I suffered a knee/leg injury while I was vacationing in Maui. An xray at urgent care confirmed tibia fracture and Northshore Orthopedics was able to get me in for an appointment the same day. Dr Soma did what he could until I go back home to get more imaging and see an orthopedist. He drained the fluid around my very swollen knee, virtually painlessly, and put me in a hinged brace. I did not feel rushed during the appointment either. Jamie at the front desk was super nice and helpful too. Thank you Dr Soma and Jaime for taking care of me! read more

A Specialist taking my call on his holiday - CHECK! A Specialist taking my call late on the day on a Friday - CHECK! A Specialist fitting me in before anyone else on his first day back to work - CHECK! A fantastic value, quality of care, and experience to boot - PRICELESS! I'm over the moon that Dr Soma put me first in his brand new South Maui office with an ultrasound and the expertise to get me looked at and secure an MRI within my Kaiser doctors pronto to care for me. Truly honored and blessed to have Doctor Soma care for me and would highly recommend. A true asset to our Maui community! read more

Out of three doctors on Maui nobody could take care of my wrist getting a Cortizone shot so perfectly the first time and if anybody understands that they know. He is amazing and I have bursitis in my rotator cuff and he hit the right spot for a Cortizone shot again. Amazing!!! I won't ever go to another doctor again. Go see Cas. He's the best. I had to fly to Oahu to get this done before and now he is in Kihei. read more

North Shore Orthopedics I can't say enough good things about Dr. Charles Soma. Today he really helped me by relieving my pain, and I left the office feeling so much better. He is not only knowledgeable and skilled at what he does, but also kind, caring, and truly attentive to his patients. I always feel like I'm in great hands with him, and today was no exception-- If you're looking for an orthopedic doctor who genuinely cares and knows how to take care of you, I highly recommend Dr. Charles Soma . read more

We live on the west side and my daughter broke her wrist on a Saturday night a few days before the holidays. We expected it to take many days if not weeks to get in touch with an orthopedic specialist but Dr. Soma got out of bed to meet us at his office that very night. Wow! We got in touch with Dr. Soma on our drive from the west side and he was waiting for us when we arrived. His calm and reassuring demeanor meant so much for us and our daughter who was scared and in pain. He was able to do an x-ray and set her cast within 30 minutes. We are so grateful to Dr. Soma and would absolutely recommend him to anyone needing orthopedic care on Maui. Mahalo Dr. Soma! read more

When I went to see Dr. Soma in mid-2025, I was beside myself and had tried everything to lose weight. I was about 50 pounds overweight, and for me, that was huge. I tried everything over the course of five years, and nothing worked. I would go up and down, but I never got back to my goal weight. I am 62, so losing the weight I had gained was difficult, and I just needed a kick-start. I decided to try the Tirzepatide for a short time. It really helped kick-start my weight loss. I started walking up to 3 miles a day and eating right (changed my diet completely). I lost all of the weight and then some. What a difference now. I was able to get off all medication, including blood pressure medication. I feel better than I have ever felt. The key is staying active and eating right, but without Dr. Soma's help, I would still be stuck. When no one else could help, and the cost of the drug was over $1000.00 because insurance doesn't cover it for weight, Dr. Soma made it possible for me to afford it. read more

This is a review about how they manage their practice, and how they book appointments, not about the professional services rendered. My partner had a foot injury and was in acute pain and looked on the website and was able to book an immediate appointment. We live in Haiku and drove to Wailuku to make the appointment within the hour when we got there the office was Locked and they did not appear to be anybody in the building. We came back 15 minutes later maybe we missed the time or there was some confusion it was still locked Not only did we waste gas and time driving there, but my partner's treatment was also delayed unnecessarily. Word of mouth I receive from someone in the complex said that other people have complained that they've made appointments at the practice showed up. We Followed up with the administrative staff we were told that booking an appointment online just means that someone from the practice will call you to verify the appointment. ( We Disagree with this statement) It did not appear that way from what saw from on The website and the software's appointment booking tools. This is really a problem that should be addressed by the practice and if you use the online system to book an appointment, it May Not Be Accurate so don't drive to the appointment without speaking to someone on the phone first to verify it. read more

