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J. Ross Bailey, MD

4.9

Based on 37 Reviews

Dr. J. Ross Bailey is an orthopaedic surgeon specializing in hip and knee replacement, with focused expertise in adult reconstruction and minimally invasive surgical techniques. He completed his fellowship training in Adult Reconstruction at Mississippi Sports Medicine and Orthopaedic Center in Jackson, Mississippi - one of the region's leading orthopaedic programs.

Dr. Bailey works with patients dealing with hip and knee arthritis, including those who have been told their joint pain is "bone on bone" or have tried other treatments without lasting relief. His approach emphasizes accurate diagnosis, thorough pre-surgical education, and a structured recovery plan designed to help patients return to the activities they love.

He earned his medical degree from East Tennessee State University's Quillen College of Medicine and completed his orthopaedic surgery residency at Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, where he received multiple teaching awards and published research in journals including Arthroplasty Today and the Journal of Hand Surgery.

Dr. Bailey is a member of the American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons (AAHKS) and the Tennessee Medical Association. He sees patients at OrthoSouth's Briarcrest and Southaven locations.

Outside of the clinic, Dr. Bailey enjoys fly fishing, golf, carpentry, and spending time outdoors.

FELLOWSHIP

Adult Reconstruction, Mississippi Sports Medicine and Orthopaedic Center - Jackson, MS

EDUCATION

University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA

Medical School: East Tennessee State University's Quillen College of Medicine - Chattanooga, TN

Residency: Southern Illinois University School of Medicine

PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS

  • American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons (AAHKS)
  • Tennessee Medical Association (TMA)

CONDITIONS TREATED

Hip Conditions

  • Hip arthritis (osteoarthritis)

  • Failed hip replacement (revision surgery)

  • Hip pain limiting walking, stairs, or daily activity

  • Hip pain that has not responded to injections or physical therapy

  • Avascular necrosis (AVN) of the hip

  • Bone-on-bone hip pain

Knee Conditions

  • Knee arthritis (osteoarthritis)
  • Bone-on-bone knee pain
  • Knee pain that limits walking, climbing stairs, or standing
  • Knee pain that wakes you at night
  • Failed knee replacement (revision surgery)
  • Knee stiffness and swelling that has not improved with conservative treatment

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How do I know if I need a hip or knee replacement?

Most patients consider joint replacement when pain is affecting daily life - difficulty walking more than a block, trouble sleeping, or finding that over-the-counter medications and injections no longer provide relief. Dr. Bailey performs a full evaluation, reviews your imaging, and walks through all treatment options before any surgical recommendation is made.

What does 'bone on bone' mean, and does it mean I need surgery?

Bone-on-bone means the cartilage that cushions your joint has worn away significantly, causing the bones to rub directly against each other. It is a common finding on X-ray in patients with arthritis. Not everyone with bone-on-bone arthritis needs immediate surgery - Dr. Bailey will review your imaging in the context of your symptoms and overall health to determine the right next step for you.

What is minimally invasive joint replacement?

Minimally invasive techniques use smaller incisions than traditional approaches, which can reduce trauma to surrounding muscles and soft tissue. For appropriate candidates, this may mean less postoperative pain, a shorter hospital stay, and a faster return to normal activity. Dr. Bailey will discuss whether a minimally invasive approach is suitable for your specific anatomy and health history.

How long is recovery from hip or knee replacement?

Most patients are walking the same day as surgery. Full recovery - returning to normal daily activities without restriction - typically takes three to six months depending on the joint replaced, the surgical technique used, and the patient's overall health and commitment to physical therapy. Dr. Bailey and the OrthoSouth care team provide a structured recovery plan beginning before surgery.

Does OrthoSouth accept my insurance?

OrthoSouth accepts most major insurance plans. Contact our office at 901.641.3000 or visit our Insurance & Billing page to verify your specific coverage before scheduling.