Owen B. Tabor, Jr., MD

Carolinas Medical Center-Charlotte, NC
Winkler Orthopaedic Research Fellow

• American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)
• Tennessee Orthopaedic Society
• Memphis Orthopaedic Society
• Southern Orthopaedic Association

• Running After Joint Replacement
• Joint Effort - Dr. Owen Tabor, Jr. Featured in Memphis Magazine

• David's Knee Replacement
• Jerry Osborne's Knee Replacement

Castle Connolly Top Doctor 2025

Knee

• Knee arthritis (osteoarthritis)
• Bone-on-bone knee pain
• Knee pain limiting walking, climbing stairs, or standing
• Knee pain that wakes you at night
• Knee pain that has not improved with injections or physical therapy
• Total knee replacement
• Partial knee replacement (unicompartmental arthroplasty)
• Robotic-assisted knee replacement
• Knee replacement revision surgery

Hip

• Hip arthritis (osteoarthritis)
• Bone-on-bone hip pain
• Hip pain limiting walking or daily activity
• Total hip replacement
• Hip replacement revision surgery

What is partial knee replacement and who is a candidate?

Partial knee replacement - also called unicompartmental knee replacement - resurfaces only the damaged compartment of the knee rather than the entire joint. It is an option when arthritis is limited to one area, typically the inner (medial) side of the knee. Compared to total knee replacement, partial replacement preserves more of the natural knee structure, typically allows a faster recovery, and can produce a more natural feeling knee for the right candidate. Dr. Tabor completed a dedicated research fellowship in partial knee replacement at Carolinas Medical Center and has conducted long-term follow-up research on outcomes. He evaluates each patient's imaging, symptoms, and activity goals to determine whether partial or total replacement is the better approach.

What is robotic-assisted knee replacement?

Robotic-assisted knee replacement uses computer-guided technology to create a 3D model of the patient's knee anatomy before surgery. This allows Dr. Tabor to plan and execute implant placement with a higher degree of precision than traditional manual techniques - optimizing alignment for that specific patient's anatomy. Better alignment can mean a more natural-feeling knee after surgery and potentially longer implant life. Dr. Tabor will evaluate during your consultation whether robotic-assisted surgery is appropriate for your condition.

Can I run or stay active after knee replacement?

Many patients return to low-impact activities including walking, cycling, and swimming after knee replacement, typically within a few months of surgery. Returning to running after knee replacement is possible for some patients and depends on the type of replacement performed, the implant used, the patient's overall health, and bone quality. Dr. Tabor has published patient education content on this topic and discusses return-to-activity goals individually with each patient during the pre-surgical planning process. If staying active after surgery is important to you, bring it up at your consultation - it can inform the surgical approach.

What is the difference between total knee replacement and partial knee replacement?

Total knee replacement resurfaces all three compartments of the knee joint. Partial knee replacement resurfaces only the damaged compartment. Partial replacement is only appropriate when arthritis is limited to one area - but for the right candidate it offers a faster recovery, preservation of more natural knee tissue, and often a more natural feel. Dr. Tabor's dedicated research fellowship in partial knee replacement gives him specific expertise in evaluating which approach produces the best long-term outcome for each patient.

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

Most patients consider joint replacement when pain is significantly limiting daily life - difficulty walking, climbing stairs, or sleeping - and non-surgical treatments including injections and physical therapy have not provided lasting relief. Dr. Tabor performs a full evaluation including imaging and walks through all treatment options, including non-surgical alternatives, before any surgical recommendation is made.

How long is recovery from knee or hip 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 procedure, whether partial or total replacement was performed, and the patient's commitment to physical therapy. Dr. Tabor and the OrthoSouth care team develop a personalized recovery plan for each patient beginning before surgery.

Does OrthoSouth accept my insurance?

OrthoSouth accepts most major insurance plans. Call 901.641.3000 or visit the Insurance and Billing page on orthosouth.org to verify your specific coverage.