MEET

DR JOSEPH KOU

Orthopedic Surgeon

Dr Joseph X Kou MD

LOCATIONS

  • Walnut Creek

  • Dublin

PHILOSOPHY OF CARE

“Your health and the quality of orthopedic care you receive are my top priorities. I strive to provide outstanding and timely orthopedic care while encouraging patients to take an active role in the process.

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About Dr Kou

Dr. Kou provides state-of-the-art orthopedic care in an efficient and compassionate fashion, and his patients enjoy his down to earth bedside manner. Dr. Kou educates his patients on how and why their problem developed and on what conservative and surgical treatment options are available to them.

Dr. Kou is among the best-trained orthopedic foot and ankle surgeons in the country and has been in the field for more than 10 years.

Orthopedic Surgery is an ever-changing field and the advances in foot and ankle care materials and technology have dramatically changed the way most Orthopedic Surgeons practice. Dr. Kou uses the latest in foot and ankle surgery technology and techniques, including performing both the Wright Medical Infinity Total Ankle Replacement and the Paragon28 Apex 3D Total Ankle procedure.

  • Board Certification

    • American Board of Orthopaedic Surgeons

  • Fellowship

    • Foot and Ankle Reconstruction

      Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY 2008

  • Residency

    • Orthopedic Surgery

      William Beaumont Hospital, Royal Oak, MI 2007

  • Medical School

    • Doctor of Medicine

      Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 2002

  • College

    • B.S. in Biochemistry

      University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 1998

Medical Interests

Areas of Interest:

  • Wright Medical Infinity Total Ankle Replacement
  • Paragon28 Apex3D Total Ankle

Reviews

About Dr Kou

Martina Kukuljevic
Mar 29, 2024
Google

Dr Kou and his team are just fantastic. Nursing staff is so warm , welcoming and caring . Doctor himself did an amazing job . Megan is sooo nice and kind. I felt always safe and taking care of me . Highly recommend. ! Front desk gals are just so friendly, paperwork gets done promptly and they are just great communicators. Exactly staff and I will stay there as a patient for sure .

Paula Fernandez
Mar 22, 2024
Google

Dr. Kou is a highly competent, caring physician who is easily approachable, and offers a high standard of care. I’m so happy that Dr. Kou was able to conduct my surgery and after care.

Donna McCarty
Mar 19, 2024
Google

Everyone at the office is great . Dr. Is amazing takes time and listens to you may surgery great ! Hopefully never need another surgery but if I did I would go right back to Dr. Kou

Rodney Wells
Mar 16, 2024
Google

Dr. Kou Requested another xray of foot which was the right choice because the first xray taken by primary doctors office was done incorrectly making it appear that my foot had a chipped bone when infact it did not. He took one look at new xray and determined that there was no broken bone only a bad sprang gave some a dvice how to care for it and no followup required.

Tina Runk
Mar 15, 2024
Google

Dr. Kou was so knowledgeable as it related to my ankle fracture as well nice and personable. He took care of my injury and was very easy to speak with.

Margaret Field
Mar 12, 2024
Google

Dr. Kou is an exceptional physician. He is known for being a perfectionist in the operating room. He has a wonderful bedside manner. He gets right to the point and will always tell you the truth, which means he won’t underestimate or overestimate the time it will take to recover. I had a complicated surgery, and he gave me time to think about it, and did not urge me to have it done until I was ready. He described the recovery as a commitment, and he knew I would have to make arrangements to be non-weight-bearing and non-driving. At the time I was ready he worked to get my authorization quickly and met with me to prepare me for the surgery. He also has a wonderful PA named Megan Smith who could not be nicer or more caring, and competent. She made the experience so much better than it could have been. She really made me feel as if she cared about every aspect of my recovery. The entire office is extremely friendly, they work to try and meet your needs with respect to scheduling and are pleasant at all times. I highly recommend Dr Kou and his office staff.

Matt Noriega-Saito
Mar 08, 2024
Google

Dr. Kou is amazing. I was diagnosed with a rare injury where I had major ligament damage in my ankle, and my bones basically separated. Pretty gross. Well, I had been passed around from two different surgeons and finally got to meet Dr. Kou. He was super nice and made me feel at ease, and understood the level of pain I was in. So, he went so far as to schedule me for surgery the next day. Surgery was done and I am on the mend. Had to re-learn how to walk but Dr. Kou was great in getting me all the PT I needed and answered my questions honestly and thoroughly. I'm super glad I was sent to his office!

