John Matthews MD
Orthopedist
3420 S Mercy Rd Suite 200 Gilbert AZ, 85297About
Dr. John Matthews is a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in sports medicine at Dignity Health Medical Group Orthopedics and Sports Medicine – Mercy Gilbert. He is renowned for treating both non-operative and operative sports injuries using advanced techniques, including minimally invasive arthroscopic procedures for the shoulder, elbow, hip, knee, and ankle. Dr. Matthews is also skilled in ultrasound-guided injections and performs specialized surgeries such as ACL reconstruction, Tommy John surgery, and meniscal and cartilage repairs. His expertise and personalized care have earned him a reputation as a leading orthopedic surgeon in Arizona. Born in Iran and raised in Tucson, Arizona, Dr. Matthews is fluent in English and Persian. Outside of his practice, he enjoys carpentry, home remodeling, snowboarding, and traveling to mountain cabins.
Education and Training
University of Arizona MD 2015
University of Arizona Bachelor of Science ; Major in Physiology/ Minors in Business and Chemistry 2011
Rothman Institute Sports Fellowship 2020
Board Certification
American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery
Provider Details
John Matthews MD's Expert Contributions
The Promise and Challenges of Holistic Medicine in Orthopedic Surgery: Balancing Anecdotes with Scientific Evidence
By: John Reza Matthews, MDDepartment of Orthopedic SurgeryFaculty SurgeonDignity Health, ArizonaIntroduction:In recent years, holistic medicine has gained attention as an alternative approach to traditional orthopedic surgery. This emerging field aims to treat musculoskeletal injuries by considering...
The Top 10 Most Common Orthopedic Injuries: Understanding Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Outcomes
Orthopedic injuries can be painful and debilitating, and they can occur at any age. Some of the most common orthopedic injuries include fractures, dislocations, strains, and sprains. In this article, we'll discuss the top 10 most common orthopedic injuries, including their epidemiology, etiology,...
What type of massage is best for arthritis?
While massage therapy can be helpful for managing arthritis symptoms, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. Different types of massage may be more beneficial for different people and their specific types of arthritis. That being said, some types of massage that may be helpful for knee arthritis include Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, and myofascial release. It's important to consult with a licensed massage therapist to determine the best course of action for your individual needs. In addition to massage, other treatment options for knee arthritis may include exercise, physical therapy, medications, and in some cases, surgery. READ MORE
What is the best way to get rid of neck pain?
There are several ways to treat neck pain, depending on the cause and severity of the pain. Here are a few options: Rest and ice: If the pain is due to a strain or sprain, rest and applying ice to the affected area can help reduce inflammation and pain. Over-the-counter pain relievers: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. Physical therapy: A physical therapist can work with you to develop a specific exercise program to help relieve pain, strengthen muscles, and improve flexibility. Massage therapy: Massage can help improve blood flow and reduce tension in the neck muscles, which can help alleviate pain. Heat therapy: Applying heat to the affected area can help reduce muscle tension and alleviate pain. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause of your neck pain and the most appropriate treatment plan for your individual needs. READ MORE
How can I get rid of my hip pain?
If you are experiencing hip pain, it is always recommended to see a doctor, especially if the pain is severe or interfering with your daily activities. The doctor can conduct a physical examination, obtain medical history, and order imaging tests if necessary to determine the underlying cause of the pain. Treatment options will depend on the specific cause, but may include rest, physical therapy, medications, injections, or in some cases, surgery. READ MORE
What exercises should I avoid with neck pain?
If you have neck pain, there are certain exercises you should avoid to prevent further injury or aggravation. Here are some exercises to avoid: Heavy lifting or weightlifting: This puts a lot of strain on the neck and can worsen pain or lead to injury. Overhead exercises: This includes exercises such as overhead presses, pull-downs, or pull-ups, which can strain the neck muscles and exacerbate pain. High-impact exercises: Activities that involve a lot of jumping or bouncing, such as running or high-intensity interval training, can also aggravate neck pain. Crunches or sit-ups: These exercises put pressure on the neck and can cause pain, especially if not performed correctly. It's important to listen to your body and avoid any exercises that cause pain or discomfort. If you have persistent neck pain, numbness/paresthesias, or pain shooting down the arm it's a good idea to consult with a medical professional to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment plan. READ MORE
Is back surgery for scoliosis worth it?
