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Dr. Joel Virkler, DO

Dr. Joel Virkler, DO

Orthopedic Surgery*
15+ years of experience

Dr. Joel Virkler, DO is an orthopedic surgeon in Lafayette, IN and has over 15 years of experience in the medical field. Dr. Virkler has extensive experience in Shoulder & Upper Arm Surgery and Knee & Lower Limb Surgery. He graduated from A. T. Still University Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2009. He is affiliated with medical facilities such as Franciscan Health Lafayette East and Franciscan Health Rensselaer. He is accepting new patients.

4.9 Star Rating
Based on 29 reviews 4.9 Star Rating (29 reviews)

Practice

1411 S Creasy Ln Ste 120 Lafayette, IN 47905

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Dr. Virkler's Reviews

Likelihood to recommend Dr. Virkler

4.9
29 ratings, 23 with a written review
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He is very easy to talk to. Answers all questions & comments. Would love referral for Greenwood area, or appointment Indianapolis office?
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
SAleksa – May 18, 2024
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had a total reverse shoulder replacement
very good with the surgery and explaining what was done during the surgery
What went well
  • I felt respected
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Nov 14, 2023
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Dr Virkler is the best
I’m a former Team USA athlete and multiple time World and Pan American Medalist. From all of my years of training and competing, I’ve had my fair share of injuries. With the network and opportunity to work with some of the best sports doctors around, I choose Dr Virkler because he is one of the best and brightest. When looking for a surgeon you hope to find someone extremely good at what they do, as well as someone who will listen to you cared and concerns and will be extremely honest with you about what is best for your health. I’ve known Dr Virkler for over 20 years and He is one of the most caring and gifted surgeons that you could ever want in your time of need
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
5 others found this helpful
Helpful
C.Soto – Jul 30, 2022
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My husband had total hip replacement surgery October 23, 2018. Dr Virkler came highly recommended by our chiropractor and former patients. At our first meeting, Dr. Virkler was very thorough in explaining his options based on examination of the xray. He was also very patient answering questions. He prayed with him right before surgery which was a real blessing. His bedside manner was excellent. Dr Virkler is a gifted surgeon and a credit to his profession. I highly recommend him!
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
3 others found this helpful
Helpful
The Feltons in Rensselaer, IN – Jan 23, 2019
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After a couple years of periodic steroid injections, I had both my knees replaced by Dr. Virkler. Post-op, I was in the hospital for 3 days, inpatient rehab for 4, walking without assistive device by day 7, driving in 2 weeks, back to work in 1 month. Dr. Virkler did a great job, had an excellent bedside manner - didn't seem rushed, impatient, or like he was talking down to a patient. At first, I wasn't sure about doing both knees at once, but after discussion with him, I felt that was the best
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
3 others found this helpful
Helpful
Lafayette, IN – Jan 20, 2019
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Dr. Virkler was amazing. He performed bilateral anterior hip replacement in May. I was riding my bike in August. No hip pain anymore. Hip, hip hooray!
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
3 others found this helpful
Helpful
Susan in Logansport , IN – Sep 19, 2018
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Dr. Virkler is the greatest! I had total hip replacement and he recommended anterior surgery. Explained everything throughly, answered all my concerns. Recovery time ....Awesome! Highly Recommend! Staff is exceptional also!
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
3 others found this helpful
Helpful
Cindy Ledyard in Monon – Jul 13, 2018
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Dr. Virkler did a bilateral knee replacement for me in Jan. 2018. Three months later I am back to riding my bicycle pain free and am able to resume all of my activities without the pain that I experienced on a daily basis before the surgery. Dr. Virkler was very attentive to my personal needs. I was prescribed therapy before and after surgery to facilitate full healing. I would recommend Dr. Virkler to anyone who would need his services.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
2 others found this helpful
Helpful
Germaine Schenk in Rensselaer, IN – Apr 26, 2018
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Dr. Virkler recently replaced my hip and I can't express how wonderful he and the entire staff has been. I would highly recommend Him.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Dean A Huddleston in Frankfort, IN – Apr 26, 2018
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For all those who find themselves in need of a total hip replacement; I highly recommend Dr. Joel Virkler at Lafayette Orthopedics, Unity surgical center. Dr. Virkler, who uses the anterior surgical approach, allows for much shorter recooperation with less physical therapy. At six weeks, I was released with wonderful results. My pilot guide is the Lord, I disovered he is Dr. Virklers as well. He prayed for me, and himself just before surgery. I am so grateful, and thankful for this.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Sandra Dunbar in Clarks Hill, IN – Mar 09, 2018
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I spent 2.5 years with knee pain that had curtailed my activity. I saw Dr. Virkler for evaluation for a total knee replacement. He was very patient and took his time explaining my condition and recommending a total knee replacement. He answered all my questions and concerns about the procedure. I felt he was genuinely concerned about me. On the day of surgery, he asked if he could pray with me before the procedure, and that was very comforting. I highly recommend Dr. Virkler.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
West Lafayette – Jan 23, 2018
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Replaced both knees im finally pain free and I can do things again that I couldn't do for a long time because of my two bad knees. He guinunie cares, we prayed before each surgery that brought about a peace and calmness to me better than any pre opp medication. I did my knees 90 days apart and it worked out great for me. Thank you Doctor Virkler for giving my life back now I can go for walks again with my wife we are both so happy and also your nurse is just Awesome she made things easier too.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
1 other person found this helpful
Helpful
Steven Tolbert in FLORA – Jan 11, 2018
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I suffered a rupture of my Achilles in August. Dr. Virkler handled my case from the beginning and was terrific. He was available at all hours to provide advice/coordinate care in emergent situations leading up to the surgery. He provided a correct assessment of the tear and recommended immediate surgery. His office handled all of the insurance issues in a quick and efficient manner which allowed me to have the surgery without delay. The surgery was successful and my recovery has been moving
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
West Lafayette, IN – Nov 28, 2017
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I had 15 years of hip pain and was referred to Dr. Virkler. He recommended anterior hip surgery. Upon completion of surgery, I was told there would be 8 weeks recovery time and 12 weeks to full recovery. At the end of the 3rd week of surgery, I was able to mow yard with a push mower (carefully). At 4 weeks I was walking 3 plus miles a day. At the end of 8 weeks I was walking 5 miles with minimal issues. I was totally released at 12 weeks with zero pain issues with the repaired hip.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Marvin Wilder in Lafayette, IN – Aug 25, 2017
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Dr. Virkler performed the surgery for my total knee replacement. At my initial appointment He spent time educating me about the procedure, recovery, and answering my questions. After a successful surgery, I went home the next day, but not before he talked with me about pain level, general overall feelings, medical devices to assist in recovery, and physical therapy. Throughout the process, Dr. Virkler treated me as if I was the most important patient. He was compassionate & caring.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
1 other person found this helpful
Helpful
West Lafayette, IN – Aug 12, 2017
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Dr. Virkler performed a hip replacement for me. Everything went well and I was back to work sooner than expected. I would recommend Dr. Virkler for anyone needing hip replacement surgery.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
Helpful
Barbara Sense in Lafayette, IN – Jul 18, 2017
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Dr. Virkler did a partial knee replacement on my right knee he did a fantastic job!!!! Less then 4 weeks I am back to work. My recovery was fast and pain very minimal. All my office visits were great his nurse was very caring along with all the office personnel.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
No results
1 other person found this helpful
Helpful
Brad Hubert in Frankfort, IN – Aug 19, 2016
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I Would highly recommend Dr. Virkler. He is compassionate, caring, knowledgeable, empathetic, professional and a great listener. He is God fearing and always wants the best for his patients. We really appreciate your prayers and kindness!!
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
3 others found this helpful
Helpful
Mary .A in West Lafayette, IN – Jul 08, 2016
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Surgery and recovery were excellent with the only problem being my body's tolerance to some pain medications. My pain level was very low and pain medication probably could have been too. Minimal scar and I can walk pain free again after my right hip joint replacement. Jeanette
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
1 other person found this helpful
Helpful
Jeanette R Kasten in Francesville, IN – Mar 17, 2016
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Dr. Virkler was always very attentive and listened to what I had to say. Was very concerned and even checked on me over the weekend.
What went well
  • Office environment
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
  • Wait times
What could be improved
No results
2 others found this helpful
Helpful
Debbie in Crawfordsville, IN – Mar 02, 2016
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About Me