Mary Miller
Feb 03, 2024
Google

Answered my questions.

Kimberley G.
Feb 01, 2024
Yelp

He has the best technique for delivering cortisone injections.  You can barely tell there is virtually no pain involved and the results are great as well.

Betsey McQuarrie
Dec 26, 2023
Google

I was able to get in to see Dr. Kou when my arthritic ankle flared up recently. He was as nice and professional as could be. He took x-rays, and he took care of it immediately. I was in and out of there, pain-free, in about 45 minutes. I would definately recommend him.

C Spence
Dec 15, 2023
Google

Great Experience! Professional, knowledgeable and to the point. The entire staff is efficient and work together with Dr. Kou to make a great, dedicated team!

Ann Schultzel
Nov 28, 2023
Google

Dr. Kou managed to accommodate me in spite of his booked schedule when I could not walk with a mid foot problem. I was scheduled to leave for a cruise planned a year ago. He was kind and patient, identified the problem and fixed it and I was able to make this trip fully recovered. I would highly recommend him .

Leif Haase
Nov 23, 2023
Google

Fast, on time, knowledgeable. A very good experience with a first-rate doctor.

Bob Krueger
Nov 22, 2023
Google

Dr. Kou (and his PA Megan Smith) is a first class people doctor and surgeon. After tearing my achilles over a weekend, I saw Dr. Kou 2 days later and he addressed all of my concerns and questions and understood what was important to me post surgery. He recommended surgery as my best outcome and performed successfuly surgery the following day. I had a follow-up most recently at 18 weeks post surgery and got clearance to resume my normal recreational activities (light hiking and golf) at modest levels while indicating that full recovery is realized around the 6 month mark. I have recently learned that Dr. Kou has performed surgery on a couple of people I know in the past year and they have the same great experience and positive surgical results.

Carlos Hernandez
Nov 17, 2023
Google

I saw Dr. Kou on February 6, 2023 and he immediately scheduled me for surgery the next morning. As an athlete it was very important for me to get the best care possible. He performed an amazing on my Achilles and got me back to playing in 9 months! I highly recommend him for anyone who is seeking care from an orthopedics physician.

Mike Milem
Oct 20, 2023
Google

Dr Kou has been a real pleasure he took care of my problems and so far everything is good I highly recommend him his staff is just as friendly and helpful as he is. He keeps me working and has done more for me than any other podiatrist has.Thank you Dr Kou

Brent Thomas
Oct 06, 2023
Google

I understand the need total ankle replacements are rather rare compared to other joints. That is why I’m so pleased that Dr Kuo was recommended to me. I got 2nd and 3rd opinions and Dr Kuo is truly on the cutting edge of technology. X-rays showed I had no cartilage remaining before my surgery now I can walk with endurance with pain.

Brian Adams
Sep 26, 2023
Google

Dr Kou was very knowledgeable and helped answer all my questions. I’d recommend him to anyone! Thanks!

Kathryn Cullen
Sep 23, 2023
Google

Dr. Kou is an excellent surgeon and he showed great interest in my wellbeing. I had smoked for over 50 years and did not want to quit, be he convinced me to actually quit. My ankle replacement is healed. Thank you, Doctor Kou.

San Yuan
Sep 15, 2023
Google

Dr. Kou is the top surgeon in his field. Truly a gifted surgeon. A doctor who has both empathy and compassion is a rare find.

Diana Leblanc
Sep 15, 2023
Google

Dr.Josphen kou takes the time to answer all questions you have and very understandable lot of his team I would recommend

Jim Pape
Sep 05, 2023
Google

Dr Kou is the without question the most skilled and knowledgeable orthopedist in NorCal, especially for all things foot and ankle. I did the research. He is the man. My journey included asking him to fix damage done by a less skilled professional, he embraced the challenge and a year later I am walking 18holes of golf like before this drama began. Trust this guy.

keh-minn chang
Sep 03, 2023
Google

I had a surgery on my right foot by Dr. Joseph Kou in May 2022. The surgery went smoothly, and I have recovered mostly in 4 months. I was able to walk and took a cruise trip in April 2023. I would like to express my sincerely appreciation to Dr. Kou.

Robert Carrillo
Sep 01, 2023
Google

I’ve seen Dr. Kou for foot surgery (arthrodesis) and he did it so well I was able to return to all of my sports even better than I was previously. I asked him to fuse the bone/toe at an upward angle so I could torque off of it, and he pulled it off! This is the best group of doctors you’re ever going to find, and I have 6 surgeries to prove it. Better every time!

