Joel Wells

Dr. Joel Wells is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery at UT Southwestern Medical Center. He serves as a comprehensive hip surgeon at UT Southwestern's Orthopaedic Surgery Clinic and sees patients at the Sports Medicine Clinic at Richardson/Plano.

Dr. Wells received his medical education and training through a distinguished path:

• Medical Degree: Tulane University
• Surgical Internship: Brigham and Women's Hospital
• Orthopaedic Surgery Residency: Harvard Orthopaedics and Massachusetts General Hospital
• Fellowship: Washington University in St. Louis (specializing in joint preservation, resurfacing, and reconstructive surgery)

Dr. Wells specializes in hip surgery with a particular focus on preservation techniques and reconstruction. His clinical expertise encompasses a wide range of hip conditions including hip dysplasia, femoroacetabular impingement, and various sports-related hip injuries. He advocates for hip preservation as a first approach before considering reconstruction when necessary.

As a specialist in orthopaedic surgery, Dr. Wells is particularly knowledgeable about conditions such as acetabular dysplasia, avascular necrosis, labral tears, and osteonecrosis. His practice integrates both surgical and nonsurgical approaches to hip care, with an emphasis on minimally invasive techniques when appropriate.

Dr. Wells has received several prestigious awards recognizing his clinical excellence and research contributions:

• Leaders in Clinical Excellence Patient and Family Recognition Award (2020)
• Abilene Christian University Young Alumnus of the Year Award (2020)
• Harvard Orthopaedic Surgery Best Clinical Research Award for work on hip dysplasia

Dr. Wells is actively involved in clinical research, particularly focused on hip preservation techniques and outcomes. His research on the survivorship of the Bernese Periacetabular Osteotomy has contributed significantly to the understanding of long-term outcomes in hip dysplasia treatment. He participates in various clinical studies through UT Southwestern's research programs.

As part of the comprehensive orthopaedic team at UT Southwestern, Dr. Wells collaborates with specialists in physical medicine and rehabilitation, sports medicine, and other orthopaedic subspecialties to provide integrated care for patients with complex hip conditions.