Ky M. Kobayashi, MD

Orthopedic Surgeon - Hand & Upper Extremity

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4.9
Based on 495 reviews.
Specializing in Conditions Affecting the Hand & Upper Extremities, Shoulder Reconstruction & Sports Medicine
Fax: 719-623-1051
Ky M. Kobayashi

Dr. Ky Kobayashi is a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon with dual specialization in disorders of the hand and upper extremity, including complex shoulder injuries and degenerative conditions. Based in Colorado Springs, Dr. Kobayashi is widely regarded for his surgical precision, compassionate patient care, and dedication to restoring optimal function to individuals of all activity levels—from elite athletes to everyday workers.

Dr. Kobayashi holds dual Certificates of Added Qualification (CAQ) in Surgery of the Hand and Sports Medicine, a rare distinction that reflects his broad and comprehensive expertise across the entire upper limb. His surgical repertoire includes advanced procedures in microsurgery, arthroscopy, nerve repair, tendon reconstruction, fracture management, and total shoulder arthroplasty. His experience encompasses both acute traumatic injuries and chronic degenerative disorders, such as rotator cuff tears, arthritis, and nerve entrapment syndromes.

A distinguished graduate of the United States Air Force Academy, Dr. Kobayashi earned his medical degree from the University of Colorado School of Medicine with honors. He completed his orthopedic surgery residency at the University of Connecticut, followed by a fellowship in hand, wrist, elbow, and microvascular surgery at the Tufts Combined Hand Fellowship in Boston—a program known for its emphasis on complex upper extremity reconstruction from the hand to shoulder.

Dr. Kobayashi is a retired officer in the United States Air Force, where he served with distinction in multiple combat zones. His military career included leadership in combat casualty care, limb salvage, and surgical reconstruction, earning him numerous commendations for exemplary service. He has brought these high-stakes surgical skills to civilian practice, offering patients the same caliber of care trusted by military personnel in some of the world’s most demanding environments.

In addition to his clinical practice, Dr. Kobayashi has contributed significantly to orthopedic education and professional leadership. He has served as Assistant Program Director for the orthopedic residency program at Wilford Hall Medical Center, one of the military’s most prominent training institutions. He is also an Assistant Professor of Surgery at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences (USUHS) in Bethesda, MD and Assistant Clinical Professor at the University of Colorado Department of Orthopedics where he continues to mentor the next generation of  orthopedic surgeons.  Dr. Kobayashi has authored peer-reviewed publications, contributed to orthopedic textbook chapters, and delivered national presentations on topics including upper extremity trauma, military surgery, and sports medicine.

Nationally, Dr. Kobayashi is an active contributor to orthopedic innovation and standards of care. He has served on the Board of Specialties for the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), Military Relations Committee  for the American Society for Surgery of the Hand and is a past leader within the Society of Military Orthopaedic Surgeons (SOMOS). His insights and leadership have influenced orthopedic care policy, trauma system development, and surgical education across the country.

Dr. Kobayashi maintains a strong connection to the athletic community. He has served as a team physician for the U.S. Air Force Academy Division I sports teams and is currently an orthopedic consultant for the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Training Center in Colorado Springs. His sports medicine practice emphasizes minimally invasive techniques, joint preservation strategies, and return-to-play protocols that prioritize both performance and long-term joint health.

Whether treating an elite athlete, injured worker, or retiree seeking to restore quality of life, Dr. Kobayashi delivers evidence-based, individualized care grounded in experience, innovation, and integrity. Patients benefit from his deep understanding of complex anatomy, advanced surgical techniques, and a collaborative approach that places their goals and outcomes at the center of the treatment plan.

Conditions Treated Include:

  • Carpal tunnel syndrome and peripheral nerve compression
  • Trigger finger, De Quervain’s tenosynovitis, and overuse tendonitis
  • Fractures and dislocations of the hand, wrist, elbow, and shoulder
  • Shoulder instability, labral tears, and rotator cuff pathology
  • Nerve and microvascular trauma, including brachial plexus injuries
  • Sports-related injuries of the shoulder and elbow
  • Degenerative joint disease and arthritis requiring joint reconstruction or replacement

Request a Consultation

If you are experiencing pain, loss of function, or an injury affecting your hand, wrist, elbow, or shoulder, trust your care to a nationally recognized expert. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Ky Kobayashi and take the first step toward restoring mobility, strength, and confidence in your upper extremity health.