Janice Stompro
Aug 31, 2023
Google

My consultation was amazing and I am looking forward to my surgery which will allow me to walk again without pain. I highly recommend this doctor

Dennis Schmal
Aug 30, 2023
Google

Dr Kou performed a total ankle replacement in August, 2021. He is a wonderful surgeon within great interpersonal skills.. Pre-surgery, he did a great job describing my medical options with the issue I had. The surgery and recovery went exactly as he had described. Today, I have an ankle with all the mobility, etc. as a human ankle with no pain, something that I could not conceive could happen thinking back 3 years ago. I recommend him highly.

Barbara Horciza
Aug 26, 2023
Google

Dr Kou is legit. My young athletic daughter and I have seen him 3x over the years for various foot, ankle and toe injuries. He understands the bones, healing process and provides realistic expectations. He is not quick to operate unless it's really necessary. He can repair past surgery mistakes. He's professional and thorough. I would highly recommend Dr Kou.

Steve Mapes
Aug 04, 2023
Google

Doctor Kou diagnosed that I had a broken tibia. He put a plate over the broken bone and screwed it in to the bone to stabilize it. It has been healing fine. I am now eight weeks in and I’m doing fine. It’s a slow process of recovery. I have the upmost confidence that Dr. Kou did a good job and I would recommend him to anybody.

Laurie P
Jul 27, 2023
Google

I went in for a rolled ankle taking forever to get better. Dr. Kou right away set me up for physical therapy so I won’t need surgery. Very friendly, professional and listened to me. I highly recommend Dr. Kou

Stuart Weinstein
Jul 19, 2023
Google

Dr Kou is, in my opinion based on the service I received and the outcome of the surgeries, a first class diagnostician and surgeon. He took me on time for every office visit (unlike most physicians) and finished the visit and any related exams in a very reasonable time. He answered all of my questions directly and gave me evidence and confidence that I could trust what he said. His PA is also very good in her role as an associate of Dr. Kou and an integral member of the treatment team.

Maureen Yandell
Jul 18, 2023
Google

Dr. Kou is always kind, courteous and patiently listens. I never feel rushed or that my questions have gone unanswered. I am happy to have found him and I trust I am in good hands.

Jerry H
Jul 15, 2023
Google

Excellent care. Everything you expect when you need help. Thank you for all your care and advise.

see chang
Jun 30, 2023
Google

Quick and determined to diagnose the situation and act accordingly

Ellie Kaplan
May 12, 2023
Google

Very competent doctor! On my way to recovery after an Achilles tendon surgery, came in on a Monday and he performed the surgery on Wednesday.

E. Fitzgerald
Apr 26, 2023
Google

Dr. Kou is amazing! If you have ankle issues like I did, he's the doctor you want to see.

Kevin Orozco
Apr 25, 2023
Google

Great Doctor and very informative and helpful with my injury. Would highly recommend to anyone who needs a good Orthopedic specialist.

Jennifer Moirao
Apr 12, 2023
Google

Dr. Kou is beyond helpful. He gets straight to business but truly cares for his patients. I would highly recommend him!

Conni Buchner
Apr 11, 2023
Google

Dr Kou did a fantastic job with my ankle /foot surgery. I would have complete confidence if I would need to have something else done with my other foot. He is very personable. I really liked him.

Heidi Schindler
Mar 10, 2023
Google

Dr Kou is patient, easy to communicate with, explains surgical procedures thoroughly and twice has offered me alternatives to the surgical procedures I thought I needed! Office is great. Never waited long to be seen.

Kristi Motley
Mar 10, 2023
Google

Dr. Kou is amazing!!! He treated my 12-year-old soccer player, and was so informative and supportive for her treatment to heal from a really bad ankle sprain. He was also so thorough in explaining what we needed to do, and is definitely appreciated by our family.

walt blum
Feb 27, 2023
Google

Dr. Kou is great to work with. He reviewed my situation regarding my feet and recommended surgery on my left foot. All went well with the surgery and recovery went smoothly. A year later I had him look at my other foot and he recommended not to do the surgery since I didn't have any pain, just not a good looking foot. I commend Dr. Kou for not conducting the surgery since he felt unless there was discomfort or pain he would not do the surgery for cosmetic reasons. In the future if I had pain he wanted me to come back for another evaluation.

