Dr. Scott Ruhlman, MD

Orthopedic Surgery•Male•Age 45

Orthopedic Surgery

Dr. Scott Ruhlman, MD is an orthopedic surgery specialist in Seattle, WA. Dr. Ruhlman has extensive experience in Hand & Wrist Surgery. He is affiliated with Swedish First Hill Campus. His office accepts new patients.

Dr. Scott Ruhlman, MD

Practice

2409 N 45th St Seattle, WA 98103
Hand & Wrist Surgery

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Compare Dr. Ruhlman with our nearby Orthopedic Surgery Specialists at UW Medicine.

Make an appointment at UW Medicine today at (206) 829-4223.

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Experience and Background Checks

Experience
Background

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Frequently Treated by Dr. Ruhlman

Based on treatment records, we have identified the following as areas of care that Dr. Ruhlman treats more often than their peers. If you are unsure whether Dr. Ruhlman treats other conditions, please contact the office at (206) 633-8100.

Hand & Wrist Surgery

Hand and wrist conditions including arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, Dupuytren's contracture, and fractures or sprains, with treatment options such as surgery or physical therapy.Compare with other Hand & Wrist Surgery specialists.

Dr. Ruhlman is experienced in the area of Hand & Wrist Surgery. See the graph below to learn more about his experience.

Based on claims data for 24 conditions and procedures

Treatments
Dr. Ruhlman
Similar Providers
Fracture of Hand and Fingers
De Quervain's Release
Wrist Replacement
Hand or Wrist Tendon Transfer
Normal
Frequency
High
Frequency
Very High
Frequency
View more treatments

Check Dr. Ruhlman's experience treating your condition or procedure

Dr. Ruhlman's conditions and procedures:

