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Indiana Orthopedic Institute expands elite team with respected hip and knee expert

Dr. Carlos Belmar brings more than three decades of experience

Indianapolis, IN [June 12, 2025] – Indiana Orthopedic Institute (IOI) is excited to welcome Dr. Carlos Belmar, a joint replacement surgeon and one of the nation’s experts in advanced outpatient technique to its Terre Haute office at Union Health. Dr. Belmar brings over 30 years of experience to the Wabash Valley—and a legacy of surgical excellence—to the IOI team.

Dr. Belmar was one of the first surgeons in Indiana to use FDA-approved Onkos 3D-printed custom implants for complex knee revisions and has decades of expertise in both primary and revision hip and knee replacement surgeries, periprosthetic fracture management and computer-navigated procedures.

Dr. Belmar joins IOI from Union Medical Group Bone and Joint Center in Terre Haute, where he also served as an assistant professor at the Indiana University School of Medicine. A graduate of the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine and a fellowship-trained specialist in adult reconstructive surgery from the University of Pennsylvania, Dr. Belmar has contributed extensively to orthopedic research and education throughout his career.

“Dr. Belmar’s arrival marks an exciting new chapter for IOI,” said Dr. Michael Meneghini, founder and CEO of Indiana Orthopedic Institute. “His expertise and experience in joint replacement will elevate our capabilities and bring transformative care to the patients we proudly serve.”

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Belmar, call (812) 900-7544.

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About Indiana Orthopedic Institute
The Indiana Orthopedic Institute (IOI) is a premier provider of advanced orthopedic care specializing in hip and knee replacement and offering hand, elbow, shoulder, foot, ankle and fracture care. Founded and led by Dr. Michael Meneghini, IOI is committed to delivering innovative, patient centered care focused on surgical excellence, education and research. With multiple locations across Indiana including Terre Haute, Fort Wayne and the new flagship facility in Noblesville, our highly skilled providers and surgeons manage the entire continuum of care seamlessly, from initial evaluation and non-surgical treatments to surgical procedures and recovery.

The state-of-the-art flagship center offers a comprehensive, patient-focused orthopedic experience, featuring the latest advancements in musculoskeletal (MSK) care with a multi-disciplinary team approach of nationally and internationally recognized surgical, anesthesia and perioperative medical providers ensuring our patients receive their care in the safest possible environment with superior outcomes. The facility includes an ambulatory surgery center with four operating rooms, a dedicated orthopedic clinic with 20 exam rooms, therapy services, x-ray imaging, and a cutting-edge research gait lab. An on-site education and research conference center further reflects IOI’s commitment to innovation and clinical excellence.

IOI leverages a fully integrated suite of digital solutions to optimize provider efficiency and elevate patient care, in partnership with Healthcare Outcomes Performance Company (HOPCo) – the leading national provider of MSK practice management and clinical outcomes, and the largest orthopedic value-based care organization in the United States. This partnership enables IOI to deliver high-quality, cost-effective care tailored for success in today’s value-based healthcare environment.

For more information, please visit indianaortho.com or call (317) 620-0232.

About Healthcare Outcomes Performance Company (HOPCo)

Healthcare Outcomes Performance Company (HOPCo) is the national leader of integrated musculoskeletal value-based health outcomes management, practice management and health system service line management. This includes comprehensive expertise across all MSK specialties, including orthopedics, spine, neurosurgery, hand, pain management, rehabilitation and neurology. HOPCo’s integrated care, analytics and facilities development and management platforms have proven to increase the quality of patient care while reliably reducing the total cost of care across the care continuum for practices, health systems and payors alike. HOPCo’s affiliated payors, practices and health systems successfully participate in highly efficient value-based contracting (bundled payments, chronic episodes of care initiatives, population health programs and other advanced risk-based arrangements) utilizing HOPCo’s proprietary platforms, IT solutions, integrated analytics and evidence-based comprehensive care pathways. Visit https://hopco.com to learn more.

Mother and daughter undergo life-changing hip replacements weeks apart sharing a journey of healing and resilience at Indiana Orthopedic Institute

Hip surgeries for mother and daughter spotlight personalized orthopedic care

Noblesville, IN – (May 28, 2025) – It’s not every day that a mother and daughter take a journey to healing side by side. However, that’s exactly what happened at Indiana Orthopedic Institute (IOI) when a local mom and her 30-year-old daughter underwent life-changing hip replacement surgeries just four weeks apart – both performed by the same surgeon.

