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Christopher C. Schmidt

Christopher C. Schmidt, MD

Shoulder and Elbow Orthopedic Surgery

Accepting New Patients
4.8 of 5 stars511 ratings, 117 reviews
Need help scheduling? Call 412-748-7444

Highlights

Age Groups Seen

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Older Adult

Languages

  • English

Gender

Male

About Christopher C. Schmidt

Christopher C. Schmidt, MD, is a nationally distinguished shoulder and elbow surgeon. He serves as director of the Shoulder and Elbow Fellowship, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery at UPMC. He specializes in rotator cuff repairs, shoulder and elbow replacements, instability repairs, nerve reconstructions, fracture care, and distal biceps re-attachments.

Dr. Schmidt has published more than 150 book chapters and peer-reviewed scientific articles and abstracts on rotator cuff surgery, shoulder replacements, distal biceps re-attachments, stem cells, growth factors, and soft tissue healing. His two most recent peer review book chapters are on rotator cuff pathology and shoulder replacement surgery. His work is published in respected peer review orthopedic journals.

Dr. Schmidt was nominated twice for the Charles S. Neer Award, given by the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons. As acknowledgment for his research on growth factors, he was awarded the prestigious O’Donoghue Sports Injury Research Award, given by the American Orthopaedic Society of Sports Medicine. Further, his patients selected him as one of Pennsylvania’s Favorite Physicians and he was elected by his peers as one of Pittsburgh’s “Best Doctors.”

Dr. Schmidt participates in a number of educational and volunteer governance committees for the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) and the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons. He was elected by his peers to serve as the representative for the American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons on the AAOS Clinical Practice Guidelines Committee for Full Thickness Rotator Cuff Tears. The national guidelines are designed to improve patient care through evidence-based medicine. 

Dr. Schmidt’s offices are conveniently located in the North Hills and South Hills of Pittsburgh and Washington, Pennsylvania.

This provider is affiliated with UPMC.

Logo for This provider is affiliated with UPMC.

Leadership Title

DIrector of Shoulder Surgery and Laboratory, Orthopaedic Specialists

Academic Title

Director of Shoulder and Elbow Fellowship

Provider Type

Physician

Locations

  1. Orthopaedic Specialists - UPMC
    • 9104 Babcock Boulevard, Suite 5113, Pittsburgh, PA 15237
    • Orthopaedic Specialists-UPMC
      • 1300 Oxford Drive, Suite 1200, Bethel Park, PA 15102
      • Orthopaedic Specialists - UPMC
        • 100 Trich Drive, Washington, PA 15301

        Expertise

        Education

        Indiana University Hospital

        Fellowship

        University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine

        Residency

        University of Wisconsin School of Medicine

        Medical Education

        Board Certifications

        Orthopaedic Surgery

        American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery

        Surgery of the Hand

        American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery

        Insurance

        Please call the physician's office to verify insurance coverage.
        Search plans
        • UPMC for Life
        • UPMC for You
        • UPMC Health Plan
        • Aetna
        • Amerihealth Caritas
        • Cigna
        • Gateway
        • Health America
        • Health America / Advantra
        • Highmark
        • Humana
        • Independent Health
        • Medical Mutual of OH
        • Medicare
        • Non-PA Medical Assistance
        • PA Health And Wellness
        • PA Medical Assitance
        • Palmetto
        • The Health Plan
        • Tricare
        • Unison
        • United Healthcare
        • Veterans Choice

        Ratings & Reviews

        4.8 out of 5

        511 ratings, 117 reviews

        The Patient Satisfaction Rating is an average of all responses to the care provider related questions shown below from our survey. Patients that are treated in outpatient or hospital environments may receive different surveys, and the volume of responses will vary by question.

