Featured Article
KT Tape: Will It Help?
Does KT tape actually help pain or injuries? Orthopedic surgeon Dr. James Barnes explains what kinesiology tape may do, what it cannot do, and when it’s reasonable to try.
Read the article →Lake Havasu City · Bullhead City · Parker · Kingman
Get clarity about what hurts — and what comes next.
Dr. James Barnes provides orthopedic evaluation, sports medicine, joint replacement, fracture care, and treatment plans built around your goals — not a default path to surgery.
Visiting our temporary clinic? See the entrance photo and directions →
We accept AHCCCS and most major insurance plans · Call to verify coverage
James W. Barnes, MDOrthopedic Surgery · Sports Medicine
In the Operating RoomLake Havasu City
U.S. Air ForceMilitary Medical Service
UCLA Sports Medicine FellowshipLos Angeles Lakers
Let his patients tell you why
Reviews from his Tebra profile alongside previously published patient feedback. Names shortened for privacy.
“My visit was unfortunately delayed due to a computer glitch that would not allow Doctor Barnes access to my x-ray. Dr. Barnes personally came to the waiting room and explained the situation and asked all of us waiting if we would like to returning the afternoon, after he performed a hip replacement, or just reschedule. We returned that afternoon and he made time to honor the appointment. We were very impressed that he would go out of his way to do that and still was as pleasant as could be.”
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When you do not know what comes next
Pain is difficult enough. Uncertainty makes it harder.
You may know what hurts without knowing why. You may have conflicting advice, an MRI you do not understand, or concern that seeing a surgeon automatically means surgery.
Your first decision should not be about an operation. It should be about getting a clear diagnosis, understanding the reasonable options, and choosing a plan that fits your goals.
Start here
Choose the path that fits your question.
Joint ReplacementHip, knee, and shoulder replacement guidance.
Sports MedicineInjury evaluation and return-to-activity planning.
HipPain, arthritis, fractures, and treatment options.
KneeLigaments, meniscus, arthritis, and replacement.
ShoulderRotator cuff, instability, arthritis, and fractures.
Hand & WristNerve compression, arthritis, and injuries.
Foot & AnkleSprains, fractures, tendon pain, and arthritis.
OrthobiologicsEvidence-informed injection options and candidacy.What to expect
A clear path from questions to a treatment plan.
The goal is to make the next step understandable, whether your plan includes therapy, an injection, monitoring, or surgery.
- 1
Schedule an evaluation
Choose online scheduling or call the clinic for help.
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Understand the diagnosis
Review the examination, imaging, and what is most likely causing your symptoms.
- 3
Compare your options
Discuss reasonable treatments, expected tradeoffs, and when surgery may or may not help.
- 4
Move forward with a plan
Choose the next step around your health, priorities, and activity goals.
Why patients choose Dr. Barnes
A different kind of orthopedic visit.
Patients drive from Bullhead City, Parker, Kingman, and across the California border. Here's why.
He explains the diagnosis first.
Most patients leave their first visit understanding exactly what's happening — not just a recommendation. Dr. Barnes shows you the imaging, walks you through it, and answers every question before anything else is discussed.
Surgery isn't the default answer.
Conservative treatment is always considered first. Many orthopedic problems improve without an operation. The goal is the best outcome for your life and activity — not the fastest path to the operating room.
Fellowship-trained, board-certified expertise.
UCLA sports medicine fellowship. ABOS board certification. International volunteer team physician experience. The training athletes trust — applied to every patient.
Insurance
Call to verify coveragePlans we accept.
We accept AHCCCS and VA community care, and work with most major carriers, including UnitedHealthcare and TRICARE through TriWest. Participation and benefits vary by specific plan and network, so call to verify coverage before your visit.
Currently Accepted
Credentialing in Progress
We are actively credentialing with the plans below and expect most to be available within the coming months. Call us if you have questions about your specific plan.
Insurance acceptance may vary by plan type. Always call ahead to confirm your specific coverage before scheduling. Full insurance details →
Common questions
Before your first orthopedic visit.
Call the clinic if your situation is not covered here or you are unsure where to start.
Do I need a referral?
Referral requirements depend on your insurance plan. You may schedule directly, but call your insurer or the clinic if you are unsure.
Does seeing an orthopedic surgeon mean I will need surgery?
No. The purpose of the visit is to understand the diagnosis and compare appropriate options. Many orthopedic problems are treated without surgery.
Should I bring prior X-rays, MRI scans, or records?
Yes, when available. Bring the images themselves or arrange electronic access, along with reports, prior treatment records, and an updated medication list.
What insurance plans are accepted?
The practice accepts most major insurance plans. Coverage and network status vary, so verify benefits with your insurer or call the clinic before your visit.
What conditions does Dr. Barnes evaluate?
Dr. Barnes evaluates hip, knee, shoulder, hand, wrist, foot, and ankle problems, sports injuries, fractures, arthritis, and joint replacement needs.
What if my injury may be urgent?
Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department for a limb that appears deformed, an open injury, uncontrolled bleeding, loss of circulation or sensation, or other emergency symptoms.
The Bone Blog
Orthopedic knowledge, clearly explained.
Patient-friendly answers about bones, joints, injuries, imaging, arthritis, and recovery — written for Lake Havasu City patients by Dr. Barnes and his team.
Explore The Bone BlogReady for a clearer next step?
Get answers about what hurts and a plan for what comes next.
Schedule an orthopedic evaluation online or call the clinic for help finding the right starting point. You will not be committing to surgery by scheduling a visit.
View all contact information →
Temporary Clinic Location
Inside Orthopedic Innovations
387 S Lake Havasu Ave, Suite 101
Lake Havasu City, AZ 86406
Look for the Orthopedic Innovations sign and enter through the door shown here for Dr. Barnes’s appointments.
Get Directions →