Joseph X. Kou, M.D.
Dr. Kou is among the best-trained orthopedic foot and ankle surgeons in the country. He has advanced training in forefoot, hindfoot, and ankle reconstructive surgery, and has been in the field for more than 10 years. Dr. Kou also has a special interest in deformity correction, such as flat feet, post traumatic deformity, and bunions.
He utilizes the latest technologically advanced surgical procedures in the treatment of lower extremity deformities and degenerative conditions. He is formally trained on STAR total ankle replacement, and has extensive experience with the procedure. Orthopedic Surgery is an ever-changing field and the advances in foot and ankle care materials and technology have dramatically changed the way most Orthopedic Surgeons practice.
Dr. Kou comes to Muir Orthopaedic Specialists following a fellowship in foot and ankle reconstruction at Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York, NY. Dr. Kou earned his Medical Degree from Wayne State University School of Medicine in Detroit, Michigan.
He served his residency in Orthopedic Surgery at one of the busiest orthopedic centers in the country, William Beaumont Hospital in Royal Oak, Michigan. He is a member of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons and the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society. His research results have been published and presented at several orthopedic conferences.
My Approach to Treatment
As an orthopedic foot and ankle doctor, patient care, clear communication and education are of utmost importance to provide, you, the patient, the ability to make informed decisions regarding treatment of an orthopedic condition. I believe that the fundamental relationship between the doctor and patient be based on trust and a mutual understanding of the road to recovery.
I believe in meeting patients’ individual needs through comprehensive evaluation and treatment designed to help them achieve an active, pain-free lifestyle.
Your health and the quality of orthopedic care you receive are my top priorities. I am proud of the excellent and comprehensive care that our group of orthopedic surgeons offer the community, and I strive to provide outstanding and timely orthopedic care while encouraging patients to take an active role in the process.
As an experienced physician, my compassionate patient care is focused on the individual patient’s needs and based upon evidence-based orthopedic principles, delivered with honest and innovative approaches.
I take a team approach to caring for my patients. The orthopedic team at Muir Orthopedic Specialist includes surgeons, therapists, physician assistants, nurses and supporting health care staff members. As a patient in our care, you have access to our entire network of physicians and surgeons at MOS.
Meet Dr. Kou(A John Muir Health Network video) |
Fusion vs. STAR ankle replacement
STAR surgical technique
Curriculum Vitae
GROUP AFFILIATION:
Muir Orthopaedic Specialists
OFFICE LOCATIONS:
2405 Shadelands Drive
Walnut Creek, CA 94598
5201 Norris Canyon Rd #300
San Ramon, CA 94583
EMPLOYMENT:
2008 – Present – Muir Orthopaedic Specialists, Orthopedic Surgeon
BOARD CERTIFICATION:
American Board of Orthopaedic Surgeons – Board Certified
EDUCATION:
2007 – 2008 – Fellowship in Foot and Ankle Reconstruction, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, New York
2002 – 2007 – Residency in Orthopaedic Surgery, William Beaumont Hospital, Royal Oak, Michigan
1998 – 2002 – Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, Doctor of Medicine
1994 – 1998 – University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, B.S. in Biochemistry
RESEARCH:
Kou J. AAOS Clinical Practice Guideline: Acute Achilles Tendon Rupture. J Am Acad Orthop Surg August 2010 ; 18:511-513.
Kou J, Fortin PT. Commonly Missed Peritalar Injuries. J Am Acad Orthop Surg. 2009 Dec;17(12):775-86.
Kou J, Fortin PT. Balasubramaniam M, Kippe M. Functional Results of Posterior Tibial Tendon Reconstruction, Calcaneal Ostetomy, and Gastrocnemius Recession: A Prospective Study. Foot Ankle Int. 2012 July; 33(7):598-60.
Irwin T, Kou J, Fortin P. Classification and Treatment of Severe Ankle Articular Segment Deficits: Osteochondral Allograft Reconstruction. Foot Ankle Clin. 2007 Mar;12(1):41-55.
Kou J. Weinfeld S. Tibiotalocalcaneal Nailing: Indications and Technique. Techniques in Foot & Ankle Surgery. 8(3):126-133, September 2009.
Gates ME, Kou JX, Demetropoulos CK, Jurist KA, Guettler JH. Effects of zone-specific superior labral detachment on biceps anchor stability. Am J Sports Med. 2009 Dec; 37(12):2445-50
Kou J, Fischgrund J, Biddinger A, Herkowitz H. Risk Factors for Spinal Epidural Hematoma After Spinal Surgery. Spine 2002; 27: 1670-1673.
ACHIEVEMENTS:
Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Honor Society – Elected to Wayne State University chapter in September, 2001







