philosophy: empowering patients to work together in developing personalized treatment plans. He understands that visiting a surgeon can feel intimidating, but he strives to create an approachable environment where patients feel seen, heard and supported every step of the way.
“I believe in treating my patients as partners in their healthcare journey. It’s not just about performing surgery; it’s about getting them back to their lives and the activities they love, whether that’s hiking, swimming or simply walking without pain,” says Dr. Bonanni.
Specializing in Hip & Knee Joint Therapy
With a specialty in hip and knee arthritis, Dr. Bonanni is passionate about helping individuals suffering from chronic pain regain their independence. He treats patients across a broad age spectrum, from their 30s to their 90s, tailoring treatment plans to each person’s needs. His work includes everything from minimally invasive joint preservation techniques to complete joint replacements and complex revisions.
“Chronic joint pain can be debilitating, impacting daily activities like walking or even standing. My goal is to help patients not just manage their symptoms but truly improve their function and quality of life,” he said.
Dr. Bonanni also emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive recovery approach, recognizing that his role is only one part of a patient’s journey to healing. He highlights the significance of physical therapy, patient commitment and home support in achieving successful outcomes after surgery.
Fall Sports and Joint Care: Staying Active and Injury-Free
As the fall season kicks off, many athletes and recreational sports enthusiasts are eager to get back on the field or court. However, with increased activity comes the potential for joint stress and injury, particularly in the hips and knees. Dr. Bonanni offers some essential advice for staying active and avoiding joint injuries during the fall sports season.
“Staying active is fantastic for your overall health, but it’s important to be mindful of your body, especially if you haven’t been consistently active,” says Dr. Bonanni. “Many people jump into fall sports, whether it’s weekend football games, running or cycling, without properly warming up or conditioning their bodies, which can lead to injuries.”
Here are Dr. Bonanni’s top tips for protecting your joints this season:
- Warm Up Properly: Before engaging in any sport or exercise, it’s crucial to prepare your muscles and joints. A proper warm-up routine that includes dynamic stretches and light cardio can help prevent muscle strain and joint injuries.
- Gradually Increase Activity Levels: If you’ve been less active in the summer or are just starting a new sport, don’t push your body too hard right away. Gradually increase your activity level to allow your muscles and joints to adapt.
- Strengthen and Condition: Strong muscles support your joints, so incorporating strength training into your routine can help stabilize the hips and knees. Exercises that focus on the core, legs and lower back are especially beneficial for joint health.
- Low-Impact Activities for Joint Protection: Activities like swimming and cycling are great low-impact options that help build endurance and strength without putting too much stress on the joints. These can be especially helpful for people experiencing early signs of hip or knee pain.
- Listen to Your Body: Joint pain can be a signal that something isn’t right. If you experience persistent pain or discomfort in your hips or knees, it’s essential to address it early. “Sometimes, simple aches and pains can be managed with rest, ice or physical therapy, but if the pain persists, seeing a specialist for an evaluation is always a smart decision,” says Dr. Bonanni.
What to Do if You’re Experiencing Joint Pain
For those in their 30s, 40s or 50s who still want to remain active but experience joint discomfort, Dr. Bonanni suggests a gradual ramp-up to exercise, with a focus on mobility and strengthening exercises. “If you’re starting to experience chronic knee or hip pain, especially as you get older, it’s important to address muscle imbalances and stiffness. In many cases, exercises that improve mobility and strength can alleviate joint pain and allow you to remain active.”
However, if pain persists or significantly limits your activities, it’s time to consult an expert. “Seeing a specialist can help you get a better understanding of the root cause of your joint pain and provide options for treatment, whether it’s non-surgical methods or, in some cases, surgery,” he adds.
KCOI and KCOA are thrilled to have Dr. Bonanni as part of our team, where his expertise in joint therapy and dedication to patient-centered care will no doubt benefit many. If you’re experiencing hip or knee pain and want to explore your options, Dr. Bonanni is ready to work with you to find the best path forward.
Request an Appointment with Dr. Sean Bonanni Today
Don’t let joint pain slow you down this fall. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Bonanni and learn how his specialized care can help you, click here to request an appointment at the KCOA clinics. To learn more about our other expert KCOI providers, please click here.