Doctor Soma, has been an amazing individual. He is helped me when I desperately needed it. He's all about health and fitness and looks out for the best interest of his patience.. read more

Great service, and everyone was friendly awesome! Was able to get my son x-rayed and checked to switch over to a water friendlier and shorter cast for his wrist. Dr. Soma took his time questioning the injury background and showed care and caution to make sure my son was safe to shift over to something that will let him enjoy his vacation here on short notice. Great experience overall. read more

Not the best bed side manners . Speaking from an experience many many years ago with this doctor . He felt it ok to be cynical and rude to me on 2 different occasions that I truly do not forget . Who forgets bad experiences . I would never choose him again . read more

I was referred to NSO by Minit Medical Lahaina as I broke my finger and ankle in a fall. It was easy to get an appointment quickly with NSO and they were easy to find with free parking right outside. The 2 female members of staff I interacted with were very professional and friendly and happy to chat and laugh which always makes a Dr's appointment easier. Thank you ladies ;) Dr Soma was shy and took a very quick glance at my finger and made an instant diagnosis of mallet finger, and gave me a splint to wear. Everything seemed fine and he also checked out my knee to make sure nothing was wrong with it as it was still aching after my fall where I skinned it. We also talked about back pain and he suggested a few methods of pain treatment. When I got home I looked up mallet finger online and realized it was a misdiagnosis. My Minit Medical notes from the radiographer noted that I had an avulsion fracture (the ligament tears away from the bone and take a piece of bone with it). I knew there was something different as with mallet finger you can't raise the end of your finger, and mine was fine, it was the middle knuckle that was swollen and wouldn't bend. I'm sure if Dr Soma had actually taken a proper look at my finger or touched it and moved it he would have realized the difference. Luckily I've been taping the finger since my Minit Medical visit so have done the right thing to help it mend. read more

great doctor,profesional and very healing,recomend him highly ,A top level physician,Allways avai

Soma is Reckless, negligent, arrogant, rude. Go to Orthopedic Associates of Honolulu. It's better to fly than die.

Dr.Soma came highly recommended-responsive- reviewed medical history- provided immediate pain relief to my daughter- snacks and water in lobby- easy free parking-Emily at front desk was exceptional. read more

I never wrote reviews but had to this time for sure Dr Soma is the best orthopedic surgeon there is I recently tore my ACL completely and have an MCL tear stage 2 I've been getting PRP injections and it's been 3 months and my knee is almost perfectly normal no surgery needed it's well worth having it done I can say for sure who wants to go through surgery when PRP can help. I've been a nurse for years and no doctors and Doctor Soma is the most informed intelligent able to explain physician I have ever met read more

Worst Experience Ever. Please save yourself from getting surgery from the hands of Dr Soma. He overstated his abilities, got in over his head in surgery, and then worried more about a lawsuit than the concerns of his patient. He has a cookie cutter answer about all of the bad reviews he has online. Blames it on everyone but himself. Check Yelp and Web MD. However I can attest first hand. The reviews have truth. This is a horrible surgeon. read more

I was able to get in with these folks very quickly, as my clinic had a 1.5 month wait, and I was in great pain. I could barely walk. On the 1st visit, they gave me a steroid injection in the troubled knee, and it was like magic; instant relief! That may not seem like much to some people, but it was a game changer for me. The doctor and the PA there are good, solid folks and the staff is great! read more

Dr Soma and his staff were extremely friendly, thorough and efficient. It started with the office staff calling ME three times to set my appointment. They were friendly and clear with instructions. Then upon arriving the reception was friendly, kind and personable. Dr. Soma was cheerful and had a way of putting my worries at ease. I feel good about my prognosis and instructions. I would have given 5 stars but the waiting area is small and dated. I know space on Maui is expensive and limited so it can be challenging. Thank everyone for making what I thought was going to be horrible, a.pleasant experience. The Heather Brown art in my room was a nice to. I eventually saw the PA Scott. Totally amazing person. He really understands the limits and potential of my injury. Scott always was up to date and knowledgeable about where I was in treatment. The nurses and staff are extremely friendly and fun. I'm fixed and will miss them. read more