        Concern the care provider showed for your questions or worries
        Average provider Concern the care provider showed for your questions or worries rating 4.8 out of 5 stars
        Explanations the care provider gave you about your problem or condition
        Average provider Explanations the care provider gave you about your problem or condition rating 4.7 out of 5 stars
        Care provider's efforts to include you in the decisions about your care
        Average provider Care provider's efforts to include you in the decisions about your care rating 4.7 out of 5 stars
        Care provider's discussion of any proposed treatment
        Average provider Care provider's discussion of any proposed treatment rating 4.7 out of 5 stars
        Likelihood of your recommending this care provider to others
        Average provider Likelihood of your recommending this care provider to others rating 4.8 out of 5 stars
        Search reviews
          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 5/1/2025

          Dr. Schmidt was very thorough.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 4/1/2025

          Highly recommend Dr. Schmidt.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 3/25/2025

          Excellent physician. Provided article he co-authored on the issue with my shoulder and explained the issues, injection, and reasons and benefits of physical therapy.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 3/18/2025

          Never walked away wondering anything that I needed to know!I have already recommended my Brother-in-law to go there, he did had reversal replacement and is very pleased!

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 3/18/2025

          Dr. Schmidt and his PA Maureen explained everything in great detail to us. They explained every step to us along with what to expect.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 3/14/2025

          Dr. Schmidt arrived, introduced himself and also his two assistants. He asked me to hold my arm in certain positions, asked about my discomfort, and we then sat down to discuss what can be done. Dr. Schmidt provided me with copies of my Xrays so I was able to see exactly what he was explaining to me was wrong with my shoulder. Additionally, Dr. Schmidt showed me documents which had illustrations of the procedure that would be used to replace my shoulder. I have had hip and knee replacements and was never shown my Xrays, nor were the procedures ever explained to me. Dr. Schmidt has a very calming voice as well as a confidence as he took time to explain to me how this would be done and what I would need to do once the procedure was completed.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 3/13/2025

          Dr. Schmidt is the best in my book!

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 3/4/2025

          I've informed many people with shoulder issues about Doctor Schmidt as I highly recommend him

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 2/11/2025

          Excellent care provided by Dr. Schmidt

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 2/6/2025

          I've recommended this doctor several times.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 2/4/2025

          Best dr. Around

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 1/28/2025

          Dr Schmidt answered all my questions clearly and in an understandable way.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 1/23/2025

          Dr. Schmidt was excellent and very efficient.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 1/23/2025

          Great staff

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 1/21/2025

          Very good

        • No RatingReviewed on 1/14/2025

          This visit was a total waste of my time! Was told 6 months ago to take some time and think about 2 different approaches to surgeries . When ready come back to be seen for 5 minutes to be told he wouldn't do surgery and deal with the pain! Dr. Schmidt is one of the worst Dr. I have ever seen poor communication and doesn't care for a patient that he hasn't done the surgery on is what I got from that visit!

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 1/14/2025

          I greatly appreciate everyone at the office. Each staff member shows interest in you and is easy to communicate with.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 12/19/2024

          Dr Schmidt listens and lets his patients be involved in their treatment. He allows his patients to see their test results (MRI,etc). Very kind.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 12/10/2024

          Dr Schmidt gave clear explanation for the discomfort in my elbow and the treatment options available

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 12/10/2024

          Dr. Schmidt is world class!!

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 11/14/2024

          All my questions where answered

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 11/5/2024

          This practice is truly a special organization. Caring combined with extraordinary skill is something to be admired and celebrated.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 10/29/2024

          Highly recommend

          3 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 10/29/2024

          Seemed like doctor was a bit rushed.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 10/24/2024

          Also Besides great care from Dr Schmidt I would like to reconize Maureen and Racheal for being so great at their jobs b making my surgery go smooth

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 10/24/2024

          Great doctor and staff. It's worth the drive for me

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 10/17/2024

          He was very good. Listened and explained. Was patient.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 10/3/2024

          I would recommend Dr. Schmidt in a heartbeat. He is an excellent surgeon and cares about his patients.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 9/26/2024

          I have already recommended Dr. Schmidt to other people.

        • No RatingReviewed on 9/13/2024

          I came in to be seen for a reinjury to my right shoulder. I was not happy with my surgeon from 4 years ago. Dr Schmidt made it clear that he did not want to treat me and told me to go back to the same surgeon. He pushed me through range of motion tests and position tests super fast. He was running way behind and my care suffered because of it. I feel neglected and will probably not use any UPMC provider ever again.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 9/10/2024

          Dr Schmidt is great, takes time with me, and is very good with explaining things.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 8/29/2024

          I think Dr. Schmidt is an excellent doctor and that's why I remain under his care.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 8/20/2024

