My being in need of a second shoulder replacement, took me to Dr. Daniel G. Schwartz from the Polyclinic who performed the operation at the Swedish Orthopedic Institute in Seattle. My second shoulder replacement has turned out to have such a better outcome than my first which was April 2021, even though both were with respected shoulder specialist & hospitals. Dr. Schwartz's approach was to have a more in-depth look into the condition of my shoulder & then to plan out ahead what would need to be done. He was able to give me that view & understanding early in my considerations which was a help for me in making a decision on who to go with & when. Since he uses the Swedish Orthopedic Institute to operate, I found out also how they compared to the other local hospital. The first surgery was done just at the beginning of Covid 19, so at that time the hospital was full staffed & I felt pampered. But due to how policies during Covid 19 have diminished all hospital staff, I can't hold that difference/lack against Swedish Orthopedic. One thing that took place at Swedish that did not happen at the previous hospital was their pain management process. I was discharged with a pain pump/non mechanical that lasted about 4-5 days. I think it was because of that & the hands & plan of Dr. Schwartz that my pain level was significantly lower over those first days than with the first surgery. Plus, I did not need to take the quantity of opioids that were necessary with prior surgery & was able to get off them all together sooner than before. If you need shoulder surgery, I can't recommend high enough to consider Dr. Daniel G. Schwartz who was with the Polyclinic in Seattle but does his surgeries at Swedish Orthopedic. He even called me at home after I was discharged that first day to see how I was doing, and that did not happen with my first surgery with a different local doctor. So, Thank You Dr. Schwartz & Swedish Orthopedic for making a surgery that I really did not want to go so well. My physical therapy is progressing well enough so at the post op visit with Dr. Schwartz he thought it was a reasonable goal for me to look at the possibility of going cross country skiing by February, 3 months after surgery. That is pretty remarkable considering I am a 71-year-old male, but I am overjoyed. Check out Dr. Schwartz for any shoulder surgeries you may need. I don't think you will be disappointed. read more

My experience with Dr. Schwartz was so atypical for most doctors I have ever had. After being referred to him from Dr. Storey with a torn rotor cuff, I expected the visit to be a surgical visit to get on his surgery schedule. After all, he is a surgeon, right? I couldn't have been more incorrect, Dr. Schwartz advise against the surgery until we tried less evasive methods. To say I was shocked is an understatement. A surgeon who didn't want to do surgery as a first option?? Unfortunately even with trying the other options I did need the surgery, but to know that I had tried other remedies other than just settling for the surgery made me more comfortable with the surgery decision. That should be the end of the story, but I had another injury last month, when I called Dr. Schwartz to see if it was possible related to my shoulder injury. He told me to come up right away to see what was going on. He "fit" me into the schedule the same day. After that visit and diagnoses over the following week, he basically "babysat" me, calling and emailing even over the weekend to see how I was doing. At my last follow appointment I was desperate for a solution to the pain and limited motion I was experiencing due to the muscle tear I had experienced, Dr. Schwartz empathized with me and spent over an hour in the room discussing different options and administering some of the options that he felt might be beneficial. Although some of those options were extremely painful while having them done, they were successful just as Dr. Schwartz had promised,I was in the room well over an hour and Dr. Schwartz refused to leave the room even though there was nothing else he could do except wait for the pain to subside and the medication to take effect. I felt so bad I even ask him to go attend to his other patients/appointments, but he refused , saying that we would get through this "together". I have never experience any physician that took that amount of time and caring for a patient in all of my years of going to doctors. I can only hope that his caring and sincere desire to help his patients will catch on with other physicians, he is certainly in the minority of doctors with that philosophy sadly. I will and do tell friends and family about him and will continue to do so. read more