Good Morning... Always on time for my appointments... only to have to wait for a minimum of 1 to 2.5 hours before being seen. They are always busy... nevertheless they assist you... .. If I could rate everything.. scheduling.. staff.. surgery.. concern.. sympathy.. with a grade now days it would be a... B+.... Mahalo.. read more

I'm in total agreement with all the negative reviews and if I could give 0-stars I would. My experience was similar to Alexandra from Seattle, although I do not have a history of treatment for my knee or back. After briefly explaining my condition to Dr. Soma and that I have not seen an orthopedic doctor ever for my knee and for my back it's been over 25 years, he then looked at my knee MRI and proceeded to ramble on using all kinds of technical terminology. When I asked a question, he rudely told me to "be quiet" and "stop talking". Then he proceeded to lift up the back of his shirt to show me his back surgery incision and then show me his x-rays. I was thinking to myself, what is wrong with him? But, I just sat there not knowing what to do or say. I've never felt that uncomfortable ever at the the Doctors. Later, without even examining my knee or back, I was accused of "knowing nothing" and although I didn't speak, he told me to "stop arguing" with him. I could tell he was agitated when he initially entered the room. He complained it was too cold and then turned off the A/C and then after insulting me numerous times, he angrily tried to turn the A/C back on. We were alone in the room and I was thinking, is this for real?? I am a very polite and courteous person and I've never, I mean NEVER been treated like that by any kind of health care professional. When he stepped out of the room, the nurse came in and I had to ask her, if the Doctor was alright. I could tell she didn't want to discuss his bizarre mood, but I could tell she knew what I was talking about. Later he came back in and then diagnosed me with neuropathy and prescribed me Gabapentin. And I was like...ok, that's it? Anyway, I just had to share my experience, because something is definitely wrong with Dr Soma and I think he needs medication. I would hate for him to have one of his bizarre episodes during anyones surgery. So, beware! I agree with the others...run away as fast as you can!! read more

Excellent service and friendly staff. I felt comfortable and confident in the care being provided.

Scott Smith is the best! Very professional! He is kind, considerate, caring, answered all my questions, and offered great service. I highly recommend Scott and the team. He will definitely be my go-to doctor for future needs. read more

What a great place... general medicine combined with expert orthopedic care! Scott Smith the PA has great bedside manner, friendly, communicative and explains things in simple english. He helped me rid of my knee pain for good! Thank you Scott! read more

Dr Soma to the rescue (again)!!! I am so grateful. I called his office in pain and panic. They were able to fit me in that same day. - Dr Soma was caring, listened attentively to my concerns, and was excellent with his diagnosis. I was extremely anxious about the pain involved in getting 4 shots to my knees. Dr Soma gave me extra anesthetic and his skill was evident. I couldn't believe how minimal the pain was and how excellent the results were. He was patient, caring and genuinely concerned about helping me regain my quality of life! Whether you are a visitor or resident, I highly recommend Dr. Soma. **Additionally, from the office to shots extremely stringent safety measures to ensure patients safety, in light of Covid. read more

I waisted 2 months seeking care for my hip to no avail. They fumbled every step of the process from requesting medical records to submitting insurance claims. It left me months later needing to start over with a new doctor (and a bill to boot). I would recommend you seek medical care elsewhere. read more