Jen B
Feb 08, 2023
Google

For me, Dr Kou did a big toe bone fusion, straightened my toe and removed several bone spurs. It was an intricate surgery to say the least. Dr Kou is extremely kind, thorough, responsive, wonderful bedside manner, easy to communicate with, knowledgeable and an amazing surgeon. I can’t recommend him enough and if Dr Kou is your doctor, you are in GREAT hands!!

Katherine Tonkyro
Feb 02, 2023
Google

Dr Kou has been my orthopedic surgeon seeing me through the corrective surgery to repair another surgeon’s failed ankle fusion surgery and has since then performed another surgery on the other ankle. Both surgeries were completely successful. Since then he has been very kind and helpful with the follow-ups. After the bad experience I had with a different surgeon I am very hapy and relieved to have found him, and I intend to use him again if needed. Both Dr Kou and his assistant have been wonderful. I trust then both and recommend then for ankle surgery.

Nancy Ramirez
Jan 27, 2023
Google

I met Dr.Kou and he was very polite and understood my concerns about my left foot and I appreciate him very much. I will definitely recommend him to family and friends.

BAARC RESCUE
Dec 24, 2022
Google

I am now seeing doctor Kou and I like him very much he takes out a lot of time to explain What he sees.

tom pinckard
Dec 14, 2022
Google

As a retired physician I was very pleased to meet a young physician with medical care values with which I could agree

Kimberley Goodwin
Dec 13, 2022
Google

Dr. Kou is an excellent physician. He treats me for ankle pain. I’m usually a bit anxious when I have to get any type procedure involving a needle, but I’ve never experienced so little pain. It’s almost pain free. He’s always been extremely patient and gentle. I so appreciate the treatments I receive from Dr. Kou. The treatments alleviate a great deal of pain from my ankles and therefore make my life just a little bit easier.

Dave Grilli
Dec 07, 2022
Google

Great Surgeon - Great Staff -

Karla Kelly
May 06, 2022
Google

I interviewed three surgeons before deciding on Dr. Kuo and it was the best decision I could have made. First, Dr. Kuo is kind. He is patient and clearly wants his clients to be fully informed and on top of all that, he was always on time, as was his PA, Megan. Dr. Kuo made me feel like his top priority and made sure all my questions were answered by the end of each appointment. My surgery was such a success and I highly recommend Dr. Kuo for any surgery involving your feet.

Lisa L.
Mar 09, 2022
Yelp

I am remiss in not having shared my positive experiences with Dr. Kou and Megan, his PA. I had surgery on both my feet to correct pronated feet. The first procedure occurred in early 2017, followed by a surgery for removing the pins. The second surgery, on my other foot, happened last March and it was, again, followed by pin removal. During all four procedures, Dr. Kou and Megan were extremely professional. I was particularly impressed with Megan's kind and caring support. I also appreciated the fact that Dr. Kou was very clear in setting expectations. This type of foot surgery involves a very long recovery and it was not easy, but I am so pleased that both my feet are now upright and I am able to walk without the pain I was previously experiencing. I highly recommend Dr. Kou and Megan. They make an awesome team!!

sgcole111
Jan 04, 2022
Google

Dr. Kou is skilled, confident, and caring. Please see him before you let a DPM with a scalpel near your foot.

Diana Hoffman
Nov 15, 2021
Google

Dr. Kou has helped me so much. My ankle was messed up and wasn’t repaired properly until I found Dr. Kou. It is critical that you take the time after an injury to find the right specialist to work on your specific injury, in my case my ankle. Don’t go see the first orthopedic physician you can get in with. I think I could have avoided some surgery if I had been with the right physician in the first place. Dr. Kou is the best when it comes to ankles.

Joan Wetherell
Sep 29, 2021
Google

Dr Kou operated on my right foot 8 years ago this month. He performed 5 different processes. I had been almost unable to walk. It took 6 months to a year to heal fully as he said it would but one year later I was traipsing around Amsterdam, up and down stairs, etc. with no problem. I am still fine and am grateful to have found him. He was very sympathetic, very patient and very competent.

Howard S.
Jul 01, 2021
Yelp

I saw Dr. Kou recently for an ankle issue.  I found him to be very knowledgeable, approachable and patient. I highly recommend him.

Stephanie G.
Feb 11, 2021
Yelp

I had an Achilles repair surgery with Dr. Kou and his PA Megan Smith. Though it was an unfortunate situation I had a wonderful experience. My appointments were always on time and I never felt rushed.  Dr. Kou and Megan were both kind, thoughtful, knowledgeable, thorough, and happy to answer my many questions.  They made me feel cared for during a very stressful time.  Not only that, my surgery went well, I did not have any complications and I felt like I was in good hands.