In March of 2014 I fell off my treadmill and broke my shoulder cap away from the humerous bone. The orthopedic surgeon that I went to at the time said he didn't think surgery would be necessary and that the two bones would reconnect. Well, they didn't and after several appts. with him and doing PT that hurt so bad that I finally quit, i just thought I'd have to live with the pain and an arm that was useless. This past summer at my routine annual physical my doctor referred me to the UW Sports Medicine clinic for some knee problems I was having. The doctor at SMC, after seeing my arm, referred me on to Dr. Schwartz . He said the shoulder/arm problem needed more prompt attention than my knees. Dr. Schwartz had X-rays taken and said that surgery was the only recourse for getting rid of the pain and gaining more use of the arm. He went over the X-rays and explained what he would do in the surgery and answered all the many questions I had. In addition he answered all the questions my overprotective daughter asked. (I apologized for all her questions and he said "it's okay, she just cares!") He didn't rush me into it, told me to think about and if I decided to have the procedure to let him know so he could schedule me for surgery. He gave me a detailed brochure about the surgery and post surgery care. The morning I checked in for the surgery he was there before going into the OR to answer questions and reassure me. Bottom line is, the surgery worked out perfectly. He had to do some "cleanup" in addition to the shoulder replacement (scar tissue etc.) I had no pain and haven't had since. It has been almost three months since surgery and my arm is nearly back to full use. Dr. Schwartz continues with follow-up visits and always spends as much time as necessary to check X-rays, movement, giving me exercises to do and explaining things as I continue to have more movement and strength everyday. I've emailed him several times before and after surgery and I always had answers right away Never had to wait for appointments, always on schedule and always available. I asked my regular physician to refer any shoulder/elbow patients on to Dr. Schwartz because, in my opinion, he is awesome!! read more

In 2017, I had major rotator cuff surgery to repair every tendon in my left shoulder. Considered one of the best shoulder doctors in the Northwest, Dr. Schwartz gave me a frank and candid assessment of my injury, the surgical repair procedure, and a true picture of my post-operative rehab process.  My rotator cuff surgery was a total success and 6 months post-surgery I was back to doing my favorite activities of kitesurfing, biking, gardening, and practicing my yoga. So, in August 2021, I knew who to contact to assess an injury to my right shoulder. After reviewing the X-rays and MRI images, Dr. Schwartz's expert opinion was that my shoulder was so damaged that it could not be repaired. It could however, be replaced. The surgery took 45 minutes, with little post-op pain; I have a small scar, and in 4-6 months I should be fully healed and resuming my favorite activities. There is not enough praise for and thanks to Dr. Schwartz for performing such an amazing surgical procedure. The quality of professional and expert care by him, by Melissa his RN, and his surgical team was exceptional throughout the entire process of diagnosing and surgically replacing my worn out shoulder. Appointments were on time, COVID and health protocols were in place and observed, and all questions, concerns, needs were timely addressed with courtesy and clarity. read more

Leaving a Review here using my wife's account. I myself had a great experience with Dr Dan. In Spring of 2016, I "pulled something" in my left shoulder straining to remove a radiator hose. Forward 6 months and it was not getting better. Went to see Dr Dan - he did MRI, saw micro tears and general mess of a late forties man who has not been very kind to his body - all correct. Said he could do a minor surgery and in 6 months it would be like nothing had ever happened or....I could keep going on and hope for the best. My choice. As nothing had improved over 6 months, I elected surgery. Best thing I ever did - Shoulder is great. Everything came to fruition as he said it would. Flash forward to Feb of 2018 - I slipped on ice and destroyed my right shoulder - complete tear of tendons. due to insurances changes for me, I was unable to utilize his expertise for this one. :( while I was able to get competent surgery elsewhere and am healing just fine now - would definitely have preferred Dr. Dan. To sum up - I completely trust his judgement, he has friendly, no nonsense bedside manner and is a very competent physician. I have no clue what these other folks on yelp reviews are talking about. I totally recommend him. Sincerely, Joe Sauter read more

Dr. Schwartz is an excellent surgeon. Unlike many specialists, he also has an excellent bedside manner. He is caring, reassuring and confident. I first met Dr. Schwartz after fracturing my right shoulder in a fall. He clearly outlined the alternatives and likely outcomes and the results were beyond my expectations, having had an earlier, similar operation on my left shoulder by another surgeon which left me unable to lift my arm beyond shoulder level. Dr. Schwartz schedules regular followups to judge recovery progress and listens carefully to any concerns and addresses those well. He stays up to date with the state of the art and is aware of any recalls or concerns with the prosthetic devices that he uses. About a year after my accident, I had to take my wife to the emergency room after she fell while we were on a walk in a local park. I can't describe the relief that we both felt when we learned that Dr. Schwarz just happened to be on call that day. My wife's experience, except for the fact that her injury concerned her hip and not her shoulder, was exactly like mine. She has made excellent progress and walks normally without pain and without any assist. If you need an orthopedic surgeon in Seattle, look no further. read more