As an orthopedic surgeon, I would say that the decision to have surgery for scoliosis depends on several factors, including the severity of the scoliosis, the patient's age, and the potential risks and benefits of the surgery. In many cases, nonsurgical treatments such as bracing and physical therapy can be effective in managing scoliosis. However, if the scoliosis is severe and causing significant pain or affecting organ function, surgery may be necessary. It's important to discuss all of your options with your doctor and make an informed decision based on your individual circumstances. READ MORE
When should I worry about knee swelling?
If your knee is swollen, it's a sign of inflammation, which could be due to a variety of reasons, such as injury, infection, or an underlying medical condition. If you sustained an injury or the swelling is accompanied by severe pain, difficulty bearing weight, or a feeling of instability, you should see a doctor. If the swelling is not severe and there is no other alarming symptom, you may try some at-home treatments, such as resting the affected knee, applying ice packs, and keeping the leg elevated. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen may also help alleviate pain and swelling. However, it's still recommended that you see a doctor to determine the underlying cause of the swelling and to get appropriate treatment. READ MORE
Can knee injuries heal on their own?
It depends on the severity and type of injury. Minor knee injuries such as strains or sprains may heal on their own with rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) and over-the-counter pain medication. However, more severe injuries such as tears to the ligaments or cartilage may require medical intervention such as physical therapy, injections, or surgery. It is always best to consult with a medical professional to determine the best course of treatment for your specific injury. READ MORE
Is acupuncture effective for a sprained knee?
Acupuncture may be a helpful treatment option for a sprained knee, as it can help reduce pain and inflammation. However, it's important to note that acupuncture should be used in conjunction with other treatments, such as rest, ice, compression, and elevation. It's also important to consult with a medical professional before starting any new treatment regimen to determine the appropriate diagnosis and treatment modalities. READ MORE
Can a brace fix kyphosis?
A brace can be used to treat kyphosis, but it depends on the severity of the condition as well as age of treatment. Braces are typically used for mild to moderate cases of kyphosis, and are not effective for severe cases. Bracing can help to improve posture and prevent further progression of the condition. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best treatment approach for your individual case. They may recommend a combination of bracing, physical therapy, and other interventions to address your kyphosis. READ MORE
What helps pain after patella surgery?
Hi, after patella surgery pain is a common issue that many patients experience. Here are some suggestions to help manage pain after patella surgery: Follow your surgeon's pain management plan, which may include prescription pain medication, over-the-counter pain relievers, or a combination of both. Ice the affected area for 20 minutes at a time, several times a day, to reduce swelling and pain. Elevate your leg to help reduce swelling and pain. Follow your physical therapy plan to help improve strength and mobility, which can also help reduce pain. Try relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation, to help manage pain and reduce stress. It's important to keep your surgeon informed of your pain levels and any changes in your symptoms, so they can adjust your treatment plan as needed. READ MORE
How successful is knee joint replacement surgery?
Hi, knee joint replacement surgery is generally considered a highly successful procedure for individuals who have severe knee pain and limited mobility due to arthritis or other conditions affecting the knee joint. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, more than 90% of people who undergo knee replacement surgery experience a significant reduction in pain and improvement in knee function. However, the success of the procedure can depend on a variety of factors, including the patient's age, overall health, and extent of knee damage. It is important to discuss the potential risks and benefits of knee joint replacement surgery with your orthopedic surgeon to determine if it is the best option for you. READ MORE
About knock knee
Hello Ayobami, Thank you for reaching out. Knock knees, also known as genu valgum, is a common condition where the knees touch but the ankles do not when standing straight with the feet together. The cause of knock knees can vary and can be due to genetics, developmental issues, or injury. In terms of treatment options for your child's knock knees, it is important to first have your child evaluated by an orthopedic specialist to determine the underlying cause and severity of the condition. Depending on the evaluation, the specialist may recommend observation, bracing, physical therapy, or surgery. It is also important to note that knock knees can often improve on their own with time and growth, especially if the underlying cause is developmental. Encouraging your child to stay active and maintain a healthy weight can also help to alleviate any discomfort or pain associated with the condition. I would recommend making an appointment with an orthopedic specialist to discuss your child's knock knees further and to determine the best course of action. READ MORE
How many chiropractic sessions do I need for posture?