Education

  • Fellowship: Tufts Combined Hand/Upper Extremity Fellowship, Boston, MA
  • Residency: Orthopedic Surgery Residency, University of Connecticut, Farmington, CT
  • Medical School: MD: University of Colorado, Denver, CO
  • Undergraduate School: BS: United States Air Force Academy, Colorado Springs, CO

Board Certifications

  • American Board of Orthopedic Surgeons (ABOS) Diplomate
  • Certificate of Added Qualification (CAQ) in Surgery of the Hand/ Sports Medicine

Team Physician

  • 2015 – Present Orthopedic Consultant, United States Olympic Training Center
  • 2009-2014 Team Physician the United States Air Force Academy Division I Sports

Memberships & Organizations

  • American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons
  • American Society for Surgery of the Hand
  • Society of Military Orthopedic Surgeons
  • Colorado Medical Society
  • El Paso County Medical Society

Leadership & Outreach

Dana M. Hubbard, PA-C

Physician Assistant

Dana serves as a physician assistant for Dr. Kobayashi specializing in upper extremity and sports medicine orthopedic care. Her duties include managing patients in the clinic, fracture care and assisting cases in the operating room. She is proficient in shoulder, elbow, wrist and hand injuries as well as diagnosis and treatment of chronic orthopedic issues. Prior to joining the upper extremity team, Dana graduated from A.T. Still University in Mesa, AZ and subsequently completed a 1-year advanced fellowship in orthopedic surgery at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Dayton, Ohio. As a certified physician assistant since 2010, Dana has extensive experience with patient care in both a primary care and orthopedic setting.

Leann Murphy-Steinbeck

Leann Murphy-Steinbeck, PA-C

Physician Assistant

Experience in assisting in surgery, consultations, ER/hospital call, hospital rounds, follow ups, pre-ops, and post-ops. Adept at diagnosing and treating common acute medical problems of primary care including URI, otitis media/externa, pneumonia, conjunctivitis, gastritis, migraines, muscle strains, ligament sprains, and abrasions. Experience understanding the pathophysiology, prevention, diagnosis and management of chronic medical problems such as diabetes mellitus, hypertension, asthma, COPD, hyperlipidemia, thyroid disease, and chronic pain syndromes. Experience with the normal process of growth and development in children and demonstrate ability to provide age appropriate anticipatory guidance. Competency with pediatric immunization schedule, Denver development scale, CDC growth charges, and newborn assessments. Deliver patient education regarding nutrition, exercise, smoking cessation and pre-conceptual counseling. Evaluate and manage common clinical problems in women’s health such as abnormal uterine bleeds, STI’s, menorrhagia, and menopause. Experienced with the following procedures: Venipuncture, urinary bladder catheters, pelvic exams, CPR, I&D’s, laceration repair via suture, staples and Dermabond, wound care, and digital nerve block. Strengths: passionate about providing patient oriented care, dedicated to lifelong education, and committed to aiding the medically underserved.

Dr. Kobayashi's Reviews

Cynthia L.
Dr Kobayashi is very knowledgeable, thorough, and took time to explain test results, diagnosis and treatment. All of the staff members were helpful and pleasant. I highly recommend this practice.
Christine E.
Very professional and provide exceptional care. Friendly and personable staff. Dr Kobayashi is an highly skill surgeon and genuinely cares about his patients.
Sharon S.
Doctor Kobayashi and his team are wonderful. They listen to all of your concerns and answer your questions thoroughly. They are all very kind and want their patience to have the best outcome possible. If you’re looking for a great team,
You have found one. I highly recommend them.
Mary K.
Dr Kobayashi was very nice, he explained what needed to be done next. I feel he's a very good Dr.
Kirk B.
Dr K was his usual outstanding self. He took time to show me the X-rays of my fractured right clavicle. If you need an orthopedic surgeon, he is your person.
Jane W.
Dr Ky was so helpful to understand how I was feeling and was able to assure me regarding the success of my surgery. Thank you, Dr Ky!
Ginnette R.
I had a reverse shoulder replacement performed by Dr Ky Kobayashi in September of 2025. Dr Kobayashi is an excellent doctor and did a great job on my replacement. I have worked hard at all of my therapy and now have excellent flexibility. I have been told that this is due to having such a great doctor! I totally agree and would recommend Dr Kobayashi to anyone considering this procedure! Dr Kobayashi is a very kind and considerate man and an excellent surgeon!
Pit R.
Dr Kobayashi is amazing. He's not only extremely talented at what he does but he is an absolute wonderful man that treats everyone fabulously
Michelle S.
Dr. Kobayashi and PA Hubbard are a great and caring team. They listen to the patient, hearing what they are saying and addressing the concern.
Kristin M.
I have the utmost respect for Dr. Ky Kobayashi and recommend him without reservation for his outstanding medical care as an orthopedic surgeon.