Dr. R. Michael Meneghini, a nationally and internationally recognized orthopedic surgeon, as well as founder and CEO of the Indiana Orthopedic Institute (IOI), led both procedures and is now overseeing their joint recovery. The daughter, only 30 years old, faced debilitating congenital hip dysplasia and early-onset arthritis—conditions typically seen in older adults. Her mother, who underwent surgery a month prior, placed her trust in Dr. Meneghini and his team at IOI.

“They were both resilient and determined, and I feel honored that they chose me to perform their surgeries,” said Dr. Meneghini. “What struck me most was the daughter’s incredible progress—she felt well enough after surgery to join her mother at her post-operative appointment the very next day.”

Shelly Hicks, RN, Clinical Operations Manager, added, “It’s not every day we see a mother and daughter go through major joint replacement within weeks of each other. It’s inspiring to see them support one another through such an important part of their lives.”

While these two procedures took place prior to the official opening of IOI’s ambulatory surgery center, they exemplify the high level of personalized, advanced orthopedic care that patients can now expect at IOI’s newly opened, state-of-the-art facility. Now fully licensed and accredited, IOI’s flagship Noblesville campus is poised to deliver surgeries just like these in the very near future—marking an exciting milestone in patient-centered musculoskeletal care for the region.

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About Indiana Orthopedic Institute
The Indiana Orthopedic Institute (IOI) is a premier provider of advanced orthopedic care specializing in hip and knee replacement and offering hand, elbow, shoulder, foot, ankle and fracture care. Founded and led by Dr. Michael Meneghini, IOI is committed to delivering innovative, patient centered care focused on surgical excellence, education, and research. With multiple locations across Indiana including Terre Haute, Fort Wayne, and the new flagship facility in Noblesville, our highly skilled providers and surgeons manage the entire continuum of care seamlessly, from initial evaluation and non-surgical treatments to surgical procedures and recovery.

The state-of-the-art flagship center offers a comprehensive, patient-focused orthopedic experience, featuring the latest advancements in musculoskeletal (MSK) care with a multi-disciplinary team approach of nationally and internationally recognized surgical, anesthesia, and perioperative medical providers ensuring our patients receive their care in the safest possible environment with superior outcomes. The facility includes an ambulatory surgery center with four operating rooms, a dedicated orthopedic clinic with 20 exam rooms, therapy services, x-ray imaging, and a cutting-edge research gait lab. An on-site education and research conference center further reflects IOI’s commitment to innovation and clinical excellence.

About Healthcare Outcomes Performance Company (HOPCo)

Media Contact:

Annebeth Ahrenholz
Communications Specialist
Healthcare Outcomes Performance Company
annebeth.ahrenholz@hopco.com

Indiana Orthopedic Institute achieves accreditation with Accreditation Commission for Health Care

NOBLESVILLE, IN (May 22, 2025) – Indiana Orthopedic Institute (IOI) is proud to announce that its surgery center located in the new flagship facility has recently earned formal recognition from the Accreditation Commission for Health Care (ACHC). This distinction confirms that IOI is fully licensed by the state of Indiana and meets both state and federal standards for safety and quality.

Earlier this year, IOI completed construction of its new, state-of-the-art, 38,000-square-foot medical office center – a $35 million investment in the Noblesville community. The facility officially opened its doors on February 13 and since then, has been welcoming patients in preparation for this milestone. IOI providers began seeing patients in the physician clinic and have been preparing to launch surgical services, ensuring all processes met the rigorous requirements for licensure and quality assurance.

Accreditation is a process through which healthcare organizations demonstrate compliance with national standards. Accreditation by ACHC reflects an organization’s dedication and commitment to meeting standards that facilitate a higher level of performance and patient care.

ACHC is a nonprofit organization that has stood as a symbol of quality and excellence since 1986. ACHC is ISO 9001:2015 certified and has CMS deeming authority for Home Health, Hospice and DMEPOS. ACHC also has deeming authority for Acute Care Hospitals, Critical Access Hospitals, Ambulatory Surgery Centers as well as Clinical Laboratory.

IOI is proud to serve communities across Central Indiana with cutting-edge, patient-centered orthopedic care. Designed as the “orthopedic hospital of the future,” IOI’s flagship facility brings together expert clinical teams, innovative technology, and a steadfast commitment to excellence – all under one roof. What distinguishes IOI is its mission to reimagine every aspect of orthopedic care – from diagnosis through recovery – using a model built on efficiency, compassion, and innovation.

“Achieving this recognition is the next important milestone in demonstrating the high standards we uphold,” said Dr. Michael Meneghini, founder and CEO of IOI. “It stands as a testament to our dedication to excellence and reassures our patients that they are receiving care at one of the premier orthopedic centers in Indiana and through the Midwest.”