I would recommend that you see a physical therapist or a specialist in rehabilitation medicine for posture correction. While chiropractic care can be helpful having a multi-disciplinary team would provide the most benefit. The number of sessions needed to correct your posture will depend on various factors such as the severity of your condition, your commitment to the treatment plan, and your overall health. Your therapist will be able to develop a personalized treatment plan that includes exercises, stretches, and other interventions to help improve your posture. READ MORE
How can I fix my daughter's bad posture?
Sure! Here are some tips for correcting your daughter's bad posture: Encourage her to sit up straight: Sitting with her back straight and her shoulders back is a great way to start improving her posture. Remind her to keep her feet flat on the floor and avoid slouching. Use a posture corrector: You can consider purchasing a posture corrector device to help your daughter maintain good posture. These can be worn under clothing and are designed to help keep the back straight. Exercise: Encourage your daughter to exercise regularly, focusing on exercises that help to strengthen the back muscles. Good exercises for improving posture include yoga, pilates, and weight training. Avoid sitting for long periods: Sitting for long periods of time can be bad for posture. Encourage your daughter to take breaks from sitting and stretch her legs and back regularly. Visit a physical therapist: If your daughter's posture is very poor, you may want to consider taking her to a physical therapist who can provide specific exercises and stretches to help improve her posture. READ MORE
Areas of expertise and specialization
Faculty Titles & Positions
- Faculty Orthopedic Sports Medicine Surgeon Dignity Health Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Institute 2021 - Present
Awards
- Top Doctor Award for Gilbert, Arizona 2022
- AANA Resident Scholarship Award 2020
- Inaugural Kaleida Health and ECMCC Resident Incentive Award 2019
- Inaugural Kaleida Health and ECMCC Resident Incentive Award 2018
- Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society – University of Arizona COM Year 2014-Present
- Samuel Canterman Scholarship - University of Arizona COM 2013
- Voight Hans and Julia Scholarship - University of Arizona COM 2012
- Schuele Scholarship - University of Arizona COM 2011
- Medical Award of Excellence Grant - University of Arizona COM Year 2011-2014
- Honorable Mention - University of Arizona Year 2007-2010
- Dean’s List with Distinction Year 2008-2010
- Academic Year Highest Academic Distinction 2010
- Regents High Honor Tuition Scholarship Year 2007-2011
Professional Memberships
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
- American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine
- Arthroscopy Association of North America
Fellowships
- Thomas Jefferson Rothman Institute Orthopaedic Sports Medicine 2021
Internships
- University of Buffalo - SUNY
Fellowships
- Thomas Jefferson Rothman Institute2021Orthopaedic Sports Medicine
Professional Society Memberships
- AOSSM, AAOS, AANA
Professional Affiliations
- AAOS, AOSSM, AANA
Articles and Publications
- An Up-to-Date Review of the Meniscus Literature: A Systematic Summary of Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses: Jason B. Smoak, Amrit V. Vinod, Melissa A. Kluczynski, Leslie J. Bisson, John Reza Matth
- The influence of suture materials on the biomechanical behavior of suture-meniscal specimens: a comparative study in a porcine model. John Reza Matthews, Jiefei Wang, Jiwei Zhao, Melissa A. Kluczynsk
- Association Between Bone Marrow Lesions, Chondral Lesions, and Pain in Patients Without Radiographic Evidence of Degenerative Joint Disease Who Underwent Arthroscopic Partial Meniscectomy. Leslie J.
- Compartment Syndrome After Isolated Closed Transverse Fibular Shaft Fracture. John Reza Matthews, Christopher Mutty
What do you attribute your success to?
- His passion for Medicine.