Dr. Kobayashi treated me for both a wrist fracture and an ulnar fracture. From the initial evaluation through treatment and follow-up care, he demonstrated a high level of clinical expertise, precision, and professionalism. He clearly explained my diagnoses, outlined treatment options in a straightforward and understandable manner, and ensured that I was comfortable and well-informed at every stage of care.

His surgical judgment and technical skill were evident in the outcome of my treatment. My healing progressed as expected, and my functional recovery reflected both his careful planning and attention to detail. Beyond his technical ability, Dr. Kobayashi showed genuine concern for my recovery, pain management, and long-term function. He was thorough, responsive to questions, and consistently respectful of my time and concerns.

It is not easy to find a surgeon who combines technical excellence with clear communication and patient-centered care. Dr. Kobayashi does all three exceptionally well. Based on my personal experience, I would confidently recommend him to any patient, institution, or organization seeking an orthopedic surgeon of the highest caliber.
MARLA M.
Dr Kobayashi was wonderful! He was friendly, attentive and willing to spend time explaining the plan of action.
Donald D.
I would recommend Dr Kobayashi in a heartbeat. By all early measures, the surgery he performed to repair my rotator cuff and biceps issues was a complete success. And interestingly enough, I have had little of the pain many others have spoken about. My first post op meeting with Dr. Ky was last Thursday. And it was immediately evident to me that he truly cared, not just about my health and recovery, but also about the quality of his work. And those items go hand-in-hand!!! When he showed my wife that you could barely notice the incisions, it was done in almost a child like wonder. And after all the surgeries he has performed, that amazes me still. His warmth, compassion, and positive nature will go a long way in helping my recovery. Thanks Dr Ky and team!!!!!
German D.
Dr Kobayashi is one of a kind, specially on doing my reverse shoulder replacement. Now I have a full movement and recovery of my right arm in less than 6 month.
Highly recommend 😎👍
Carwyn S.
Dr. Kobayashi is an incredible physician and surgeon. Very knowledgeable, experienced, and insightful. He also provides a number of options based on your age, sport and exercise lifestyle. He did an amazing job on my biceps tenodesis and humeral microfracture - I recovered quickly, pain free, and haven't had any problems of any kind in more than 5 years of swimming, lifting, running, and mountain biking. He also has excellent bedside manner - empathetic, positive, active listener. I have no hesitation in recommending him, and he has successfully operated on a family member.
Sarah G.
Dr Kobayashi is a wonderful doctor. I never feel rushed at my appointments. He takes his time & addresses any issues I have. He is genuinely a caring person & doctor. His staff is also amazing.
Kirstin G.
Doc. K truly cares about my well-being. He belongs to a big office, but he and all of his support staff are amazing. They work together to make your experience as good as it can be.
Jim P.
Best of care. Professional, thorough, and caring. Dr. Kabayashi is top notch.
Mary W.
Great service!
Bob F.
I had terrible pain in my shoulder from a torn tendon from military service, Dr. Kobayashi was highly recommended, the surgery went extremely well, I could not have asked for a better outcome. Dr. Kobayashi and their staff were very professional and cared about me throughout the entire process, surgery and recovery.
Lawrence A.
Dr. KOBAYASHI and his staff are incredible. From the first phone call that I had to schedule the appointment all the way through to my post-op visit, everyone was very helpful, informative answered all questions that I had and made me feel very comfortable and at ease. Highly recommend Dr. KOBAYASHI.
Demelsia C.
Dr. Kobayashi was the kindest Dr and has the best bed side manner. Also his PT program and front desk was top notch. So attentive and felt like I was a part of the team through months of PT
Gary
It was a distinct and great pleasure to meet, and discuss my situation with Dr. Kobayashi. I had been looking forward to meeting him. I started by liking him from the beginning and ended the same only more so with a whole lot of respect added to the mix!! I have no doubt he will take great care of me!!! Thank you Doctor K!!!