care philosophy

As an osteopathic physician, my goal is to treat you like my own family and empower you to make educated decisions regarding your care. I truly mean that and look forward to walking through the healing process with you. I love seeing people return...read more

biography

Thank you for your interest and taking the time to learn about my practice. I am an Orthopedic Surgeon at Lafayette Orthopaedic Clinic, a Unity Healthcare partner.

I grew up in Remington, Indiana, and I practice in both Lafayette...
read more
  • Orthopedic Surgery

  • Hip & Knee Orthopedics

  • Orthopedic Shoulder & Elbow Surgery

  • Orthopedic Sports Medicine

  • Reconstructive Orthopedic Surgery

  • Orthopedics

*Healthgrades does not verify qualifications for medical specialties. Please verify your provider's specialty and qualifications directly with your provider and applicable medical board.

  • Triangle Orthopaedic Associates, P.a.

    Fellowship Hospital, 2015
  • Botsford General Hospital

    Residency Hospital, 2014
  • Botsford General Hospital

    Internship Hospital, 2010
  • A. T. Still University Kirksville College Of Osteopathic Medicine

    Medical School, 2009
  • Purdue University

    Undergraduate School, 2005
  • Purdue University / Main Campus

    Undergraduate School, 2005
American Osteopathic Association®
American Osteopathic Board of Orthopedic Surgery®
Orthopedic Surgery
For detailed information about any of the below board actions, please search for the provider's records on the linked state licensing board or the Federation of State Medical Boards. To learn more about the difference between these sources, please refer to our FAQs.
Healthgrades has not received any data indicating a board action exists for this provider.

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Locations

Practice

Unity Healthcare LLC1411 S Creasy Ln Ste 120 Lafayette, IN 47905
1

Practice

Unity Surgical Center1411 S Creasy Ln Ste 200 Lafayette, IN 47905
2

Practice

Northwest Surgery Center LLC8450 Northwest Blvd Indianapolis, IN 46278
3