Will O.
Jan 18, 2021
Yelp

I've had bunion pain for over two years after a basketball accident and I was convinced by three other doctors I need to have surgery. I saw Dr. Koo today and all the pain is gone. It also turns out I may not need surgery after all. Thank you for the attention to detail and giving me instance relief. Words can't express how thankful I am for not having this pain anymore but also the cost of surgery and more importantly, being able to walk and run without any pain. There's a few distinguished doctors out there that are not after money and I'm lucky to have come in contact Dr. Kou. Thanks again.

Margot Beattie
Mar 08, 2020
Google

If you are in need of surgery, you will be in excellent hands with Dr Kou. His skill, expertise and experience are exactly what you need should you have an accident in life. I am a senior who had a complex break of my ankle in a fall, and my smooth and successful recovery is a result of my choosing Dr. Kou as my surgeon. He has a superb team of Megan, Gene, Patrick snd Isabelle that follow you through recovery - caring, realistic and highly skilled. Thank you Dr. Kou.

Aneela A.
Feb 20, 2020
Yelp

I had foot surgery recently. I was impressed by the staffs response to all my needs . PA Megan Smith made my recovery easy . She promptly called me back when I was in pain .She is very empathic, knowledgeable and pleasant. She listened to my questions and answered without rushing me . She was very sincere and respectful in all interactions . Isabel is Dr Kou ' s nurse and was also very kind ,helpful and knowledgeable. Thank you so much. Aneela

Sheila M.
Feb 08, 2020
Yelp

I had Dr. Kou and his wonderful Physicians Assistant Megan for my extensive foot surgery in January of last year. It has been a long time recovering, just as they said it would be...I can't say enough good things about this Doctor, about Megan and the entire staff...they are always available to answer questions you may have both pre and post surgery, and are always encouraging you to do the best you can do in your recovery, but to not over do it either....Dr. Kou was recommended to me from another respected Orthopedic Surgeon who said that Dr. Kou was the very best in this field, and after having this surgery I can absolutely state I would not have wanted anyone else to do this for me....Megan is always very friendly, very willing to answer all your questions and offer advice to lead you in your recovery process.... you will not be sorry if you choose to go with this medical team, they are professionals all the way....I also have had two cortisone shots in my foot as I continue to heal, and Megan is great at giving the shots, no pain whatsoever!!!!..I highly recommend this medical team....

Ken Fujii
Jan 31, 2020
Google

Short version: Would highly recommend. Tore my achilles. Had surgery. Am extremely pleased with the results and the overall care I received from Dr. Kou and staff. Long Version: I saw Dr. Kou and his PA Megan Smith in December 2019 for a fully ruptured achilles tendon. FWIW, I am a licensed physical therapist and was referred to Dr. Kou by an old classmate who had his achilles repaired by him a few years earlier, and had excellent results. During my eval, Dr. Kou was professional, personable, and concise. We were both on the same page pretty much from the beginning regarding diagnosis, assessment and treatment options. In the end I was scheduled for surgery to re-attach the tendon 4 days later, but throughout the eval process Dr. Kou (and really the MOS staff as a whole) was considerate and sympathetic to my personal concerns and circumstances in his approach toward assessment, recommendations, and eventually surgery. As of this review, I am exactly 7 weeks post-op and physically I couldn't be happier with my recovery thus far. Dr. Kou and his team performed the surgery without complications. Post-op swelling has been minimal, and pain has been almost non-existent (FWIW, I have been very diligent in following post-op restrictions and instructions). My weight-bearing tolerance and range of motion have progressed nicely week-to-week and on the faster side of expected timelines; and at this point the surgical scar is very thin and only slightly noticeable. Dr. Kou checked in with me again at 4 weeks post-op to inspect the repair and see how things were going, but for the most part his assistant, Megan, has performed all of my post-op follow-ups. She's done an exceptional job ensuring that the repair and ROM have been healing well, as well as to instruct and educate me on what to expect with each new phase of post-op recovery. Not only that, but even though I am very familiar with the recovery process for an achilles repair due to my profession, at the end of the day I am still a patient– and Megan was able to answer and clarify all of my random questions and concerns, which has really helped put me more at ease during recovery. At this point, the extent of my recovery going forward will be more dependent on my progress through physical therapy, but I am extremely pleased with the outcome of my surgery and my overall experience with Dr. Kou, and would highly recommend him– especially to anyone with a tear or suspected tear of their achilles tendon.

