Clay Wellborn, M.D.

Dr. Clay Wellborn Orthopedic Surgeon

Dr. Clay Wellborn Orthopaedc Surgeon at Nirschl Orthopaedic Center completed his undergraduate degree at the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill, where he lettered all four years in swimming. He obtained his medical degree from Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons in New York. He completed his residency at George Washington University in Washington, DC, where he was Chief Resident. After nearly 10 years in practice in Santa Barbara, California, he returned to the DC area in 2007. Dr. Wellborn has wide experience in arthroscopic surgery, sports medicine and joint replacement. He enjoys spending time educating his patients so they can be active and informed participants in their treatment. He specializes in joint reconstruction of the hip, knee, and shoulder. He is trained in the modern techniques of minimally invasive, rapid recovery surgery, including outpatient joint replacement. Dr. Wellborn has worked with high school and college athletes for over 15 years as a team physician. He is the current Chairman of the Department of Orthopedic Surgery at Virginia Hospital Center.

EDUCATION

  • B.S. University of North Carolina
  • MD, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York

RESIDENCY

  • Orthopaedic Surgery, George Washington University, Washington DC

BOARD CERTIFICATION

  • American Board of Orthopedic Surgeons

PROFESSIONAL DISTINCTIONS

  • Voted one of the “Top Doctors” in Washington Magazine and Northern Virginia Magazine
  • Voted by Patients Choice as one of the area’s most compassionate doctors
  • Chairman of Department of Orthopedic Surgery at Virginia Hospital Center
  • Fellow, American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
  • Member of American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons
  • Member of Eastern Orthopaedic Society
  • Member, Virginia Orthopaedic Society

AREAS OF TREATMENT

  • Arthroscopic Surgery
  • Sports Medicine
  • Total Joint Replacement
  • Cartilage Restoration
  • Ligament Injuries
  • Knee
  • Hip
  • Shoulder
  • Elbow
  • Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation

AREAS OF SPECIALIZATION

  • Shoulder Instability
  • Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair
  • Fracture Care
  • ACL Reconstruction
  • Shoulder and Reverse Shoulder Replacement
  • Hip and Knee Replacement
  • Partial Knee Replacement
  • Non-Operative Orthopaedic Care

SPECIAL PROCEDURES/TECHNIQUES

  • Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repairs
  • ACL Reconstruction
  • Rapid Recovery Joint Replacement
  • Minimally Invasive Outpatient Joint Replacement

Business Hall of Fame award winner – Best Sports Medicine Clinic in Arlington 2017

 

Nirschl Orthopaedic Center Recieved the Angies List Super Service Award for 2016

Congratulations to Dr. Clay Wellborn named Top Doctors in Washingtonian Magazine 2016

Congratulations to Dr. Clay Wellborn named Top Doctors in Washingtonian Magazine 2016

 

Voted Nothern Virginia Magazine Top Doctor 2015

Nirschl Orthopaedic Center Recieved the Angies List Super Service Award for 2014

Voted Nothern Virginia Magazine Top Doctor 2014

Congratulations! Dr. Wellborn has been recognized as one of America’s Most Compassionate Doctors! Treating patients-not just disease – is what you excel at, and your patients appreciate the kindness you have dispensed along with your medical care.

 

Facing Fears About Total Joint Replacement Surgery

 

Voted Nothern Virginia Magazine Top Doctor 2011

Voted Northern Virginia Maga

Patient Testimonials

“I was referred by a friend to this office. I saw Dr. Wellborn and have nothing but wonderful things to say about him. He’d been called into surgery the morning of my appointment and was running about 15 minutes late. As soon as he walked into the room and introduced himself he apologized for the delay. After explaining my problem – dealing with my first ever running injury (I’ve been running for over 20 years), he was understanding and immediately said, “Okay, we need to get you running again as soon as possible.” I didn’t have to explain to him the importance of running or argue that this sport was something I wanted (needed!) to continue. He listened to my concerns and explained everything thoroughly, including my diagnosis. He took his time and I never felt rushed. Overall I was very pleased and I’m hopeful that when I return in a month for my follow-up exam I can state the PT helped correct the problem and I’ll be cleared to return to my previous levels of running.” 

Courtney B.

“It has been 5 years since I moved to Florida from Arlington VA. When I injured my knee it seemed that the doctors in Florida could not diagnosis it properly. I finally gave up and flew back to see Dr. Wellborn. With his excellent care and attention to detail he was able to diagnosis me with a torn patellar tendon. It is now 8 weeks post-surgery and I am feeling great! I will not make that mistake again; any orthopaedic injury and I will be on the first plane back to see Dr. Wellborn.” 

Steve P.

“I am one of your satisfied customers. This month marks the one-year anniversary of my last total hip replacement surgery. A previous total hip replacement was performed on my other hip a year prior. Both surgeries were very successful and I am walking again, the way I use to. My quality of life has improved 100% from two years ago and I want to thank you for the excellent medical professional that you have on staff in Dr. Clay Wellborn. 

He met me with a strong handshake and a smile and gave me confidence that we could fix what ailed me. And he did. He advised me on his recommended course of action, discussed all questions I had thoroughly, and supported my decision-making. I felt a real partnership with him in planning for my surgeries. And the best part was that he did an excellent job repairing my failing hip joints. You have a rare gem in Dr. Wellborn. “ 

Mildred L.

“I saw Dr. Wellborn to consult about the need for hip replacement. It was a wonderful experience and as a nurse I’m a hard grader for medical experiences. Every person was friendly and helpful. They were so punctual I was amazed! Dr. Wellborn was kind and patient. He explained everything thoroughly and checked for questions. Their surgical coordinator was also very helpful and thorough. I couldn’t have been happier!” 

Wendy S.