Areas of research
PEER REVIEWED PUBLICATIONS:
Matthews JR, Sonnier J, Otlans P, Paul R, Freedman, K. Management of Unstable OCD lesions. Systematic Review. Status: Accepted to The Physician and Sports medicine May 2022. DOI: 10.1080/00913847.2022.2082262
Matthews JR, Brutico J, Freedman K, Tucker B, Tjoumakaris F. Comparison of Clinical Outcomes Following
Osteochondral Allograft Transplantation for Osteochondral vs Chondral Defects in the Knee.
Knee Surgery and Related Research, 2022 May 4. DOI: 10.1186/s43019-022-00149-z
Matthews JR, Sonnier JH, Prodoehl JP, Saucedo ST, Avendano JP, Johns W, Freedman KB, Ciccotti MG, Cohen SB. Distal Hamstring Muscle Injuries. JBJS Rev. 2022 Mar 3;10(3). DOI: 10.2106/JBJS.RVW.21.00215
Matthews JR, Paul RW, Freedman KB. Patellar MACI with Tibial Tubercle Osteotomy. Video Journal of Sports Medicine. 2022 January 11. DOI: 10.1177/26350254211053013.
Matthews JR, Paul RW, Freedman KB. Distal Triceps Tendon Injury. Video Journal of Sports Medicine. 2022 January 6. DOI: 10.1177/26350254211044504
Matthews JR, Brutico J, Freedman K, Tucker B, Tjoumakaris F. Differences in Clinical and Functional
Outcomes Between Osteochondral Allograft Transplantation and Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation when
used in the Treatment of Focal Grade 3 and Grade 4 Articular Cartilage Defects. Orthopaedic Journal of Sports
Medicine. August 2021.
Matthews JR., Sommer H. Posterior Oblique Radial Lateral Meniscus Tear. VuMedi August 2021.
Matthews JR., Sommer H. Meniscal Root Tears. Video Journal of Sports Medicine May 2021. DOI: 10.1177/26350254211044513
Matthews JR., Cohen S. Slap Lesions. Video Journal of Sports Medicine May 2021.
DOI: 10.1177/2635025421000754
Del Prince C, Matthews JR, Phillips M. Delayed Arterial Occlusion Following Primary Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Case Report and Review of the Literature. Case Reports in Orthopedic Research. January 2021.
Smoak J, Matthews JR, Vinod A, Kluczynski M, Bisson L. A Systematic Summary of Systematic Reviews on the Topic of the Meniscus. Orthopaedic Journal of Sports Medicine. September 2020.
Matthews JR, Wang J, Zhao J, Kluczynski M, Bisson LJ. The Influence of Suture Material on the Biomechanical Behavior of Suture-Meniscal Root Specimens: A Comparative Study in a Porcine Model. Knee Surgery and Related Research. August 2020
Matthews JR, Wind W. Bilateral Simultaneous Distal Biceps Rupture With Staged Primary Repair: A Case Report. Clinical Medicine International Library. May 2020. DOI:10.23937/2469-5718/1510163
Matthews JR, Mutty C. Compartment Syndrome Following Isolated Closed Transverse Fibula Shaft Fracture. Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. November 2018.
Jancuska JM, Matthews JR, Miller TC, Kluczynski MA, Bisson LJ. A Systematic Summary of Systematic Reviews on the Topic of the Rotator Cuff. Orthopaedic Journal of Sports Medicine. September 2018.
Bisson LJ, Phillips P, Matthews JR, Zhou Z, Zhao J, Wind WM, Fineberg MS, Bernas GA, Rauh MA, Marzo JM, Kluczynski MA. The Association Between Bone Marrow Lesions, Chondral Lesions, and Pain in Patients without Radiographic Evidence of Degenerative Joint Disease Who Underwent Arthroscopic Partial Meniscectomy. American Journal of Sports Medicine. 2018.
Brown MJ, Matthews JR, Bayers-Thering MT, Phillips MJ, Krackow KA. Low Incidence of Postoperative Complications with Navigated Total Knee Arthroplasty. The Journal of Arthroplasty. March 2017;32(7):2120-2126.
Matthews JR, Harrison CM, Hughes TM, Dezfuli B, Sheppard J. Web Page Content and Quality Assessed for Shoulder Replacement. American Journal of Orthopaedics. (Belle Mead NJ). 2016;45(1):E20-26.