I had a shoulder problem. I was thinking a little arthroscopic surgery and it would be A-Okay. Sadly it turned out the inside of my shoulder was a train wreck needing far more than a little snip here and there. Dr. Schwartz was unbelievably kind and patient helping me to understand what was wrong and the best way to repair the damage. He was supportive throughout the entire process helping me navigate the health care system, getting in and through surgery. About three weeks after the surgery I took an unfortunate spill on a loose carpet and landed face down on the floor. He got me in immediately, X-ray'ed shoulder, saw it was all okay and reassured me there was no damage to the surgery. His concern that I might have done damage was sincere and heart felt. Besides being competent, Dr. Schwartz is caring in a sincere and warm manner beyond what I have experienced with many doctors. He wants the best outcome for his patients and works hard at getting that. I like the Ballard office, it is easy to get in and be seen there and rarely is there any wait. I recommend Dr. Schwartz to anyone needing shoulder care. read more

I came to see Dr. Schwartz after suffering a separated shoulder injury. He did a great job explaining to me what happened, my options (surgery vs rehab) and what to expect. I especially appreciated the care provided post-visit. I bombarded him with a bunch more questions, and he answered every single one of them. I chose to get surgery, but was feeling pretty nervous leading up to the operation, as it was my first one ever. When I wrote to him and his team about this, he called me back within just a couple hours to chat and calm my worries. The other thing that made me feel at ease, is that he focuses on shoulders and elbows. I definitely felt like a shoulder expert was treating me. Eg while many people who had the same operation complain that the implanted button feeling uncomfortable, he used a different type that sits more flush with the bone. As a result, I don't feel any discomfort at all and won't need any follow up surgery to have it taken out. Surgery went fine and now my shoulder is recovering well. If you're looking for a shoulder specialist, definitely recommend Dr. Schwartz and his team. read more

This summer I had my second shoulder surgery with Dr. Schwartz and I was so confident going into surgery (knowing he did such a great job the previous summer with my left shoulder). Dr. Schwartz and his assistant Joy spent time with me going over timelines and got me in so I could rehab quickly & putting my back into competition as soon as possible. Dr Schwartz paid attention to the range, flexibility, and strength I will need out of my new shoulders in order to compete successfully. After my surgery, the follow-up call and office visits were terrific. Again, working with my travel schedule and rehab schedule, I could not have asked for better care. Both Joy and Shelby made my office visits a breeze and had me cracking up every time I came in! I love Dr. Schwartz, without him I would not be able to compete again. Now, with both shoulders fixed, I have never felt better & am ready to take on my sport, full training and anything life brings my way. I would highly recommend Dr. Schwartz and his Team. read more

I have been dealing with shoulder pain and numbness for over 2 and half years now. I have seen multiple doctors and had MRI's that showed nothing. When I saw Dr. Schwartz, he fit me in the same day, with in the hour of my request for an appointment; he was very friendly and comforting. He took the time to thoroughly listen to me explain my symptoms, when most other doctors would interrupt me to explain what they wanted to do ignoring my thoughts. He explained in detail his thoughts about my symptoms and what could be causing them. He has referred me to one of his colleagues for further testing to confirm his diagnosis, as he explained my possible issue can be difficult to diagnosis. I trust his referral, due to his amount of professionalism and his caring personality. He did not make me feel rushed and took his time in coming up with a treatment plan. I would and will continue to recommended him to friends and family. read more

