719-623-1050

Ky M. Kobayashi, MD

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4.9
Based on 619 reviews.
Ky M. Kobayashi

Orthopedic Surgeon - Hand & Upper Extremity

Specializing in Conditions Affecting the Hand & Upper Extremities, Shoulder Reconstruction & Sports Medicine
Fax: 719-623-1051
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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

Dr. Kobayashi's Reviews

Carmen R.
2 days ago
I am pleased to be under the care of Dr. Kobayashi. He is very thorough in his examination and explanation of the best medical options for my care and recovery.
T Q.
2 days ago
Ky is a great doctor. He has great communication skills and is very friendly and professional. I'm happy he is my surgeon. U wish he was the one who did it the first time around
Flor L.
2 days ago
Excellent experience. The doctor is all what you want in a doctor! Good listener, good communicator, very professional.
Josh H.
3 days ago
I've seen Dr. Kobayashi for issues with both of my shoulders, and he's consistently taken the time to clearly explain my treatment options and offer practical suggestions for managing the pain. He's professional, friendly, and knowledgeable, and I trust that his recommendations are genuinely made with my best interest in mind. Highly recommend him for orthopedic care.
Melissa H.
3 days ago
I have had such an excellent experience with Dr. Kobayashi, the other providers and the clinic staff. I highly recommend Dr. Kobayashi!
Chuck S.
3 days ago
I have had the unfortunate need for numerous orthopedic Drs in my 70 years and I can say that Dr Ky and his team are far and above the best. He takes time to explain the situation, provides alternatives and actually does an amazing thing most fail to do - listen. Thanks, OCC and Dr Kobayashi!
Veronica C.
4 days ago
This is the second surgery he does for me first one was the ulder nerve on my right arm it was great haven't had any more issues it was done on 2020 this year he did my right shoulder and he is a great doctor
Vincenza L.
4 days ago
My visit yesterday with dr Kabiashi was great I felt very relaxed and reassured
Leo M.
5 days ago
I was very impressed with the immediate care I received from Dr Kobayashi. He and his surgical team treated me with utmost care.
Lori S.
6 days ago
I love going to see Dr. Kobayashi! All of the staff are very friendly, knowledgeable and professional. Dr. Kobayashi makes me feel at ease and cared for. I hardly ever have to wait for my appointment. The whole experience is delightful - I will always recommend Dr. Kobayashi and the Colorado Center of Orthopedic Excellence to all of my friends!

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.