For more information, please visit https://www.indianaortho.com/, or contact us at 317.620.0232.

Reducing Arthritis Joint Pain and Staying Active During the Warmer Months

Temperatures are on the rise and people living with arthritis may start to notice some changes in how their joints feel. Whether living with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or another type of chronic joint condition, understanding how weather changes affect arthritis pain—and how to manage it—can help you stay active and feel your best.

Beautiful woman, senior, running in headphones, walking in the park, playing sports

In this blog, we’ll cover key areas to help you reduce arthritis pain, improve mobility, and maintain a healthy, active lifestyle:

What Is Arthritis?

Arthritis is a common condition that causes inflammation in the joints, leading to pain, stiffness and swelling. The three most common types of arthritis include:

Osteoarthritis (OA): Caused by wear and tear on joint cartilage.

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA): An autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks healthy joint tissue.

Psoriatic Arthritis: Affects people with psoriasis, a common skin condition. Key aspects of psoriatic arthritis are autoimmune diseases, joint pain and inflammation in the joints.

Common symptoms of arthritis include joint pain and stiffness, swollen joints, reduced range of motion and fatigue. These symptoms can be experienced in one or more joints and may be accompanied by redness, warmth and tenderness. Understanding the type of arthritis you have is the first step toward managing it effectively—especially as the seasons change. While arthritis is often thought of as a “cold weather” condition, many people report flare-ups during the summer months as well.

How Does Warm Weather Affect Arthritis?

For some individuals, warmer weather may ease arthritis pain, while others notice an increase in stiffness or discomfort. A few common ways that warm weather impacts arthritis include:

Barometric pressure changes: Makes joints feel more swollen or sensitive. Fluctuations in barometric pressure can cause joint tissues to expand or contract, leading to increased pain or stiffness.

High humidity: Increases stiffness and inflammation, especially in people with autoimmune forms of arthritis.

Hot temperatures: Can lead to dehydration and may exacerbate joint pain or cramping.

In some cases, sunlight and warmth can promote circulation and muscle relaxation, which can make movement easier in the body. Keeping a symptom journal can help individuals track how the body responds to different weather conditions. With that knowledge, it is possible to tweak routines to match what the body’s joints need most.

How to Reduce Arthritis Pain and Stay Active in Summer

Staying active is one of the most effective ways to relieve joint pain naturally and improve overall joint health during summer months. In warmer weather, it is especially important to choose arthritis-friendly exercises and habits that support the body. This can include low-impact activities like walking, swimming, cycling and water aerobics. These are all excellent options that minimize stress on the joints and keep your body moving. A common goal is to aim for at least 20–30 minutes of physical activity per day, five days a week.

In addition to regular movement, incorporating gentle mobility exercises and light resistance training can help improve flexibility and strengthen the muscles that support joints. Applying heat – such as a warm towel or heating pad—before exercising can help loosen stiff joints, and using a cold pack afterward may reduce inflammation and discomfort.

Staying well hydrated is also crucial, especially in hot weather. It is important to drink plenty of water and eat anti-inflammatory foods like leafy greens, berries, fatty fish (such as salmon), nuts and olive oil to support joint health.

Wearing supportive gear is essential for managing arthritis symptoms and maintaining joint health. This includes choosing proper footwear and using braces or compression sleeves when needed, as they can provide extra stability and reduce strain on your joints throughout the day.

Incorporating these supportive measures into your daily routine can help alleviate discomfort and promote joint health, enabling individuals to stay active and comfortable throughout the day.

When to See a Doctor for Arthritis Pain

In some cases, it is important to visit your healthcare provider to manage arthritis pain. Persistent joint pain, swelling that does not diminish, and stiffness interfering with daily activities are indicators that professional medical evaluation is necessary. These symptoms may signal underlying conditions such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, which require timely diagnosis and management to prevent further joint damage.

Healthcare providers can offer a comprehensive diagnosis and discuss various treatment options tailored to individual needs. These may include physical or occupational therapy to enhance joint function and mobility, prescription medications to control inflammation, corticosteroid injections for short-term relief, and, in some cases, referrals to specialists like rheumatologists or orthopedic doctors.

Early intervention is crucial in managing joint health effectively. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent further joint damage, improve quality of life and help maintain independence in daily activities.

Conclusion

Managing arthritis in warmer weather doesn’t have to be a struggle. With the right combination of exercise, hydration, joint care, and professional support, it is possible to reduce discomfort, increase energy and stay mobile all season long.