  • Fracture of Hand and Fingers
  • Broken Arm
  • De Quervain's Release
  • AC Joint Injury
  • Adhesive Capsulitis Shoulder
  • Ankle Fracture
  • Ankle Sprain and Achilles Tendon Sprain or Rupture
  • Ankle Sprains and Strains
  • Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) or Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL) Tear
  • Arthritis of the Elbow
  • Ataxia
  • Avascular Necrosis
  • Back Pain
  • Bunion
  • Bursitis
  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
  • Coccygeal Pain
  • Complications of Joint Prosthesis
  • De Quervain's Disease
  • Degenerative Disc Disease
  • Difficulty With Walking
  • Dupuytrens Contracture
  • Elbow Sprain
  • Femoral Neck Fracture
  • Femur Fracture
  • Foot Fracture
  • Gait Abnormality
  • Ganglion Cyst
  • Glenoid Labrum Tear
  • Gout
  • Hammer Toe
  • Hand Fracture
  • Hip Fracture
  • Hip Pointer
  • Humerus Fracture
  • Internal Derangement of Knee
  • Intervertebral Disc Disease
  • Joint Pain
  • Knee Dislocation
  • Knee Fracture
  • Knee Sprain
  • Lateral and Medial Epicondylitis (Tennis and Golf Elbow)
  • Lateral Epicondylitis
  • Leg Fracture Above Knee (incl. Hip)
  • Leg Fracture Below Knee (incl. Ankle)
  • Limb Pain
  • Lupus
  • Miner's Knee
  • Morton's Neuroma
  • Nerve Root Injury and Plexus Disorders (incl. Pinched Nerve)
  • Non-Unions and Malunions of Fractures
  • Osteoarthritis
  • Osteoarthritis of Foot
  • Osteoarthritis of Hand
  • Osteoarthritis of Hand or Wrist
  • Osteoarthritis of Hip
  • Osteoarthritis of Hip and Thigh
  • Osteoarthritis of Knee
  • Osteoarthritis of Shoulder
  • Osteoarthritis of Spine
  • Osteoarthritis of Wrist
  • Osteopenia
  • Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS)
  • Pelvic Fracture
  • Radiculopathy
  • Rheumatoid Arthritis
  • Rotator Cuff Tear
  • Rotator Cuff Tendinosis
  • Runner's Knee
  • Sacrum Disorders
  • Scoliosis
  • Shoulder Dislocation
  • Shoulder Fracture
  • Shoulder Impingement Syndrome
  • Shoulder Tendinitis and Tenosynovitis
  • Spine Deformities
  • Sprains and Strains (incl. Muscle Tear)
  • Systemic Chondromalacia
  • Tenosynovitis
  • Thoracic Spine Fracture
  • Tibia and Fibula Fractures
  • Tibial Fracture
  • Trigger Finger
  • Wrist Fracture
  • Wrist Sprain or Strain
  • ACL Surgery
  • Arthrocentesis
  • Carpal Tunnel Injection
  • Carpal Tunnel Release
  • Elbow Fracture and Dislocation Treatment
  • Elbow Fracture Repair
  • Excision of Humerus
  • Excision of Radius or Ulna
  • Excision of Scapula, Clavicle, Rib, or Sternum
  • Foot and Ankle Dislocation Treatment, Closed
  • Foot and Ankle DislocationTreatment, Open
  • Foot and Ankle Fracture and Dislocation Treatment
  • Foot and Ankle Fracture Treatment, Open
  • Hammer Toe Repair
  • Hand and Wrist Fracture and Dislocation Treatment
  • Hand and Wrist Fracture Treatment, Open
  • Hand or Wrist Tendon Transfer
  • Hand Tendon Repair
  • Hip Fracture and-or Dislocation Treatment, Open
  • Hip Replacement
  • Hip Replacement with Robotic Assist
  • Joint Drainage
  • Knee and Leg Fracture and Dislocation Treatment
  • Knee and Lower Leg Fracture Treatment, Open
  • Knee Arthroscopy
  • Meniscus Surgery
  • Musculoskeletal Function Test
  • Myofascial Trigger Point Injection
  • Neuroplasty
  • Partial Hip Replacement
  • Peripheral Nerve Block
  • Resection or Ablation of Bone Tumor, Partial or Complete Resection of Bone, Debridement of Bone
  • Rotator Cuff Surgery
  • Separated Femoral Epiphysis Treatment
  • Shoulder Arthroscopy
  • Shoulder Dislocation Treatment
  • Shoulder Fracture and Dislocation Treatment
  • Shoulder Fracture Treatment
  • Somatic Nerve Block
  • Steroid Injection
  • Trigger Finger Release
  • Wrist Replacement

Dr. Ruhlman's Reviews

Likelihood to recommend Dr. Ruhlman

3.1

Based on 23 ratings

5 Star
48%
48%
4 Star
0%
0%
3 Star
4%
4%
2 Star
9%
9%
1 Star
39%
39%
What went well
No reviews yet
What could be improved
No reviews yet

