MEET

DR CHRISTIAN HEYWOOD

Orthopedic Surgeon

PHILOSOPHY OF CARE

“My philosophy is to get my patients functioning and participating in the activities they love. I enjoy working in partnerships with my patients towards reaching their goals.”

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About Dr Heywood

As an orthopedic surgeon, I am able to blend my interests in medicine, physics, and engineering with my passion for helping people. I am particularly interested in the treatment and prevention of sports medicine injuries, and I enjoy working in partnership with my patients to help them recover and reach their goals. I believe in a whole-body approach to treatment and am dedicated to helping my patients not only achieve a full recovery but also improve their overall body function and performance. Through my specialty training in sports medicine and arthroscopy, I provide patients with experienced, individualized non-surgical, and surgical orthopedic care. Additionally, I specialize in total joint replacement of the shoulder, hip, and knee, as well as the care and management of fractures.

When I’m not treating patients, I enjoy participating in medical missionary work, writing and performing music, and surfing.

  • 2003 George Washington University School of Medicine
  • The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences
  • Sports Medicine and Arthroscopy, Kerlan – Jobe Orthopedic Clinic
  • American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
  • American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine
  • Arthroscopy Association of North America
  • California Orthopaedic Association
Gloria Peña
Nov 13, 2024
Google

I did not wait long. The doctor answered all my questions.

Daniel Fuller
Nov 09, 2024
Google

My experience as a patient of Dr. Christian S. Heywood was very positive. He is a experienced and knowledgeable orthopedic surgeon. He has a sincere caring demeanor for his patients well-being. I recommend Dr Heywood for anyone who needs Orthopedic care.

Peggy Ozuna
Nov 01, 2024
Google

I chose Dr Heywood as my physician because I worked with him in the operating room as a surgical tech. I can vouch for his skill set first hand. He is pleasant to work with and cool under pressure. You might also see him around town playing in his band. Just an all around good guy!

Glenn Smith
Oct 29, 2024
Google

Good communicator. Straight forward which I appreciate.

James Mazerik
Oct 01, 2024
Google

I had a great experience with Golden State orthopedic and Dr. Christian Heywood No long wait to get seen. Dr. Heywood was able to analyze my knee and hip problem discuss options and take a direction which currently has me pain-free in both the knee and hip area. Highly recommend his services.

Janice Seals
Sep 26, 2024
Google

I basically use Golden State as my main doctors as I am pleased with every one. Dr Haywood took time to explain my shoulder problems and possibilities. I appreciate him, Dr Abidi, Dr Hendow and and many others who keep me moving and as pain free as possible.

R
Aug 22, 2024
Google

Dr. Heywood was great. Excellent communicator, enthusiastic and professional. He reassured me that my condition was treatable and I was confident of his ability. I felt very comfortable talking to him . The whole staff at Golden State has been great. Nice change from pamf.

Debra “Debbie” De Los Santos
Aug 22, 2024
Google

My experience with Dr. Heywood is exemplary he treats me well and if anyone needs a recommendation for problems with your knees I will recommend him for your knees. He did a wonderful job on my knee replacement.

Viveca Bonifacio
Aug 13, 2024
Google

Dr Heywood is a caring person and listen to your problems.

Annelies walbridge
Aug 08, 2024
Google

Dr Heywood has taken amazing care of my family over the years. He is friendly, personable, kind, patient and has healed our many injuries. He is my “go-to” orthopedic surgeon! I also loved seeing him on the sidelines at the Soquel High School football games!!

Eric Sturm
Aug 08, 2024
Google

I would recommend Dr Heywood to my family or friends. He’s knowledgeable, experienced, thoughtful, kind, and is top notch at his job.

Patrick Neuman
Aug 02, 2024
Google

Great Doctor and staff. Very competent and knowledgeable. The offices are well run and a great staff.

Carly Newbold
Jul 30, 2024
Google

Dr. Heywood is a phenomenal physician. He takes time with his clients ensuring longevity and not symptomatic relief. I would highly recommend him to anyone that has orthopedic issues in this area.

Toni Quick
Jul 30, 2024
Google

Dr Heywood is a wonderful doctor in that I have complete faith in his medical decisions, and he's very caring. He did my meniscus surgery and got me walking again, I recommend him highly and know that if I ever need him he always responds quickly. A great surgeon!!!