          It was do refreshing and encouraging yo have a physician take an interest and not be treated like just a number.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 8/15/2024

          The doctor showed care and concern.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 8/13/2024

          I had a great experience with everyone I encountered.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 8/1/2024

          Amazing how everyone took the time to focus and seriously show care about you.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 7/30/2024

          Hands on demonstration of the new home exercises was given by Dr Schmidt

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 7/30/2024

          Awesome experience

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 7/25/2024

          Dr. Schmidt was one of the best doctor visits I have been to. Very professional and seemed to really care.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 7/16/2024

          Top shelf experience

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 6/25/2024

          Dr. Schmidt is an amazing surgeon and I would definitely recommend him to others.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 6/11/2024

          Dr Schmidt is so nice and has great empathy.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 6/7/2024

          Dr Schmidt is amazing

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 6/7/2024

          I valued very much being able to see Dr Christopher Schmidt at all of my follow up appointments.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 6/6/2024

          Had excellent care !

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 6/4/2024

          Everyone is great in this office!! Very pleased with medical care and information.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 5/30/2024

          Have already recommended this care provider

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 5/28/2024

          As stated previously, the communication and care was stellar.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 5/16/2024

          Would recommend this Dr to anyone. He's the best!

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 5/14/2024

          Dr Schmidt is excellent communicator and explains things in an easy to understand way.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 5/14/2024

          Already have referred to him

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 4/25/2024

          Dr Schmidt did my last rotator cuff surgery approx 18 months ago. Excellent outcome. Will do same surgery on left rotator cuff next week.

          4 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 4/23/2024

          Good

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 3/19/2024

          Dr. Schmidt is excellent.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 3/19/2024

          Dr. Schmidt and his entire team are world class! My former boss decided to use Dr. Schmidt for an injury after speaking with me.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 3/14/2024

          I love Dr Schmidt!!

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 3/14/2024

          Dr Schmidt is a caring and talented doctor

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 3/5/2024

          Outstanding

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 3/5/2024

          I've never received better care anywhere

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 2/29/2024

          Excellent doctor, very caring and explains everything well

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 2/29/2024

          Excellent experience

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 2/15/2024

          Dr. Schmidt was knowledgeable and attentive to my elbow pain.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 2/8/2024

          Always very personal and helpful, professional at all times, care is top rate!!

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 2/8/2024

          Dr. Schmidt is by far the best orthopedic surgeon going

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 2/6/2024

          Took time to explain options and impacts

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 1/25/2024

          Dr. Schmidt advises me of every step to be taken or tests needed.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 1/25/2024

          Dr Schmidt is one of the most caring person I know and would recommend him to anyone!

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 1/9/2024

          Dr Schmidt spent a considerable amount of time explaining all the options of surgery to my wife and myself.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 1/2/2024

          You are lucky to have Dr. Schmidt.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 12/21/2023

          Was given little hope by previous provider, Dr Schmidt gave me hope

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 12/21/2023

          A+ always

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 11/30/2023

          Dr. Schmidt and his staff are excellent!

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 11/21/2023

          Dr Schmidt and the other care givers are very kind and attentive

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 11/14/2023

          The first Orthopedic I saw didn't think there was enough of my shoulder left to save. He sent me to Dr. Schmidt and said if anyone can fix it he can. It was worse then expected but he did it. 4 months after and back to work. Great Job Doc.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 11/10/2023

          Very good experience.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 11/9/2023

          Excellent doctor

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 10/24/2023

          Dr. Schmidt and his team are excellent and well worth the drive from State College

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 10/24/2023

          Best surgeon for the shoulder

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 10/17/2023

          I had doc before & already have recommended doc Schimidt

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 10/17/2023

          Dr. Schmidt provided a thorough explanation of my diagnosis after a complete examination. I was impressed with how well he communicated the diagnosis to me including sketching a diagram of my shoulder's anatomy! He was very professional, thoughtful, and took time to make sure that he answered all of my questions and to ensure I understood the next steps.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 10/12/2023

          Dr Schmidt is the best! His skill gave me a second chance of an active life with the use of my arm.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 10/12/2023

          Dr Schmidt will be my arm, hand, elbow orthopedist going forward.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 10/10/2023

          Dr Schmidt is the best Dr EVER, PERIOD!