If you’re looking for more ways to manage your arthritis symptoms, talk to your doctor about creating a personalized treatment plan that supports your health goals.

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Indiana Orthopedic Institute surgeon performs groundbreaking knee procedure on fellow colleague

Device used during surgery co-designed by both surgeons

NOBLESVILLE, IN (May 13, 2025) — Dr. Michael Meneghini, a nationally recognized leader in joint replacement and the CEO and founder of the Indiana Orthopedic Institute (IOI), recently performed a partial knee replacement using the Enovis EMPOWR Partial Knee®—a device he co-designed. What made this procedure especially meaningful was the patient: Dr. Brian Palumbo, a fellow nationally renowned hip and knee surgeon based in Florida, who also contributed to the development of the implant that was used.

Co-developed with Enovis, the EMPOWR Partial Knee® represents a major advancement in personalized joint replacement technology. Dr. Meneghini’s dual role as designer and surgeon underscores IOI’s deep commitment to innovation, clinical excellence, and advancing the field of orthopedics.

“This experience was more than just a surgical procedure; it was the culmination of years of research, design, and clinical expertise,” said Dr. Meneghini, CEO of Indiana Orthopedic Institute and Chief Market Development Officer at HOPCo. “Being entrusted with the care of a fellow orthopedic surgeon is one of the highest professional honors and speaks volumes about the quality of care we provide at Indiana Orthopedic Institute.”

Indiana Orthopedic Institute is nationally recognized for its evidence-based care pathways, specialized physician leadership and exceptional patient outcomes. Dr. Palumbo’s decision to travel to Indiana for his surgery reflects IOI’s growing reputation as a destination for advanced joint preservation and replacement care.

The EMPOWR Partial Knee® implant aims to provide a less invasive option for knee replacement. It’s designed to replace only the damaged part of your knee, preserving as much healthy bone and tissue as possible. This approach helps maintain more of the patient’s natural knee function and can lead to a quicker recovery. The implant is shaped to mimic the natural contours in the knee, allowing for smoother motion and a more natural feel. It uses a special plastic blended with vitamin E to reduce wear and tear over time, enhancing the implant’s longevity. The design allows for a streamlined surgical process, which can reduce hospital stays and recovery time.

“When considering treatment options, I gained a whole new perspective on what our patients go through,” said Dr. Palumbo, Orthopedic Surgeon at Florida Orthopedic Institute and President of Actuos Med. “When the injections stopped working, I knew I was a good candidate for a partial knee replacement and I began to question who I trusted to do it. Choosing the best option for my own health mirrored the decisions I help my patients make every day. Now, being back in the gym and not constantly thinking about my knee, I realize this experience has given me a fresh perspective. I believe it’s made me a better hip and knee surgeon.”

To learn more about Indiana Orthopedic Institute’s advanced joint replacement services or to schedule an appointment, call (317) 620-0232.

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About Indiana Orthopedic Institute 
The Indiana Orthopedic Institute (IOI) is a premier provider of advanced orthopedic care specializing in hip and knee replacement and offering hand, elbow, shoulder, foot, ankle, and fracture care. Founded and led by Dr. Michael Meneghini, IOI is committed to delivering innovative, patient centered care focused on surgical excellence, education, and research.  With multiple locations across Indiana including Terre Haute, Fort Wayne, and the new flagship facility in Noblesville, our highly skilled providers and surgeons manage the entire continuum of care seamlessly, from initial evaluation and non-surgical treatments to surgical procedures and recovery.  

The state-of-the-art flagship center offers a comprehensive, patient-focused orthopedic experience, featuring the latest advancements in musculoskeletal (MSK) care with a multi-disciplinary team approach of nationally and internationally recognized surgical, anesthesia, and perioperative medical providers ensuring our patients receive their care in the safest possible environment with superior outcomes. The facility includes an ambulatory surgery center with four operating rooms, a dedicated orthopedic clinic with 20 exam rooms, therapy services, x-ray imaging, and a cutting-edge research gait lab. An on-site education and research conference center further reflects IOI’s commitment to innovation and clinical excellence. 

For more information, please visit indianaortho.com or call (317) 620-0232. 

About Healthcare Outcomes Performance Company (HOPCo)  

Media Contact:
Annebeth Ahrenholz
Communications Specialist

Healthcare Outcomes Performance Company (HOPCo)
annebeth.ahrenholz@hopco.com

Blog

What Is Arthritis?

How Does Warm Weather Affect Arthritis?

How to Reduce Arthritis Pain and Stay Active in Summer

When to See a Doctor for Arthritis Pain

Conclusion

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