Patsy McPartland
Jul 18, 2024
Google

Dr. HEYWOOD was very thorough in evaluating my shoulder pain. He took lots of time to listen to me and he is very personable.

Rick Von Flue
Jul 02, 2024
Google

Dr. Heywood is friendly, clear when explaining things and overall very professional.

Rhonda Peters
Jun 28, 2024
Google

My experience with Dr Heywood was exceptional! I went to him with a lingering shoulder pain. He carefully explored the possibilities of what the issue was with further testing. Once he made a diagnosis, he explained all of my options and answered my questions. Together we made a plan of action. He and his staff were very friendly and professional. I highly recommend Dr Heywood for your orthopedic needs. Rhonda

Solo
Jun 25, 2024
Google

The physicians at Golden State ortho are the best around. Dr Haywood replaced my ACL 20 years ago and it’s been perfect ever since. He just did my other knee today and I expect a full recovery thanks to Dr. Haywood. My most trusted physician.

Haruyo Pearson
Jun 14, 2024
Google

From check in to seeing the doctor, it was a short wait. Dr. Heywood was very personable, while listening to what I had to say about my injury, his attention was focused on me. He explained in a way I can understand why this prolonged problem is still occurring. His treatment plan seems reasonable and well thought out.

Araceli Cornejo
Jun 07, 2024
Google

Doctor is dedicated to his patients.

Mark Martinez
May 10, 2024
Google

Very professional

Eddie Wade
May 09, 2024
Google

I'm 65 and Dr. Heywood has been extremely helpful, wonderful in helping me achieve my goals of performing 50 service to humanity.

Amy Barton
May 02, 2024
Google

Dr. Heywood is professional, personable and great at his skill. He also has a great way of talking to a patient in a way that makes it easy to understand what is happening at each step of any process with him. Highly recommend him.

Carla Hill
May 02, 2024
Google

Our family has seen Dr. Heywood for a number of sports injuries, usually trying to squeeze in without much notice, and have liked the punctuality with which we have been seen. Dr. Heywood is polite, gentle, and willing to explain things. My children, ages 7-11, like him and aren’t afraid to go there, even when in pain or facing possibly disappointing news (like needing a cast or having to sit out the remainder of the season). I also appreciate such cost-effective care, even locally. I’ve never felt ripped off.

Chango Underhill
Apr 24, 2024
Google

Dr. Heywood is a wonderful and listens to his patients concerns and needs. He has a great reputation around town too. He has replaced both of my hips and is currently helping me with my shoulders. He also has worked on some of my friends as well and everyone is overly happy with the results. Even the nurses at Dominican Hospital have great things to say about him. He is an assist to our community and we are grateful to have him! I highly recommended him and give thanks. Rosalynd

Holly Wiley
Apr 13, 2024
Google

Great doctor. The knee replacement I had went very well. Dr. Heywood explained everything clearly before surgery and the follow up care was excellent.

Christine-Sara Berge
Apr 10, 2024
Google

Dr. Haywood first did surgery on my then teenage son. He was very patient with him and with me answering many questions. Since that surgery, he has done a shoulder replacement for myself and about to do a second one on my other shoulder. Again, I find him to Be patient, listens to me and my concerns, and answers all my questions thoroughly. I would highly recommend Dr. Haywood for orthopedic surgery.

Bob Packer
Mar 28, 2024
Google

Communicates well, efficient, good recall of previous visits. Most importantly, leads me to consider the most appropriate treatments specificly for me and my goals. Never tells me to give things up, rather helps me find ways to keep going.

david turner
Mar 20, 2024
Google

Dr Christian Heywood has mastered procedures including all the orthopedic surgery skills training other surgeons far beyond their experience. What's more, patience consistently compliment Dr Christian Haywood's ability to explain diagnosis and treatments in an understanding, reassuring matter. They truly excel at balancing clinical rigor with empathy and bedside manner after surgery. Beyond expertise in orthopedic surgery knees and shoulders Dr Kristin Haywood demonstrates strong collaboration skills that would enable them to thrive on the interdisciplinary surgical training skills. On multiplications they took the initiative to consult with the other surgeons to provide a well-rounded care and surgically tailored to each patient needs. In summary I recommend Dr Christian Haywood for surgical and consultation. I am confident they would have the diligence asset and work ethic to Excel and significantly contribute during the patient client relation and beyond. How to personal level Dr Christian Haywood has shown integrity maturity and a genuine compassion for patients that couple with their intellect make them ideal candidate for surgical and other programs of golden State orthopedics.

