719-623-1050

Ky M. Kobayashi, MD

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4.9
Based on 607 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
Castle Connolly Top Doc
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

Sherry M.
2 days ago
Dr. Ky, kobayashi,MD And all of his staff are the best! I got my life back. Thank you all. I would recommend them to everyone I come across.
Steve F.
3 days ago
Too early to judge medical outcomes (two weeks since surgery), but professionalism, courtesy, patient care are all top notch. One telling data point: had a nerve block on my shoulder which makes me feel claustrophobic. I asked the anesthesiologist for something to calm my anxiety. He refused! Kobayashi's response "We need to listen to our patients.". So far, everything is proceeding as I was told to expect. Glad that I went with OCC.
Darlene E.
5 days ago
I've not had better care from any other of my doctors. He's thorough, caring, explains everything and takes all the time he needs with each patient. After the last appointment 2 days ago, when he gave me another shot in my shoulder, I got up feeling a lot less pain in both my shoulder AND my neck! I haven't felt this good in 6 months! THANK YOU Dr. Kobayashi!
Marq W.
5 days ago
It was quick, but intentional.
Desiree G.
5 days ago
I cannot say enough wonderful things about Dr. Kobayashi and the care I received. I needed a repair involving a torn ligament and pulley in my dominant hand, and from the very beginning, Dr. Kobayashi was knowledgeable, compassionate, and thorough. Everything was explained clearly, my concerns were taken seriously, and I never felt rushed or dismissed. The surgery went smoothly, and I felt confident knowing I was in such skilled hands. Recovery and hand therapy are still a work in progress, but I’m extremely grateful for the care, precision, and professionalism shown throughout this entire experience. I would highly recommend this doctor to anyone needing hand surgery. Thank you for giving me the best possible chance to regain the use of my hand!
Bill C.
5 days ago
I think Dr. Kobayashi is the best! He gives his TIME which doesn't always happen in a doctor's office. He listens intently and gives his professional opinion in a way that makes sense. When it's time for my surgery, he's the guy that I'll choose because I trust him.
J R O.
5 days ago
I couldn't be happier with Dr Kobayashi and his, PA, Dana. They are always professional, listen and address everything quickly and appropriately. They are always available for questions or concerns. The results of my surgery are better than I could ever have imagined. They have made a difference in my life. I highly recommend Dr Kobayashi and Dana for upper extremity care.
Judy H.
6 days ago
I really like my Doctor. Dr. Kobayashi is a very caring person and always makes you feel comfortable. He really listens to what you're telling him about how you are feeling. I know I'm in good hands when I see Dr.Kobayashi.
Brian S.
1 week ago
The team at OCC are amazing. Dr. Kobayashi is a consummate professional who truly cares for each and every patient.
Liz B.
1 week ago
Doctor Kobyashi is an outstanding physician and surgeon. His professionalism, knowledge and skill are exceptional. So grateful to be treated by such a world class physician!!

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.