Stephanie K.
Aug 14, 2019
Yelp

Six weeks ago I made a big mistake. I thought that it would be wise to jump over a gas hose while it was pumping gas into my car. Let's just say I didn't clear the hose and came down on my ankle. My foot actually looked like it wasn't attached to my leg. I broke three bones (tibia and fibula) are the two names I remember. I also tore some cartilage. My first surgeon called me at home and said he couldn't fix my ankle. He said that he recommended an ankle specialist named Dr Kou. Dr Kou and his staff were amazing. I was nervous and in more pain than I have ever been in. 2 1/2 hours later, 14 screws and two plates...and I would soon be back to my new normal. Dr Kou is an excellent surgeon, a kind human being and somewhat of a magician.  I highly recommend him!!!

Dins G.
Jul 11, 2018
Yelp

Dr Kou recently did my foot surgery after I broke it badly in a recent car accident. I was quite nervous since I had never been through surgery before but he even came in over the weekend in his personal time to consult with me about the options and put me at ease about the whole procedure. Not too many doctors would do that! He was very personable and knowledgeable and I liked the fact that he was confident in his recommendations. Thankfully the surgery went smooth and I'm still going through the rehab process. Hopefully the healing will continue per plan and I will be able to walk again normally soon! Thank you again doc!

Monica Z.
Apr 12, 2018
Yelp

Dr. Kou treated my broken ankle that after 5 years was still causing me a great deal of discomfort!  I should mention Dr. Kou did not perform the original  surgery.  He gave me a cortisone shot and the pain is just a bad memory.  We discussed ankle replacement surgery as an option.  Grateful the cortisone works right now!  Thank you Dr. Kou!

Sandra N.
Mar 03, 2018
Yelp

Dr. Kou is an outstanding foot surgeon. He's easy to talk to and is caring and conscientious. He's operated on both my feet which were injured in an accident and has got me back to leading a normal life!

Will R.
Aug 15, 2017
Yelp

Thank you to Dr. Kou and his staff for giving me back the mobility of being able to walk again with the new STAR Ankle replacement. I have one tenth the pain in my ankle since having the ankle replacement in June 2017. My ankle had deteriorated to bone on bone after injuring it 30 years ago from a 30 foot fall onto cement and 3 surgeries initially to repair it back then. I am very thankful for the job done by Dr. Kou and thankful for the staff in helping getting it done. I appreciated the professionalism and expertise displayed by Dr. Kou and his PA Megan Smith. When first meeting Dr. Kou for consultation, my wife and I were impressed by his professionalism and expertise to my issues. As an orthopedic surgeon, we were pleasantly surprised by his approach in providing us with a diagnosis and that I would benefit from either a total ankle replacement or fusion and that we would discuss pros/cons of each, but in the end, he was going to allow for what I felt was most appropriate for my situation. I never felt pressured or directed to either option. Follow up appointments for pre-op and post-op have been just as informative, allowing for question/answers without feeling pressured for time and that he or staff are in a hurry to move on to next patient or bail out of room, either in hospital or office. My wife and I commuted almost 2 hours for his initial consult due to limited options in our small community and we would recommend Dr. Kou to anyone who is in similar situation with foot/ankle injury/pain. We are forever grateful for your skills and look forward to many adventures with the STAR ankle replacement. Thank you so much, Will R.

Rene' M.
Aug 31, 2016
Yelp

I had glass on the bottom of my foot for a month, I went to Urgent Care twice and Emergency Room, no one could take the glass out. I called 5 different doctors to see if someone would take the glass out and no one would return my call. Dr. Kou was recommended to me by someone at work, he looked at at my foot took and x-ray and on Monday and on Wednesday he did the surgery. I can't thank him enough!

E A.
May 30, 2016
Yelp

I had a ankle injury, since I did not have a surgery, I mostly saw Megan Smith, the physician assistance. She is fantastic. Megan is knowledgable, competent, and caring. I totally trust her medical judgment.

Jodyci M.
Mar 24, 2016
Yelp

I have been going to Dr.Kou for years now. He is the best doctor that I've ever had. He knows what he is doing and he is great at what he does. he has done three ankle surgeries on my ankle and the last ankle surgery was three years ago and my insurance didn't want to ay for it and Dr. Kou did everything that he could have done so that my insurance would cover it, He talked to the insurance everyday for about a week and a half and he had to keep summiting paperwork to the insurance. It was a long process with them but Dr. Kou never gave up and he was there for me and my family. Even though I don't have the same insurance anymore I still keep him posted on my recovery.

