I would give Dr. Kerr 10 stars if I could. He is an incredible surgeon and an even better person. I am a 24y/o female who HAD (not anymore :)) a large herniated disc at L5-S1. Long story short: I struggled with sciatica pain for 2 years, and surgery was the next option. I did my research to find the best of the best surgeons, and all arrows pointed to Dr. Stewart Kerr. I traveled 2.5 hours to every appointment and I NEVER regretted it. When he says he aims to treat all patients like family, he isn't kidding. His presence is so comforting, and his surgical team is as well. Mikhaela H
Dr. Kerr is a world class physician who I would highly recommend to anyone looking for a specialist within orthopedic medicine.
It is one thing to be an orthopedic surgeon who is detail oriented, thorough, and meticulous - all great qualities. However, Dr. Kerr also brings energy, compassion, and a down to earth nature. This is what separates him from good to the best. It's truly clear he is passionate about what he does. Highly recommend! Sean C
Dr. Kerr and staff did an excellent job on my lower back decompression. I had very little pain after the surgery and recovered quickly. I was able to go for short walks the following day and progressed to longer walks including some stretching exercises. I would highly recommend Dr. Kerr and Seattle orthopedics. William G
Dr Kerr did an amazing job repairing my torn Achilles. I'm jogging 3 months later! I would highly recommend him to anyone looking for any procedure. Leo S
My mom was suffering from a pinched nerve in her back and then also sciatica. Dr Kerr performed 2 surgeries that completely relieved the pain and discomfort. He is a very talented doctor with excellent patient rapport and attention to detail. Andrei Z
After falling and breaking my hip, I was fortunate to have Dr. Kerr and his team perform hip replacement surgery at Swedish Hospital in Ballard. Dr. Kerr and his team of surgeons, anesthesiologists, as well as the wonderful, caring, and professional team of nurses and assistant staff helped make my surgery such a success. In large part, I was pretty mobile after 6 weeks due to the careful instructions given to both my husband (backup team) and myself. Thank you so much, Dr. Kerr and team for your expertise and care in helping me regain a normal, active life. Beverly S
On Sept 1, I had ACDF surgery with Dr. Kerr, and it was the best decision I've made. I came to see Dr. Kerr, as I'd had tingling and numbness down both arms and into my hands off and on for years, and my PCP suggested I see a specialist. Dr. Kerr took the time to listen to my concerns and pains, do a thorough exam, and review x-rays and MRI. He very specifically told me what my options were, and the risks and benefits of each. Leading up to and after the surgery date the entire staff was very communicative and empathetic. Any time I called, and I called often, they responded quickly and had great advice. I would definitely recommend Dr. Kerr and the staff at Orthopedic Specialists of Seattle. Robert W
I was experiencing unrelenting pain and muscle spasms in my neck and shoulder for 4 months - and unable to sleep at night. Dr. Kerr listened to my symptoms, was thorough in his exam which included x rays and an MRI, and was clear in his recommendation. He discussed all possibilities, including surgery, but said he would never do a surgery that was not necessary. I received a steroid injection in my cervical spine with very good results. The pain lessened enough for me to participate in physical therapy to regain range of motion in my shoulder and I am now pretty much back to my active baseline - and able to sleep at night. I highly recommend Dr. Kerr. Julie V
I arrived at Proliance thinking that there was a problem with my shoulder. After consulting with the shoulder specialist, I was referred to Dr Kerr because my neck was causing the problems with my arm and shoulder. You can imagine how confused I was because my neck felt fine. Dr Kerr over many visits explained to me how my nerves were being affected and how this was not going to resolve itself on its own. I was very apprehensive about surgery and Dr Kerr patently explained to me again and again that this was how I could get the strength in my arms back. Finally, I agreed to surgery and now a year later I am like new. I have all the strength in my arms back and feel like I have a new lease on life. Thanks, Dr Kerr, for your patient persistence and for doing and excellent job on the surgery. Louise H