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RecentHighestLowestMost Helpful
Reply
Lack of empathy
I went to see the doctor due to weakness in my left wrist after a bouldering session. However, after examining my x-ray and conducting a physical examination, the doctor found no abnormalities. When I asked about possible reasons for my symptoms, the doctor insisted that he didn't know and seemed uninterested in understanding my concerns. I expressed my desire to understand the cause of the weakness and receive guidance on what I should or shouldn't do, but the doctor didn't offer any specific suggestions. It was only after I myself mentioned the idea of physical therapy and anti-inflammatory treatment that the doctor mentioned the possibility of physical therapy and ibuprofen as potential remedies. However, he did not provide any certainty about their effectiveness. What bothered me the most was the doctor's overall attitude and lack of empathy towards my condition. I believe that doctors should show empathy towards their patients, even if they are unable to identify the root cause,
What went well
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
What could be improved
  • I didn't feel respected
  • Didn't listen or answer questions
  • Didn't explain conditions well
  • Staff wasn't friendly
  • Long wait times
Helpful
Hao Wei Goh – Jul 01, 2023
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Reply
2 CP surgeries /insulting and rude during follow u
I had both wrists done for carpal tunnel after the second my hand was so now I’m at follow up. I asked if it was normal and he said “it is only when people complain.” RUDE It has been four years since my procedure. I still have numb this new orthopedist said I need to have the procedures done again. Apparently I wasn’t just complaining. It would give me a pause if I read this review and consider going to him. Clearly, the fact I need to have the surgeries again. Should give you a pause about his competency. And also how rude to speak to anyone in that manner definitely not professional.
What went well
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Wait times
What could be improved
  • Didn't listen or answer questions
  • Didn't explain conditions well
  • Didn't trust the provider's decisions
1 person found this helpful
Helpful
Lee Holts – Dec 22, 2022
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Reply
Horrible doctor
Did not care, hasn’t even looked at my x rays or examined my shoulder, asked for what I wanted to do before giving me full education on choices and what surgery would look like, kept contradicting himself, saying that a MRI was needed to know what surgery outcomes looked like but would not allow me to get a MRI. Annoyed at questions. Horrible doctor, does not care about patients. Will complain to a higher board about this.
What went well
  • Appointment scheduling
What could be improved
  • Didn't listen or answer questions
  • Didn't explain conditions well
  • Staff wasn't friendly
  • Appointment was rushed
  • Didn't trust the provider's decisions
  • Long wait times
1 person found this helpful
Helpful
Nov 24, 2022
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Reply
I truly apologize for everybody that have had nothing but a great experience with this particular person. I wish that i could say this myself... He is amazing with post-op (though i was on some heavy medication for i had a fractured radial head) and actually everything from which i encountered. Except for one major and crucial interaction.... After my surgery was finished, i had this "last" interaction with Ruhlman. When i was basically unable to move my left wrist, as well as the elbow itself (i had no idea where to go from here). Ruhlman chatted with me in private and i asked him what to do now, as far as physical therapy or the next step? (These next few words were his, Dr. Scott Ruhlman's) He told me, "well, what i tell my sports patience is. No pain, no gain!" This is what i was told, after being on 2 oxycodone every 2-3 hours, which would be for the next two months of a blur of an existence. I am not sure exactly why he said this...Was the reason that i had a specific kind of
What went well
No results
What could be improved
No results
1 person found this helpful
Helpful
Benjamin Cleppe – Dec 27, 2020
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Reply
I went to see Dr. Ruhlman because he did a great job fixing my son's fractured scaphoid bone. I had a minor problem by comparison, but it bothered me a lot. I had trigger thumb. He explained the treatment options in great detail, left if up to me, and I had an injection in the office. It wasn't fun, but it totally cleared up the trigger finger. If the problem ever comes back, I wouldn't hesitate to have him fix it surgically. Two happy thumbs up!
What went well
No results
What could be improved
No results
2 people found this helpful
Helpful
wh – Apr 29, 2020
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Reply
This doctor made us wait twice for one hour each time. We left both times. He has no respect for our time.
What went well
No results
What could be improved
No results
1 person found this helpful
Helpful
sally J BJORNSEN – Aug 28, 2019
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Reply
After 2 less than informative appointments, I came in for a discussion of an MRI for my broken ankle. I waited 1.5 hours in the office. Yes really. When Dr Ruhlman finally came in and asked how my KNEE was. It was downhill from then on. I would like to give negative stars. No specific information. After insisting he see my knee, the only answer to all my questions was that I had a sprain. No treatment recommended.
What went well
No results
What could be improved
  • Difficult to schedule appointment
  • Didn't listen or answer questions
  • Didn't explain conditions well
  • Staff wasn't friendly
  • Appointment was rushed
  • Didn't trust the provider's decisions
  • Long wait times
2 people found this helpful
Helpful
Linda in Seattlr – Jan 12, 2019
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Reply
Dr. Ruhlman is careless. I was L & I patient, and his negligence in ignoring the ED MD notes and the ED radiologist's recommendation led to the permanent damage to my thumb joint. Despite having seen me only one time, he signed off on me being maximum medically improved. The office never checked in, despite the legal requirement after seeing an L& I client. Be very cautious, and keep in mind that this MD does not have your best interests in mind.
What went well
No results
What could be improved
  • Didn't listen or answer questions
  • Didn't explain conditions well
  • Staff wasn't friendly
  • Appointment was rushed
  • Didn't trust the provider's decisions
2 people found this helpful
Helpful
Claire Page in CT, WA – Jun 28, 2018
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Reply
I suffered from a bimalleolar fracture of my right ankle and needed surgery (hiking injury). I really lucked out getting Dr. Ruhlman. His somewhat aggressive approach to recovery was exactly what I needed to get back to my active/outdoorsy lifestyle. His advice of "the longer you baby it, the longer it will take to heal" ran through my head constantly, and ultimately is what propelled me to have the fastest recovery that my physical therapist has ever seen.
What went well
  • 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 people found this helpful
Helpful
Holly Johnson in Seattle, WA – Apr 19, 2017
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Reply
He was very professional and personable. Once we got back to the room things moved quickly. There was a bit of a wait in the waiting room though. But he was a great Doctor.
What went well
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Listened & answered questions
  • Explained conditions well
  • Staff friendliness
  • Appointment wasn't rushed
  • Trusted the provider's decisions
What could be improved
  • Long wait times
1 person found this helpful
Helpful
Jody in Wood – Mar 26, 2017
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Reply
I had surgery for a ruptured bicep and Dr. Ruhlman was an excellent choice. He's very patient, attentive and skilled.
What went well
  • 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 people found this helpful
Helpful
Hal in Bainbridge Island, WA – Aug 13, 2016
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About Me

