FAQs

No, a referral is not required, though most of Dr. Wodicka's patients arrive by referral from another physician. His sports medicine practice in Fort Lauderdale also accepts direct patient inquiries; call the office to schedule either way.

Sports medicine orthopedics focuses on injuries of the muscles, tendons, ligaments, and joints, most often in the shoulder, hip, and knee. Dr. Wodicka's practice includes arthroscopic surgery, rotator cuff repair, total and reverse shoulder replacement, hip and knee joint injections, cortisone injections, and fracture care.

Most people don't need surgery right away. Non-surgical options such as cortisone injections or hip and knee joint injections are often tried first, and surgery becomes part of the conversation when those measures no longer control symptoms or when the injury itself requires repair. Your evaluation will determine which path fits your situation. Dr. Wodicka completed fellowship training in sports medicine at the Southern California Orthopedic Institute, training that shapes how he evaluates shoulder and knee injuries before recommending surgery.

The difference is where the ball and socket of the joint are positioned. A total shoulder replacement places an artificial ball on the upper arm bone and a socket on the shoulder blade, matching the joint's natural anatomy; a reverse shoulder replacement switches those positions, so the shoulder muscles that still work can do more of the lifting when the rotator cuff is damaged beyond repair. Dr. Wodicka performs both procedures and will explain which anatomy fits your case.

Bring a photo ID, your insurance card, a list of current medications, and any imaging, reports, or referral paperwork related to your injury. If another physician referred you, bringing their notes helps Dr. Wodicka pick up the evaluation where your referring doctor left off.

Yes, his practice status is Accepting new patients, for both referred and self-scheduled visits at the Fort Lauderdale office.

Insurance verification happens directly with the office. Call ahead of your visit and the scheduling team will confirm your plan's coverage and any referral requirements before your appointment.

Most patients resume normal activity the same day, with some soreness at the injection site for a day or two. Dr. Wodicka's office will give you specific aftercare instructions based on which joint was treated and why the injection was given. This information is educational and does not replace a medical evaluation. Contact Dr. Wodicka's office to discuss your specific situation.