While vacationing in Maui, Dec '21. I slipped on a hike breaking my ankle was carried out by paramedics. This was on day 3 of 10 day stay where the ER placed a temporary splint. I found the dr by location and was able to get in within the hour of my phone call the next day of the fall. The staff was very kind and friendly. The Dr not so much. However, he did place a waterproof cast and increased pain meds so I could enjoy the rest of my stay. As the dr was placing cast I told him its very tight around my calf and concerned of a torniquet due to the swelling below my ankle. When asking if that's ok ? He pretty much told me to shut up and listen to the music. Which I did for fear of him making it tighter. I wore that cast for 2-1/2 months even after returning to the main land. He didnt charge my insurance a crazy amount and my copay to him I cant pay as their system has been down, several calls and finally told to mail a check in Mar '22. read more

North Shore Orthopedics, Dr. Soma, Scot Smith and all the staff are great. I have seen Dr. Soma and Scot Smith as a patient and have been working with them as a healthcare practioner for over 20 years. Best orthopedic surgeon on Maui. I recommend North Shore Orthopedics to all of my clients who need surgery. Matt Harman PT read more

When I fell and broke my hip in November 2019 I went to Maui Memorial Hospital Emergency Room and was admitted as a patient. That is when I was introduced to Dr. Charles Soma. He performed the surgery that gave me my life back. His incision was perfect and disappeared within weeks of the surgery. It never got infected or even painful. I never needed medication for pain and the wound healed quickly. It's only 11 weeks now and I am restored. He has a positive personality and every one who works in his office reflects his generosity. Instead of a scary experience in my life, he made my surgery a pleasant memory. That is why I give Dr. Soma a 5 Star review. Thank you so very much! read more

Scott Smith (PA) has administered top notch healthcare on multiple occasions for me. He's helped with sports injuries and illnesses. He's my go-to professional any time I need help and I would and do recommend him to everyone. read more

Doctor soma is an awesome physician, I'm a current patient and I had an emergency after office hours. He called me personally and meet me at his office to treat me. He opened it just for me! This was on a Friday night after 6:00pm. He was caring and professional, I apologized for calling him but just wanted to help. This is a real caring physician (not for money), very compassionate and professional. He could just have referred me to the hospital or urgent care and he really didn't have to help. Most physician don't open their office just for you or see you after hours. I more than recommended him. Don't bother with other physicians they only care about the money not patients. He is very proficient. read more

If I could give Charles Soma zero stars, I would. I decided to see Mr. Soma because my knee has been bothering me for a long time and I thought it would be good to establish care with someone on island after moving here from Washington State. After waiting an hour and a half for Mr. Soma, which he did not apologize for or even acknowledge, he told me that I had given him too much information to read (I bring in my medical history so I don't have to write it down) while also chastising me for not getting him my lifetime of orthopedic records before my appointment. He said I was "OCD", which is not only as an incredibly rude thing to say, it is also diagnostically incorrect. He then said he could tell "just by looking at me" that there was nothing wrong with my knee that could not be fixed with exercise and a good attitude. Hmm, my critically-acclaimed orthopedic surgeon from Washington told me, before he moved to another state, to have my knee evaluated if I ever started having regular pain. (I have regular pain and my knee is unstable, so I went to see someone!) I disagreed with Mr. Soma and then he accused me of not doing PT after my 3 prior knee surgeries, which I did, and after I told him I wasn't going to work with him, he said loudly to his assistant that they "should make good notes on this one." I am a highly intelligent, well-educated woman who knows a lot about medicine. I see some of the best specialists on the West Coast for other medical conditions I have. They consider me to to be an excellent patient who can collaborate with them to work through complex medical problems. Mr. Soma is one of those doctors who thinks you should treat him like he is a god because he went to medical school. He is patronizing, dismissive, and couldn't deal with being challenged by someone as smart as or smarter than he is. He may be a decent surgeon, but I wouldn't ever put up with that attitude. I hope you don't either. Note: I did call Charles Soma "Dr." because he did not act like one and he gave me no medical help. He does not deserve the title. read more

Dr. Soma is the smartest,best surgeon, we're lucky to have him on Maui. I trusted him with my life and the results were OUTSTANDING!! Great staff the ladies, (and guys) are always pleasant and helpful on the phone. He's the best, so sometimes you have a wait, but it so worth it. read more