I fractured my right tib & fib skiing earlier in the year, and Dr. Kerr performed surgery on me a few days later to help start the healing process. We worked through some delays the day of the surgery to get the procedure done in the middle of the night, and since then, we’ve had a good relationship every time I come in to get updated x-rays. I appreciate everything he’s done for me and my recovery, and everything he has said or predicted about my recovery has been true. I would recommend him to anyone. Jason C
I had back pain with every move I made for 2 years. Because of the atypical presentation of my back pain, I spent 2 years seeking help without success. Dr. Kerr was the first provider to really listen and not dismiss my symptoms. He used my history, his physical exam, and the imaging and test results to put together a plan. Two weeks after spinal fusion surgery the pain I had before surgery is 95% gone. I wake up so happy and thankful every day. Thank You Dr. Kerr Mary H
Before I found my way to Dr. Kerr (via recommendation from my physical therapist), I had been bounced around for weeks in the Virginia Mason system, from my primary care physician who didn't even weigh in the whole time to VM's spine and neck clinic. The VM spine and neck clinic incorrectly diagnosed me and the whole VM system was very passive in its treatment of me. I called Dr. Kerr's office literally crying because I had not slept due to excruciating pain for nearly 24 hours (one of many sleepless and pain-filled evenings) and they squeezed me in for a visit within days. Dr. Kerr immediately diagnosed my herniated disc in my neck, which was confirmed with a prompt MRI (something VM was not willing to do). Dr. Kerr's scheduler worked diligently and compassionately with me and my insurance to get my surgery scheduled. Dr. Kerr recommended disc replacement for me. I spent the better part of 2.5 months in bed and, until Dr. Kerr prescribed the correct medication, in excruciating pain, but within 2 weeks of my surgery, I was back to playing tennis and to fully engaging in a very active lifestyle. I am so grateful to Dr. Kerr and his entire surgical and support team. Beth J
About 12 weeks ago I had a hip replacemkent surgery done by Dr. kerr and his team. If i would have known then what I know now I would not have waited near as long as I did. First..Dr. Kerr was great to work with always was there with the answer to any questions. His team was great to me and great to work with. As for the operation.....How about invasive surgery...with no pain....when surgery was done...there was and still has been no pain.....a bit of soreness and ache but the differance is like night and day....Dr. Kerr and his team was a great experience...and will do it again without hesitation.(already planing knee operation) Pierre R
I been seeing Dr. Keer for the last two months, he is the first back and spine Doctor that fix my back pain on the L3. This is my 4th spine doctor I have seen over the last 6 years. He did a simple procedure, an injection into the nerve at the L3. Over the course of 3 days all pain has gone away for the first time over 6 years. Its was so strange to set and walk with no pain. I been living with it for so long I believe there was not hope. Most important is the excellent support staff he has working around him. They run an outstanding efficient on time operation. I truly have deep gratitude for the treatment and results from Dr. Keer and his staff. I highly recommend you to see him if not happy or have questions about anything to do with your back or spine. Randy W
Fantastic. I had an awful sciatica problem for over 20 years, just progressively getting worse. Dr. Kerr was able to locate and fix the problem with a really effective surgery. Was easy to recover, and made a world of difference. So happy with the results. Hobo K
Dr. Kerr helped me to get back to work and provided the best care I could receive. Extremely grateful!
I couldn’t ask for better care and motivation to get back on track both professionally and personally.
A huge thanks to Dr. Kerr Robert H
I have been suffering with low back and hip pain for years. I went thru all the prescribed lower level treatments - physical therapy, spinal injections - nothing made a lasting difference. As a lifelong runner it was crushing to reach the point where I simply could not run or even walk long distances without pain. I was resigned to giving up that part of my life. Eventually the pain grew worse and my back would spasm throughout the day.
In a last ditch effort I saw Dr. Kerr. After and x-ray and an MRI he was able to correctly diagnosis my condition and recommended ALIF surgery. Dr. Kerr patiently and thoroughly answered all of my questions. Back surgery is not something to enter into lightly. But after discussing the pros and cons, I made the decision to move forward. BEST DECISION EVER!
