Image of Dr. Roxanne Keene, JRMC Orthopedic Surgeon
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Energy and experience.

Dr. Keene was one of the first female orthopedic surgeons in North Dakota — a testament to her drive and determination.

Her life revolves around family, athletics and adventure, bringing spirited energy to your movement goals.

Whether sidelined by an injury or slowed down by everyday aches and pains, Dr. Keene is ready to help you get back to your best. Her experience will guide you toward lasting relief and renewed strength, so you can return to the activities that matter most to you.

JOINED JRMC

2025

HOMETOWN

Ray, N.D.

BOARD CERTIFIED

AMERICAN BOARD OF ORTHOPAEDIC SURGERY
– Fellow, American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons –
– President, North Dakota Orthopaedic Society –
– Ruth Jackson Orthopedic Society –

RESIDENCY

Southern Illinois University School of Medicine
Springfield, Ill.

MEDICAL SCHOOL

University of North Dakota School of Medicine & Health Sciences
Grand Forks, N.D.

Q&A with Dr. Keene

Image of Dr. Roxanne Keene, JRMC Orthopedic Surgeon
What types of injuries do you see most often in recreational athletes?

I frequently see sprains, strains and overuse injuries in recreational athletes. Many are “weekend warriors” who may not have the endurance or training for certain activities. Common injuries include muscle strains, ankle sprains and rotator cuff issues, often caused by jumping into sports or activities like throwing without proper preparation.

Do you have any advice for athletes to avoid these types of injuries?

Maintaining physical fitness and strength is key. You don’t have to be a marathoner, but incorporating 30 minutes of exercise daily, including strength training, can make a big difference. Building a fitness base before starting new activities, like pickleball or other popular sports, can help prevent injuries and keep you active.

What advancements in orthopedic care are you most excited about right now?

There are a few exciting developments. First, biologics like PRP (platelet-rich plasma) and stem cells are showing promise in enhancing surgical outcomes. Second, multimodal pain management allows us to perform more procedures, like total joint replacements, on an outpatient basis. For example, when I started, total knee replacements required a five-to-seven-day hospital stay, but now most patients go home the same day and recover more quickly.

Who is the best candidate for an outpatient knee replacement?

Almost anyone can be a candidate if their health and home situation are suitable. Motivated patients with manageable medical conditions and a supportive home environment do very well. Having a coach or support person at home can make a big difference in recovery. If you’re interested in learning more about outpatient knee replacement, contact JRMC to see if it’s the right option for you. Make an appointment or call us at (701) 952-4878 to schedule a consultation.

Are there any common conditions or injuries that people often ignore, causing them to worsen?

Knee arthritis is a common condition I see that often progresses too far without treatment. Many people avoid seeking care, thinking surgery is the only option, but we have many nonoperative treatments like physical therapy, bracing, medications and injections. By addressing arthritis early, we can help patients maintain mobility, strength and quality of life without surgery.

How do you help patients overcome fears or hesitations about orthopedic procedures?

Education is key. I make sure my patients know what to expect before, during and after their procedure. For joint replacements, patients attend a joint class that covers every step of the process. Setting clear expectations helps reduce anxiety and leads to better outcomes. If you’re nervous about a procedure, JRMC’s team will walk you through every step to ensure you feel confident in your care.

What is one surprising thing most people don’t know orthopedic surgeons treat?

Bone health and osteoporosis are areas we often address. Many patients come in with fractures that are related to poor bone density. It’s important to assess and treat the underlying bone health issue, which is often overlooked but critical to prevent future fractures. Patients can consult JRMC for specialized care to help improve their bone health and reduce the risk of further injuries.

How can maintaining an active lifestyle help prevent the need for orthopedic surgery later in life?

Staying active helps in several ways. First, maintaining a healthy weight reduces stress on joints and ligaments. Second, regular activity preserves muscle mass, balance and proprioception, which lowers the risk of falls and injuries. Strong muscles also protect joints and help slow the progression of arthritis and other degenerative conditions.

JRMC ORTHOPEDIC & SPORTS MEDICINE SERVICES

As one of the first female orthopedic surgeons in North Dakota, Dr. Keene offers a broad range of general orthopedic services to JRMC. Known for her innovative approach, she embraces the latest advancements in technology to help patients recover faster and return to the activities they love.