Beware ! Soma has "opted out" of Medicare. This means that you will have to pay thousands of dollars that your Medicare insurance would have covered if this greedy man had not opted out. I did not know this, I was in an accident and required emergency care, I had no say in who did my surgery. Soma is arrogant, defensive and has zero communication skills. I'm sure he is an ok surgeon, nothing special but nothing too bad, although his approach is very cavalier. read more

Physician Associate Scott Smith s a very kind and thorough physician who is genuinely attentive to his patients concerns and questions regarding their injury/issue. Office visits include a physical assessment, valuable education specific to body part, various treatment options and explanation of diagnostics (X-ray & MRI). I liked his conservative approach to treatment plans and not immediately recommending surgery if it's not necessary. He had a lot of experiences through his own personal injuries that gave insight and knowledge regarding realistic healing times & recovery. I highly recommend North Shore Orthopedics. read more

Waited for an hour, filled out multiple forms that were the exact same questionnaires, only to be belittled by the Dr. Had to repeat myself over and over again when asked the same question. The nurse was nice enough, but it felt like she was trying to be the Dr and neither of them listened to what I was explaining. Was referred here. Will never be back if I can help it. read more

I always expect a Dr visit to include a bit of a wait. It is currently 2:15 and I am still waiting to see Dr Soma for a 10:00 in the morning appointment. The gentleman next to me had an 11:00. I find this RUDE and inexcusable. To those who suffer, heed my warning. A visit to Dr Soma will only add to the pain. I would not have given even one star but it was the only way to post this warning. read more

My experience going to see Dr. Soma was nothing but great. He is very caring and takes his time with you explaining what is going on with your body/injury. I highly recommend him if you are in need of an orthopedic surgeon! read more

I was so fortunate to find this very competent and friendly orthopedic practice. I had such a terrible experience at Maui medical Group I decided to seek out another opinion. I came across North Shore Orthopedics and was able to schedule an appointment the next day! (I did not have to wait 2 weeks as I had at MMG.) I did have to wait a bit for the PA, Scott Smith, as he was with another patient. After meeting him, however, I realize why I had to wait: he actually takes time to listen to his patients and talk with them about their history. Mr. Smith had a great bed side manner and good sense of humor which made the overall appointment painless. Scott Smith knows what he is doing AND he knows patient care. The office staff was also glad to help me with billing issues and very friendly. This experience was such a stark contrast to Maui Medical Group that I sure hope more individuals who actually need orthopedic care find their way to North Shore. Kudos to Scott Smith and the staff of North Shore for putting patient care first! read more

Physicians are great but the wait time is ridiculous. Plan on being at the minimum 1 hour late

My work as a tile and stone setter for the past 25 years really took its toll on my knees. A few years back, I fell and smashed my right knee. After that it was never quite the same. Over the next few years, I continued to work and the pain just continued to get worse. I had made appointments with orthopedic Dr's here on Maui but always left the office more confused as to what my options were. I was referred to Dr. Soma by my doctor. I was greeted warmly by the front office staff and met with Margaret to discuss my issues. I admit I went in with a cynical attitude due to my previous meetings with other orthopedic professionals here on Maui. The other doctors made me feel like I wasn't important enough to take care of and shined me off with pain mess or the temporary shot in the knee. Margaret put me completely at ease,she was so professional but with a down-to-earth kinda vibe. She listened to everything I had to say, and assured me Dr. Soma could help me. Over the next few appointments Dr. Soma laid out my options and I chose the arthroscopic surgery. The staff set everything up,it was a piece of cake. Everything was explained to me clearly. The surgery went well and the doctor and everyone else were always positive and encouraging. It's been 3 months now and I can do everything with very little pain. I have two young boys and keeping up with them is much easier now. I even went for a run yesterday. Thank you thank Dr. Soma. Karissa in the front office can make your day just by saying good morning. You guys rock.Thank you again Dr. Soma. aloha,marc read more