I am 6 weeks post-op and feel amazing. My recovery is going so well the biggest problem I have now is holding myself back from doing to much to soon. My only regret is that I didn't find Dr. Kerr earlier. Finding a physician you trust can be one of the biggest hurdles in accessing appropriate care. I highly recommend Dr. Kerr to anyone who is suffering from spine or neck pain Kelly s
My mother is a patient of Dr. Kerr. She has been seeing him since July. He is always kind, respectful and generous of his time. He really wants the best care for her and is not quick to do surgery when she didn't need it. I highly recommend Dr. Kerr, not just for his knowledge but his kindness and compassion he shows. Thank you Dr. Kerr for being there. Karen Hanson for Betty Nelson Jim H
Dr Kerr recently treated my husband for spinal stenosis. He was very caring, gentle and knowledgeable, and quickly assessed my husband's condition. He prescribed both medications and physical therapy. 3 weeks later, husband is almost back to normal. We highly recommend Dr. Kerr!!! Sally R
Dr. Kerr was very sensitive to my reluctance to surgical correction of my lower back problem. He carefully evaluated my condition, presented me with a series of treatment options and tradeoffs, and worked with me to choose the treatment approach that would meet my goals. We ultimately chose minimally invasive surgery, which his team performed flawlessly. A few weeks later, and I am doing better than before the condition materialized. Tom B
I have been suffering with low back and hip pain for years. I went thru all the prescribed lower level treatments - physical therapy, spinal injections - nothing made a lasting difference. As a lifelong runner it was crushing to reach the point where I simply could not run or even walk long distances without pain. I was resigned to giving up that part of my life. Eventually the pain grew worse and my back would spasm throughout the day.
In a last ditch effort I saw Dr. Kerr. After and x-ray and an MRI he was able to correctly diagnosis my condition and recommended ALIF surgery. Dr. Kerr patiently and thoroughly answered all of my questions. Back surgery is not something to enter into lightly. But after discussing the pros and cons, I made the decision to move forward. BEST DECISION EVER!
I am 6 weeks post-op and feel amazing. My recovery is going so well the biggest problem I have now is holding myself back from doing to much to soon. My only regret is that I didn't find Dr. Kerr earlier. Finding a physician you trust can be one of the biggest hurdles in accessing appropriate care. I highly recommend Dr. Kerr to anyone who is suffering from spine or neck pain Kelly S
In June of 2020, I saw Dr. Stewart Kerr in Seattle for chronic pain caused by considerable disc damage and deterioration at multiple levels in both my cervical and lumbar spinal areas due to an accident. I started with conservative, non-invasive treatments including chiropractic, physical therapy, and massage to help relieve my symptoms which were numbness and pain in my hand and arm, and extensive pain across my upper back and lower back, but eventually I realized these therapies only provided short term relief; a week at most, and I needed to obtain a better understanding of my problem.
Dr. Kerr came highly recommended from his years of experience working with trauma patients in Afghanistan, and in Alaska and Washington State. He was super nice, knowledgeable, and his words were comforting as we looked at my X-rays and MRIs and he explained in detail the two spine surgeries I needed to get back to the healthy, active lifestyle I’d enjoyed before my accident. He instilled the confidence I needed to move forward and I left his office feeling hopeful for the first time in years.
In Sept he performed a multilevel ACDF (Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion) that resolved the pain in my upper back and in January 2021, with severe sciatica extending down both my legs, he proceeded with the surgery on my lower back, performing the Multi-level Lumbar Spinal Fusion surgery on L4, L5, and S1and now I have no sciatic or lower back pain. Thank you, Dr. Kerr! D Notes
Dr. Kerr provided exceptional care for my lower back. No surgery was needed however I have complete confidence had I needed it I would have been in good hands. I would highly recommend Dr. Kerr! Jeffery S
Amazing surgeon, he took great care of me when I was feeling probably some of the worst pain of my life. Multiple level spinal fusion. Amazing surgeon is only 1 of the great qualities you will experience, Dr. Kerr spends time with his patients and answers every question. Bedside manner second to none. Highly recommend if you have neck or back issues, Dr. Kerr is the best surgeon I have ever had. Thank Dr. Kerr and your staff for taking such good care of me. Daniel K
Dr. Kerr is top notch! Friendly, kind, and above all a GREAT orthopedic surgeon. I had a clavicle fracture (ORIF) that needed urgent repair. It's been well over a month since my surgery, and I truly have no complaints: the surgery was great (pre, during, and post), provided a thorough analysis of my clavicle fracture (tips, dos/don'ts, etc.), and without his help I wouldn't have the mobility that I have now. If you're looking for someone to repair your clavicle, don't hesitate to pay Dr. Kerr and his awesome team a visit! Ian P