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 9/29/2023

          As previously noted, Dr Schmidt was fantastic!

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 9/12/2023

          I have already recommended Dr. Schmidt to several people.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 9/12/2023

          I always recommend Dr Schmidt and his team they are the best!

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 9/7/2023

          Thoroughness appears to be the hallmark of the doctor, and that includes handing me a copy of his research (that, as a retired scientist, I greatly appreciated).

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 9/7/2023

          My problem was explained to me in detail, including showing and explaining my MRI. I felt I was receiving care from the very best, as a result I had no real concerns or doubts about my very first surgery.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 9/5/2023

          Everyone moves very quickly in that office! Highly recommend them

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 8/31/2023

          Best doctor I've had

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 8/29/2023

          Dr Schmidt is a great surgeon and a very pleasant person. I very much appreciate him.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 8/22/2023

          The doctor explained thoroughly my options. He was confident and I feel I'll be in good hands.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 8/22/2023

          Dr. Schmidt has a great attitude, is thorough, and competent, Based on my Mom's issues, I picked him based on his attitude and ability.

          2 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 8/15/2023

          Very little was discussed other than my being told that I had gout . No recommendations were made .

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 8/1/2023

          Excellent!!

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 7/21/2023

          Excellent care!

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 7/20/2023

          One of the best orthopedic doctors I've had the pleasure of meeting and doing my surgery.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 7/18/2023

          I would definitely recommend anyone that has problems with their hands like I do to Dr. Schmidt. He is a wonderful doctor.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 7/13/2023

          I have great confidence in Dr Schmidt, I would and have recommended him.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 7/11/2023

          Very kind, informative

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 6/27/2023

          My faith in Dr Schmidt is unwavering. I have known him since 2018 when he repaired my left rotator cuff after another Dr did not fix it.. When I needed wrist surgery, I went directly to Dr. Schmidt.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 6/15/2023

          Excellent doctor. Talked to numerous patients of his work & all said he performs excellent work & helped a lot of people.

          4 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 6/8/2023

          He's by far the best ortho doctor.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 6/6/2023

          Very good experience

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 6/1/2023

          My healing was amazing!

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 6/1/2023

          Fantastic physician conversation!

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 5/30/2023

          Overall the absolute best experience I've ever had with a physician!!

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 5/30/2023

          Dr.Christopher Schmidt is very personable. He always greets me and shakes my hand.Asks questions about my progress in therapy.Answers any questions I may have.Excellent surgeon, and I recommend him to family, friends and colleagues.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 5/30/2023

          Dr. Schmidt came highly recommended and I would definitely recommend him to everyone. He is very patient, kind and knowledgeable. He explained everything that I was going to go through with the surgery and recovery.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 5/25/2023

          Every encounter I've had with Dr. Schmidt has been excellent. He is very pleasant, knowledgeable, and easy to talk with. He is the best ortho specialist and am very grateful to be under his care for my issues. I would highly recommend this excellent doctor. UPMC is blest to blest to have him and his expertise. Thank you.

          4 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 5/18/2023

          Dr did not listen to or even consider my work conditions, requirements, or my current ability before releasing me back to work.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 5/18/2023

          Definitely would recommend this care provider to others.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 5/12/2023

          Dr Schmidt is wonderful brilliant specialist who listens and includes the patient in his analysis. My improvement beat all odds and he was thrilled and encouraged me to continue what I was doing.

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 5/11/2023

          Would highly recommend!

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 5/9/2023

          Dr Schmidt showed concern and empathy for my medical problem . He gave very detailed information about my condition and recommended treatment .

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 5/4/2023

          I had a great experience

          3 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 5/2/2023

          Dr. Schmidt is a very good surgeon but he is so fast with his routine. Some people like me that take a little bit of time to take it all in feel like you're spun around and you don't get a chance to let your questions out or let what he has planned Settle in. Are usually have concerns because my healing is slow because of the Coumadin I am on. He does recognize that and say so but I get other questions that pop up after I am left alone in the room and I don't feel like I was given a chance , even if I have them written down, I don't get to go through my list of questions because he's out of the room so quick

          5 out of 5 stars
          Reviewed on 5/2/2023

          Excellent doctor helped me with my medical issues...outstanding doctor. I would recommend him to anyone in need of his specialty