Dr Schwartz is by far one of the best doctors I have ever been to. He is the only one I trust with my arm. He just performed my fourth surgery (first by him) which was a reconstruct/revise my elbow. He is extremely professional however speaks to you like you are a person. Also, (after reading other reviews) I don't think he is one bit vulgar or have terrible bedside manor, I think he is hilarious and enjoy seeing a doctor be human! And he tells you exactly what he thinks and sees, doesn't hold anything back like I have had done before with previous doctors. Also, he is ALWAYS on time which I love and he sits and speaks to you about the problem. Doesn't see you quick and rush out. I highly recommend him to everyone. He is an amazing doctor and surgeon. read more

This was honestly a shocking experience...! I have to admit, I'm a bit of a "doctor shopper" and saw him as a third opinion, DON'T JUDGE ME, and was blown away after maybe 5 minutes! He, wait for it....., listened......he cared......and he was an expert that did not BS but cut to the point. He operated on my shoulder, and fixed what was wrong. He not only operated, but he was an ad-vo-cate. Dr. Schwartz had to call my insurance company to argue with them at times, and I always got the sense that he was on my team. This was about a year ago, but since I have sent him a few friends and everyone has been really happy. I can enthusiastically say, try him out for yourself! I think you'll be happy to know that doctors that still give a $hit exist!!! read more

This summer my daughter, who is a high performance paddler, had her second shoulder surgery with Dr. Schwartz. Due to her level of competition and her need to be at a peak level to stay in the sport, the choice of doctor was very important. Dr. Schwartz, his surgical team along with Joy & Shelby, have provided a very happy girl with 2 new amazing shoulders and terrific care! Her PT who works with Olympic athletes, cannot believe what a great job Dr. Schwartz did on her 1st shoulder repair...she is ahead of schedule on the second! Dr. Schwartz took time with her and worked with her travel schedule after each surgery and Joy always made an one anxious young lady, smile and laugh during visits. Can't say enough...Thank you Dr. Schwartz and Team!!!! read more

Dr. Schwartz is one of the best in the business. He is knowledgeable, compassionate, funny, professional, and not at all bad to look at :). In all seriousness, being in his care has been a wonderful experience. I went to him with what turned out to be frozen shoulder (not a pleasant condition but definitely common). He took a conservative approach (a quick x-ray followed by a cortisone injection), which I appreciated, and my shoulder continues to improve. His staff is friendly, I am always seen on schedule, and Dr. Schwartz takes the time to explain every aspect of my treatment to me. This is how medicine is supposed to be. Thanks to Dr. Schwartz, I will be back to 100% mobility in no time!! read more

Dr. Schwartz is one of the most skilled surgeons in the Pacific NW and I would recommend him in a heartbeat. He has completed two revisions on a shoulder that had multiple prior surgeries. He has always been honest, respectful, informative and has worked with me to create the best outcome. He is reflective and always trying to identify ways he could have an even more successful outcome. I have complete trust in him because of his skill level and his approach with patients. If you are in need of your first repair or revision Dr. Schwartz is well worth the travel to the PolyClinic (I travel from Bellingham). read more

As a long time soccer player with over 50 years of experience, I have unfortunately had my share of soccer related injuries. I have seen several Orthopedists over the years and have to say that I am so glad I saw Dr. Schwartz after a recent injury. He was patient, considerate and thoughtful in his time with me and his analysis. He certainly did not rush me to the idea of surgery. After talking it over, we agreed the best course of action for me was physical therapy. I am back in the game that I love because of his advice. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend him to my friends and soccer buddies. read more

I had been dealing with shoulder pain, lack of movement and numbness in my right hand for years. Dr Schwartz preformed surgery two weeks ago, and I now have full movement of my shoulder,no more pain or limitations and best of all no numbness or tingling in my hand. His team was very professional, helpful and friendly. I couldn't be happier!! read more

Dr. Schwartz was the perfect combination of being personable and professional. Within minutes of meeting him the first time I knew I was in safe hands. He was very knowledgeable and walked me through all of the possibilities in terms of my injury and how to treat it. I would definitely go back to him if needed! read more

Dr. Schwartz did an incredible job with the surgical procedure he performed on my shoulder. I couldn't have been more pleased with his bed side manner, and his precision work. He also did really nice follow ups to make sure that everything was going well and to make sure improvements were happening! Great Doc! read more