Kat J.
Feb 23, 2016
Yelp

This is long overdue.  I tore my Achilles Tendon 3 years ago, and Dr. Kou performed the surgery to repair it.  He did an excellent job, till this day I have 0 issues and 0 pain.  It's only when people ask me about my scar or recall me being in a boot that they remind me that I actually tore it.  He was exceptional, professional, caring and took the time to explain and answer all of my concerns before and after surgery.  He looks young and sometimes (I) was quick to judge in that he may not have much experience but I was WRONG! Don't judge a book by its cover!!!  He is excellent, if I had to recommend someone I would say, please go see Dr. Kou before you commit elsewhere!

Doris S.
Nov 20, 2015
Yelp

Dr. Kou did my total ankle replacement surgery using the STAR ankle replacement in November, 2012 due to traumatic arthritis. My only regret is that I didn't do it sooner. I fell so lucky to have found Dr. Kou as there aren't that many Doctors doing this surgery. The recovery was very easy with minimal pain. Dr. Kou has a great bedside manner, listened to my concerns and gave me all the information I needed to make an informed decision about having this surgery verses Ankle fusion. It's the best decision I've ever made, no more pain, and I can walk again. If you're considering this surgery, I can't recommend Dr. Kou enough. Thanks again Dr. Kou!!

Charlene W.
Jul 02, 2015
Yelp

Dr. Kou was fantastic from the second he talked with my daughter about her ankle surgery. He had a great bedside manner, was unhurried, explained everything carefully, reassured us and gave us time to ask questions. She went into surgery with peace of mind (me too!). Once surgery was over he was in the waiting room with us so we didn't have to wait to hear. Great job. We highly recommend him. Everyone at the Muir Woods surgery center was fantastic!

B B.
Jun 26, 2015
Yelp

I met  Dr. Kou a few years back now. I had a previous surgery on my right foot which was around 9 years before at the time (by a different doctor). I started experiencing pain in my ankle and foot again and I could not walk for more than 20 min without my knee, hip and back killing me. It became so bad I sought help from many doctors. I eventually saw Dr. Bell in Pleasanton who referred me to Dr. Kou at John Muir Orthopedic. Dr. Kou had reviewed my X-rays, MRI and CT and we discussed what was actually wrong with my foot. Unfortunately, I had a Tarsal Coalition but it was fixable. Dr. Kou was very reassuring and confident about the correction. I went on to have the surgery which did have a long recovery. About 6 or 7 months after the surgery I was fully fused and was able to have the hardware removed. I am not able to supinate or pronate as well, but I am free of pain and able to walk. Also, I can now run! Prior to my surgery I had not run in over 7 years. I now am able to work out and comfortably run and enjoy participating in 5k, 10ks and working my way towards a marathon. After my  surgery and during the recovery process I saw Dr. Kou several times for my checkups. He is very precise, thorough and honest. I did my physical therapy at the same office which was convenient and helpful. I highly recommend Dr. Kou for orthopedic care. I'm beyond happy with the outcome of my foot surgery as well as lucky. I am almost 3 years out from my surgery and have had no problems. I'm forever thankful to Dr. Kou for giving me the ability to comfortably walk and run again.

Joan W.
Dec 13, 2014
Yelp

In October 2013 Dr. Kou did surgery on my right foot. 6 separate procedures. At the time, I could barely walk as a result of that combination of conditions.  I had been through the cortisone shot routine.   By the end of six months I was walking normally, comfortably. In October of this year I took a trip to Europe.  I spent 4 days in Belgium, and 10 in Amsterdam.  I walked EVERYWHERE because that is what you do in Europe, especially the cities.  Even with the trams, trains and buses, you are constantly climbing up and down, carrying bags, going up and down stairways in the stations, etc.  I walked over cobblestone streets, trudged through museum after museum and even managed to wear some comfortable low heel dress shoes the night we went to a concert at the Concertgebouw.   Thank you, Dr. Kou, for giving me the ability and the freedom to roam around like that.  Oh, and did I mention our rooms in two of the three places we stayed were on the fourth floor, with no elevator?

Sandra N.
Sep 17, 2014
Yelp

Dr. Kou is an amazing foot surgeon!   I did a lot of research before choosing him and I am so grateful to have Dr. Kou as my surgeon.  He is kind and personable, and gave we realistic explanations and expectations.  I had a total of three surgeries on my feet to resolve injuries I sustained  having had my feet crushed from an accident several years previously.  He also removed a very painful neuroma.The pain I lived with was huge.  Now my feet are pain free. I can walk without any discomfort.  Dr. Kou has given me my life back.  I highly recommend him, he is the best of the best!