I had ongoing neck pain for 30 + years from injury and progressing arthritis. I finally went in to see Dr Kerr and had some imaging done. He recommended surgical fusion of C4-C7 due to severe arthritis and stenosis. We made a plan for the surgery Summer of 2020 during Covid. Dr Kerr is professional and compassionate, and encouraged likely pain relief with the surgery. I spoke with some friends and colleagues who had similar surgeries recently. After years of waiting... I am not sure why I endured the discomfort so long. Am so grateful I found Dr Kerr and he was able to help with my condition. Feel like a new person 6 months post operative! Have enjoyed working with the doctors at Seattle Orthopedic Center over the years. Todd H
My mother is a patient of Dr. Kerr. She has been seeing him since July. He is always kind, respectful and generous of his time. He really wants the best care for her and is not quick to do surgery when she didn't need it. I highly recommend Dr. Kerr, not just for his knowledge but his kindness and compassion he shows. Thank you Dr. Kerr for being there. Karen Hanson for Betty Nelson Jim H
Man I cant say enough good things about Dr. Kerr what he has done for me in such a short time and how quickly i healed after having Thoracic Lumbar disk Herniation Decompression surgery. I walked out of the hospital hours after and felt great. Dr. Kerr is by far the most personable Dr. Ive ever worked with his sincerity and dedication to his patients is above and beyond and the same goes for all of his staff members. Thanks again to all involved Roy O
I was referred to Orthopedic Specialists of Seattle and Dr. Kerr from my Dr in Eastern WA due to complications with a prior back surgery. My experience with Dr Kerr has been excellent. He is very attentive, and listens closely to the patient to understand their current condition and problem. His physical exams have been very thorough and I can tell he really wants to figure out the problem and find the best solution for my health. You won't find this will all Dr's. The front desk staff has also been very helpful figuring out all of my insurance issues. Thanks Dr. Kerr Tri-Cities
I went to Dr. Kerr with a ruptured patella tendon. He go me in right away and performed a speedy and thorough surgery. Dr. Kerr seems to be a very knowledgeable doctor and is see me through a long rehab. I highly recommend him. Norm S
Dr Kerr recently treated my husband for spinal stenosis. He was very caring, gentle and knowledgeable, and quickly assessed my husband's condition. He prescribed both medications and physical therapy. 3 weeks later, husband is almost back to normal. We highly recommend Dr. Kerr!!! Sally R
I had an issue with my lower lumbar which resulted in debilitating pain radiating down my leg. I was hesitant to say the least in my consideration of a surgical option with all of the negative hype surrounding "back surgery". Dr. Kerr took the time and reviewed my imagining with me, logically outlined my condition and provided a steadfast recommendation. His prognosis and surgical prowess was spot-on and I feel 100 times better. I personally choose Dr. Kerr based on his military service, volunteerism and participation in advance fellowships. I was seeking a doctor who would put their patient before themselves and had the training and expertise to assure a quality outcome and I was not let down. #Highly Recommend Chad R
I injured my Achilles' tendon and Dr. Kerr at Orthopedic Specialists of Seattle accepted me as a patient almost immediately, for which I was very grateful. Dr. Kerr has a warm, friendly demeanor, is clear and professional with patients, and makes you feel like everything is going to work out. Very comforting. He did an excellent job taking care of my injury, which required surgery. It's healing up nicely (no scar!) and I'm expecting a full and fast recovery. Dr. Kerr and OSS are top notch. Highly recommended. Steve K
I sought a second opinion with Dr. Kerr after suffering with severe sciatica due to a herniated disc for almost a year. Dr. Kerr's thorough analysis of my condition coupled with his successful background (and MANY high reviews) was a sure sign he was the right surgeon for me. Little did I know, that was just the tip of the iceberg. His bedside manner is like none other I have experienced. Confident, compassionate, thoughtful and responsive. I never once doubted he had my absolute best interest in mind - and hands-down the most accessible doctor I have known. After almost a year of Urgent Care, Emergency Room visits and a handful of various specialist the plan of action and surgical procedure Dr. Kerr recommended and provided has me 100% free of the excruciating sciatic pain I was in. I recommend Dr. Kerr without hesitation and am beyond grateful to have received his care and expertise. Jeannette D
Dr. Kerr performed a total knee replacement for me and he was extremely professional and knowledgeable. I was confidant of his abilities prior to surgery and couldn't be more pleased with the outcome. I healed far quicker than expected and am thrilled to recoup my active lifestyle. I highly recommend Dr. Kerr. Elaine P
Dr. Kerr did a great job on my Achilles tendon after first trying a non-surgical approach, just to make sure that he could be as conservative as possible -- the mark of a really fine surgeon, Next year he will also be working on my spine, and I am totally confident in going "under the knife" again. Mark V