Lorella M.
Dr Kobayashi was wonderful. He took time to explain and answer all my questions. I would highly recommend him to everyone. Thank you for your care and professionalism.
Marianne M.
Dr. Kobiachi did surgery on my finger and it looks great. He was so kind and helpful. I appreciate the care and all his assistant s were great too.
Ed K.
Dr. Ky Kobayashi did a fantastic surgical repair of my shoulder!
Gary H.
Excellent Doctor, kind, gentle,
compassionate and considerate. You couldn't ask for a better Doctor. His knows his business.
S W.
Dr Kobayashi and his team are the BEST! Thanks as always for the excellent care!
Michelle W.
Dr Kobayashi is a super doctor and person. He is gentle and caring. He listens to what I say and does what's best for me. He has genuine concern. He has done surgeries on myself and my husband, with great results. We would go to anyone else. Thank you Dr Kobayashi!!
Danielle S.
Dr Kobyashi & his staff are number one in my book! Thank you for your care, I have complete confidence in you!
Cynthia W.
Understanding and always listening to what I have to say! Took into account that I only have use of one hand so I can’t really have surgery on the other one.
Helen S.
Dr. Kobayashi is very kind, compassionate, detailed, and knowledgeable. Best in the Springs.
Pamela M.
A very pleasant environment! Dr. Kobayashi was professional, patient, knowledgeable and confident and it puts you at ease immediately. Very refreshing! I feel like I’m in good hands! The staff were also very friendly and professional as well!
J Y.
I've only had my initial visit, but it went really well. Everyone was personal and professional. My only issue is the check in is 30 min prior to appt time, then it took about 25 min after my schedule appt time before I was seen. Fingers crossed the next visit is quicker.
Sandra T.
Very personal Listen so carefully answered all my concerns.I felt like I had all my questions answered… Love Love this Dr❤️🙏❤️
Angela K.
Dr Kobayashi was so great with injecting our arthritis riddled hands. Gentle and kind as always.
Sandy A.
I received excellent care with my Carpal Tunnel surgery by Dr. Kobayashi and his team. He has superb communication skills, listens and explains everything very well. I highly recommend him.
A K.
Dr. K is the best! Very personable and it is clear that he wants to fix the issue. Highly recommended!
freddy M.
When my surgery is as important as he made me feel, I do think the right person for me is Ky Kobayashi!
Candy D.
Had my 1st visit with my Dr. Ky M. KOBAYASHI for my Shoulder surgery N he mentioned to me that I am in his hands N he will take care of me with his best experience he has n been known of. So I’m depending n happy he is my Surgeon. I am very relieved he gave me his word.
J S.
Dr. Kobayashi is extremely professional and personable. He discussed my issues and concerns, extensively. I wasn’t just a number. I am confident Dr. Kobayashi is the surgeon I need to take care of my complicated issues.
Dave C.
Very professional staff. Ky Kobayashi is the best!!
tee K.
Dr Kobayashi took the time to thoroughly review my X-rays and understood the strain my arthritis was causing me and my livelihood, and more importantly took it seriously!! I had become desperate for a medical professional to finally take my condition seriously, as it has gotten to the point of such severe distress I was ready to start looking for a Dr in Denver because my primary just kept dismissing my concerns and pain and offered nothing to help. Dr Kobayashi went into gear right away, giving me shots and putting a plan together for next steps to alleviate this painful condition and I really left feeling like FINALLY, someone is listening to me. And I just can't thank him enough!!

Dr. Kobayashi's Clinic Locations

CO Springs Briargate

2446 Research Pkwy, Ste 200
Colorado Springs
CO
80920

– ANNOUNCEMENT –
Effective 01/01/2026

United Healthcare HMO and HMO-POS plans require an authorized referral from your Primary care Provider (PCP).

We will honor existing appointments through 03/01/2026 without authorization. However, any planned or ongoing treatment may be delayed if authorization is not received (IE: MRI, Surgery, PT/OT).

Please contact your PCP as soon as possible to obtain an authorization if you wish to be seen today or to avoid delays in care.