Biography

Dr. Scott Ruhlman, MD is an Orthopedic Surgery Specialist in Seattle, WA. Dr. Ruhlman has extensive experience in Hand & Wrist Surgery. He is affiliated...Read more

Specialties

  • Orthopedic Surgery

Board Certifications

American Board of Medical Specialties®

This information is proprietary data maintained in a copyrighted database compilation owned by the American Board of Medical Specialties® (ABMS®).

© Copyright 2023 American Board of Medical Specialties®. All rights reserved.

American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery®
- 
Orthopedic Surgery
Learn more about board certification

UNIVERSITY OF CINCINNATI / MEDICAL CENTER

Medical School

  • Healthgrades Honor Roll
Learn more about recognized doctors

Common Questions and Answers

    Please call the office to learn more. (206) 633-8100

    What is the best way to schedule an appointment with Dr. Scott Ruhlman, MD?

    Click here to schedule an appointment online. New patients may call (206) 829-4223 to make an appointment.

    What other Orthopedic Surgery Specialists practice nearby?

    Compare with other Orthopedic Surgery Specialists.

    Can I use my insurance at Dr. Scott Ruhlman, MD?

    Dr. Scott Ruhlman, MD accepts various insurance plans. You can easily check if your insurance provider is accepted by using the Healthgrades insurance check. We recommend verifying your insurance coverage before scheduling an appointment to ensure a seamless experience.

    What are Dr. Scott Ruhlman, MD's top areas of expertise?

    Dr. Scott Ruhlman, MD specializes in Hand & Wrist Surgery. See more on Healthgrades.

    What is Dr. Scott Ruhlman, MD's office address?

    Dr. Ruhlman's office is located at 2409 N 45th St, Seattle, WA 98103. You can find other locations and directions on Healthgrades.

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    Locations

    Practice

    Seattle Orthopedic Surgery Center2409 N 45th St Seattle, WA 98103
    1
    • Call
    • Fax
    • Hours
      • Mon: 8:30am - 5:00pm
      • Tue: 8:30am - 5:00pm
      • Wed: 8:30am - 5:00pm
      • Thu: 8:30am - 5:00pm
      • Fri: 8:30am - 5:00pm
      • Sat: 8:30am - 5:00pm
      • Sun: 8:30am - 5:00pm
    • Directions
    Office5350 Tallman Ave NW Ste 500 Seattle, WA 98107
    2
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