Mark D.
May 17, 2014
Yelp

I ruptured my Achilles tendon in January and I waited until now (nearly fully recovered) to write this review. I had a wonderful experience with Dr. Kou and Muir Orthopedic. I was able to get an appointment with Dr. Kou within two days of calling, and I was in surgery within two days of my first appointment. He did offer a non-surgical method of recovery but I opted for the knife. The surgery appeared to have gone perfectly, and the surgical center followed up with me several times post-op to check on how things were going. On top of being a nice guy, Dr. Kou is very upfront and communicative. He made it clear that he subscribes to the more aggressive school of thought when it comes to Achilles rupture post-op recovery. I was in a cast for about 10 days and then in a walking boot, which I could bear as much weight on as I felt comfortable. I'm very glad he takes this approach, it made my recovery a breeze, and I'm guessing that I'm better for it (given research I've done on more conservative approaches). I'm happy to say I'll be playing basketball again this summer and it is largely thanks to Dr. Kou and the rest of the staff at Muir Orthopedic and Sequoia Surgical.

Nan K.
Apr 04, 2014
Yelp

Dr Kou, Confidence. No problem kind of guy! Pleasant.(loosen up in the humor dept.;)) But easy to laugh Skill. The BEST! I had STAR Total Ankle Replacement Feb. 2014 Not one moment of pain(in cast 34days) Great hospital stay(JM/WC). Now in 'boot' for 30 days. Then xrays, etc. Anyway Kou is a cool guy. He is THE man for your feet!! I hope he has a dog! (rescue one if not). Nan Kreeger

Jennifer K.
Jan 22, 2014
Yelp

Dr. Kou was extremely professional and pleasant.  He did a major bunion reconstruction on my adult daughter and made sure that we were comfortable with the surgery plan and follow up, and answered all of our questions.  When she had difficulty with the pain medication he took my call and had the new prescription ready and waiting for me in the office.  He was comforting and funny at the same time.  We would highly recommend Dr. Kou to anyone needing foot surgery in the Walnut Creek area.

Elliott F.
Sep 04, 2013
Yelp

I had an awesome experience under Dr. Kou's care.  I was previously in a car accident and had to have multiple surgeries.  When I had gone to another doctor about doing something about the nerve-damage, hammer-toes and bone spur in my foot, the doctor basically said "Well, that sucks, not much we can do." Dr. Kou on the other hand was quick to identify what needed to be done, and I was able to get surgery scheduled within the next month.  It has barely been 2 weeks, and I am already back to work. Dr. Kou is the man.

Norman G.
Nov 02, 2011
Yelp

I was previously diagnosed with a ruptured anterior tibialis tendon on my right foot. I had an MRI ordered by the orthopedist referred to me by my primary care physician. I decided to get a second opinion from my wife's podiatrist. I decided I needed a third opinion and was referred to Dr, Kou by my son's significant other (she had not ever seen him but was referred to him by her primary care Dr.). After his initial exam, I had total faith in him because of his demeanor, high confidence level he radiated, plus his experience in doing this surgery that the previous 2 medical professionals lacked. His knowledge and skill came out when the surgery went exactly as planned, the healing/recuperation/rehabilitation went exactly as he said it would, plus his willingness and ability to answer all my concerns and keep me informed of my progress during the entire process. He is in my opinion, extremely knowledgable re. this type of injury and should definitely be considered for doing foot or ankle surgery or for a second opinion.

Assisting the Doctor:

Smith, Megan, PA-C
PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT

Physician Assistants are highly skilled medical professionals. Dr. Kou is joined by Megan Smith, PA-C to provide the highest standard of care.

Reviews Mean So Much!

Reviews mean so much to both the doctor providing care as well as to prospective patients. We appreciate your reviews!

Dr. Kou has helped me so much. My ankle was messed up and wasn’t repaired properly until I found Dr. Kou. It is critical that you take the time after an injury to find the right specialist to work on your specific injury. Dr. Kou is the best when it comes to ankles.
- Diana H

Dr Kou operated on my right foot 8 years ago this month. I am still fine and am grateful to have found him. He was very sympathetic, very patient and very competent.
- Joan W

I saw Dr. Kou recently for an ankle issue.  I found him to be very knowledgeable, approachable and patient. I highly recommend him.
- Howard S