Matthews JR, Margolis DS, Wu E, Truchan LM. Brachial Plexopathy Following Use of Recombinant Human Bone Morphogenetic Protein-2 for Treatment of Atrophic Nonunion of the Clavicle. Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery. 2015;5(3);e81.DOI: 10.2106/JBJS.CC.N.00187
BOOK CHAPTERS:
Duquin TR, Matthews JR. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Instructional Course Lecture. April 2018. When You’re Running Out of Room: Managing Humeral and Glenoid Bone Loss in Shoulder Arthroplasty.
Matthews JR, Boyle KK. (2017) Orthopaedic Surgery Clerkship. Eltorai AE, Eberson CP, Daniels AH (Eds). Elbow Dislocation. (p 109-113). Philadelphia, Springer International Publishing.
Matthews JR, Boyle KK. (2017) Orthopaedic Surgery Clerkship. Eltorai AE, Eberson CP, Daniels AH (Eds). Tennis and Golfer’s Elbow: Epicondylitis. (p 87-90). Philadelphia, Springer International Publishing.
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Specializing in Sports Injuries, Advanced Minimally Invasive Surgical Techniques, and Comprehensive Patient Care
Gilbert, Arizona – Dignity Health Medical Group Orthopedics and Sports Medicine – Mercy Gilbert is pleased to announce the continued dedication of John Matthews, MD, a highly regarded orthopedic sports medicine surgeon. Dr. Matthews brings a wealth of experience and expertise in treating nonoperative and operative sports injuries, enhancing the medical group’s commitment to providing exceptional care to athletes and active individuals in the community.
Dr. Matthews is credentialed and approved to perform surgical procedures at several prestigious facilities, including Chandler Regional Medical Center, Mercy Gilbert Medical Center, Arizona Speciality Hospital, St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center, and Yavapai Regional Medical Center (East and West). His extensive skill set encompasses a variety of advanced orthopedic procedures pertaining to the shoulder, elbow, hip, knee and ankle. Dr. Matthews specializes in minimally invasive arthroscopic surgical procedures addressing bone, tendon, ligament, cartilage, meniscus, and labrum injuries. His dedication to cutting-edge techniques and personalized care has earned him a reputation as one of the leading orthopedic surgeons in the region. He is also proficient in ultrasound-guided injections for the shoulder, elbow, hip, knee, and ankle.
Born in Iran and raised in Tucson, Arizona, Dr. Matthews has an impressive educational background. He earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Physiology, with minors in Business and Chemistry from the University of Arizona, where he was named to the Dean’s List with Distinction. He later obtained his Medical Degree from the University of Arizona College of Medicine – Tucson, receiving the Medical Award of Excellence Grant and multiple scholarships. Dr. Matthews was inducted into the prestigious Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society for his outstanding academic performance.
Following his medical education, Dr. Matthews completed his orthopedic surgery residency at the University of Buffalo – SUNY, where he was awarded the Kaleida Health and AANA Resident Scholarship Awards and served as the assistant team doctor for various Division 1 sports teams. He further honed his skills during a fellowship in orthopedic sports surgery at the renowned Thomas Jefferson Rothman Institute in Philadelphia, where he gained invaluable experience as an assistant team physician for the Philadelphia Eagles, Phillies, Flyers, and Saint Joseph’s University Division 1 team coverage.
Dr. Matthews is an active member of several professional organizations, including the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, the American Orthopedic Society for Sports Medicine, and the Arthroscopy Association of North America. He has authored multiple publications and delivered presentations on orthopedic sports surgery at national conferences.
Throughout his medical career, Dr. Matthews has received numerous accolades, including being named a Top Doctor for Gilbert, Arizona, in 2022. His dedication to excellence is further highlighted by awards such as the Medical Award of Excellence Grant from 2011-2014 and his consistent recognition on the Dean’s List during his undergraduate studies.
Outside of his medical practice, Dr. Matthews enjoys carpentry, home remodeling, traveling, snowboarding, and acting. He is fluent in both English and Persian and has a personal passion for vacationing in mountain cabins.
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