Referral requirements vary by insurance plan. Many plans allow direct access to orthopedic specialists, while others require a referral from your primary care physician. Our office staff can verify your specific plan requirements when you call to schedule at (484) 526-1735.

Recovery follows a structured, milestone-based protocol: independent walking by 4–6 weeks, jogging at 3–4 months, sport-specific training at 5–6 months, and return to competition at 8–12 months. Dr. Hendel monitors objective criteria at each stage before advancing activity. Individual timelines vary based on graft selection, sport demands, and biological healing.

Yes. Non-operative management is the first line of treatment for the majority of musculoskeletal conditions — physical therapy, corticosteroid and hyaluronic acid injections, PRP therapy, bracing, and activity modification. Surgery is discussed only when conservative treatment has not achieved adequate improvement or when the injury warrants operative management for the best functional outcome.

HSS has been ranked the #1 orthopedic hospital in the United States by U.S. News & World Report for over 14 consecutive years, with one of the highest surgical volumes in the country and subspecialty-focused faculty. Dr. Hendel completed both his five-year residency and his sports medicine fellowship at HSS — a depth of training at a single elite institution that is uncommon among surgeons practicing in the region.

New patient consultations are typically available within one to two weeks, and acute injuries and fractures can often be accommodated within 24–48 hours — same-day appointments are often available when Dr. Hendel is in the office. Call (484) 526-1735, schedule online through St. Luke’s, or submit a request through the form below. Please bring any existing imaging (X-rays, MRI) to your appointment.

Yes. Dr. Hendel evaluates and treats athletes across all age groups. Injuries in pediatric and adolescent patients require particular attention to skeletal maturity and growth plate status — his sports medicine fellowship training and professional-athlete experience ensure a high standard of care at every age and competition level.

Dr. Hendel participates with most major carriers through St. Luke’s University Health Network, including Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield/Highmark, Cigna, Geisinger Health Plan, Medicare, United Healthcare/Optum, TRICARE, and Workers’ Compensation. Please contact our office to confirm coverage and authorization requirements for your specific plan.