Dr Kerr did an excellent job diagnosing and explaining the procedure to eliminate my severe low back nerve pain. He reviewed what the problem was, answered all questions and did a great job. The result was what he described it would be and I am now pain free! He comes highly recommended! Mark W
In July/Aug 2020 I went to Orthopedic Specialists of Seattle to see Dr. Kerr for back pain after physical therapy failed to help. X-rays and an MRI made it clear that my fall from a ladder 12 years ago likely caused damage in my neck leading to a significant amount of arthritis that had eaten away at two disks and the surrounding area, causing major deterioration and compression, which in turn was causing nerve pain running across my upper back, down both arms, and numbness in my hands. In September, after COVID settled down a bit, Dr. Kerr performed my ACDF (Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion) in day surgery. I was there about 10 hours and was a bit nervous after reading the worst of the possible side effects, but Dr. Kerr is a true professional and when I woke up after the surgery, despite being groggy, I had a smile on my face. It was actually considerably easier than my hip replacement surgery. Although I never experienced any neck pain following the surgery, I did continue to have expected upper back pain for the first week or two because the additional cushioning in the replacement grafts increased my height slightly, pulling on muscles, tendons and nerves in my back that had shrunk over the previous years due to a loss of 2" in my height from deterioration. To help alleviate the pain, I used a Theracane (a self massager I bought online years ago) to massage the sore spots and the pain disappeared. Although, I have to wear the cervical collar for 8 weeks, after two weeks out, I am aware that I no longer have radiating back, arm, or hand nerve pain and am able to do anything I want with a temporary weight limit of 30 lbs.
Thank you, Dr. Kerr, for sorting out my back issues! Who knew it was actually caused by my neck and that it could be fixed so easily! D Notes
I am happy to recommend Dr. Kerr's services! He is very compassionate and professional and works with you to get the appropriate treatment as soon as possible. He was a strong advocate for me when negotiating with insurance and was always responsive when I had questions or needed clarification. I was in horrible pain due to an advanced case of spinal stenosis, losing use of my left arm, and proceeded with tri-level ACDF surgery based on recommendation by Dr. Kerr. His advise was validated by multiple providers (internal medicine, occupational therapy, etc.), and I was able to go through with this difficult procedure and recovery with confidence that it was necessary. I am about 6-7 weeks out now and the operation has been a complete success thus far: the pains are gone, I am regaining functionality through physical therapy, and am healing on schedule! Excellent job by Dr. Kerr and Orthopedic Specialists of Seattle. Cheers! Jonathan P
Dr. Kerr is both thoughtful and thorough. He anticipates questions and describes options in laymen’s terms. Doug G
Dr. Kerr was amazing. I blew out my ankle on Christmas Day 2013 and Dr. Kerr fixed me. It was so bad that he couldn’t operate for 3 weeks due to fracture blisters and risk for infection. Dr. Kerr was confident that he would be able to fix my ankle and I would get back to all my recreational activities including running in due time. It has been 7 years since my accident and I am pain free. I can’t thank him enough! Chelsey B
I figured I should balance out some of the other reviews as they seem unreasonable and irrational. I had surgery about five weeks ago and the effectiveness of the surgery coupled with the care I received from Dr. Kerr and his team has been absolutely excellent. Dr. Kerr was compassionate and informative and walked me through some of the lifestyle changes accompanying this kind of injury. His staff is excellent as well and I can't speak highly enough about the overall experience I have had despite the traumatic accident that required this surgery from Dr. Kerr.
Additionally, Dr. Kerr has gone a step above and suggested a lifestyle adaptation as a result of my injury that has improved my health and welfare to better than prior to my accident. His coaching on this front has been first class and I'm thrilled that despite my injury, I can pursue improvements and physical health that I would not have without the professional counsel of Dr. Kerr. Ben
Dr Kerr, first of all, let me apologize for not writing this four years ago when you did my surgery. I just need to let you know how much I appreciate my new back. I know I really lucked out when I got you as my surgeon. You told me what was wrong and how you could fix it. And you did. My back is doing great. My knee is still doing okay after that series of shots and the brace. Thanks for all you did Myrna M
I have only very good praise for Dr. Kerr. The surgery he performed on my back was involved and successful with me walking the same day comfortably, home the next day. Will always be grateful. Cool guy, too. Regan D
Fantastic Dr. Neck fusion 3 cervical vertabre and very little pain no loss of head movement. Played softball in three months. He is very caring and would send friends to this man. Staci B
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