Dale Wolschlager
Mar 14, 2024
Google

Dr Christian Heywood has worked with me since June. 2023 for my worn-out and arthritic knees. His advice and treatment has benefitted me tremendously! I'm now back out snow skiing!! I recommend him for all Orthopedic care and treatments!!

Victoria Silva
Mar 13, 2024
Google

Dr. Haywood is always available to talk if I have questions. He answers them honestly and I appreciate that.

Claudia Nolasco
Mar 08, 2024
Google

Dr. Heywood is a total professional giving fast attentive care. Very happy with him & his excellent team ❤️‍🩹

thomas nesbitt
Mar 07, 2024
Google

Doctor Heywood and staff are incredible had knee replacement now shoulder problems they are kind great people 6 months after knee replacement walking 6 miles a day no problem greatest people ever

Fernando Almaraz
Mar 01, 2024
Google

Excellent doctor and good service

Richard Ethrington
Feb 29, 2024
Google

Doctor Hayward was great. He explained everything about my knee and then did exactly what he said. It was a meniscus tear and he. Checked to make sure everything else was great. I was very pleased and will refer people to him. Thank you.

Lono Barnes
Feb 27, 2024
Google

My experience with Dr. Christian Heywood, at Golden State Orthopedics , has been nothing short of amazing and professional. Dr Heywood took over my care after equally gifted Dr Reynolds retired. I consider myself to be lucky to be under the care of Dr.Heywood and his team at Golden State. He is truly professional, capable, patient oriented and dedicated to his patients. I have been seeing him for some shoulder issues, for a few years, and I also found myself needing his service and surgery for a fractured wrist. Post surgery my wrist feels excellent , no long term pain or dysfunction. I would strongly recommend Dr. Heywood for anyone with orthopedic injury needs or care. Dr. Heywood listens and doesn’t push surgery and is very honest sharing the risk versus gain of surgical intervention and helps you in the decision making process. Thank you for your service Dr. Heywood.

Rich Taylor
Feb 21, 2024
Google

Dr Heywood has repaired my wrist (good as new) and helped me determine the best treatment when I separated my shoulder. He is knowledgeable and understanding. I highly recommend.

Crystan Leas
Feb 08, 2024
Google

Amazing Doctor. Has treated several injuries now and has wonderful bedside manner, is professional, knowledgeable and he been able to diagnose and treat each injury right away and so far without any surgery. Couldn’t be more pleased!

Ron Leimbach
Feb 06, 2024
Google

Everyone was great. My hip is like new.

Teena Townsend
Jan 30, 2024
Google

Dr. Haywood is very competent, kind, and helpful

Craig Johnson
Jan 18, 2024
Google

Dr. Haywood is very professional and courteous. I appreciate the way he explains things. He is a very good doctor.

Tom B
Dec 05, 2023
Google

Very professional and friendly.

Chris Lane
Nov 23, 2023
Google

Very personable and decisive. Office personnel very friendly.

Mole
Nov 17, 2023
Google

We have had to see Dr Heywood a couple of times for both my sons. They are both very athletic and into sports therefore they tend to also have injuries. They and myself have always had positive experiences with Dr Heywood including three surgical procedures.

Carey Pico
Nov 12, 2023
Google

Good communication, takes sufficient time, prepares (sees MRI, x-rays, etc.) before entering patient room. He cleaned my torn knee meniscus, where could run normal again. Communicated on what is known/not known about the surgery (does it lead to osteoarthritis? What do the studies say...). I even came to him for advice on my other knee that suffered a slight ACL tear (should I run again? what care to I need) when I needed a second opinion. Full confidence in this doctor!

Jeff Swedlund
Oct 27, 2023
Google

Always a great experience! Thank you for taking care of me!

Edie Weiss
Oct 11, 2023
Google

Dr. Heywood is so booked, but in our visits he is ALL there, answers all my questions in detail, & does not rush me. He is knows his field inside out & has many years of surgical experience. He takes a conservative approach instead of rushing into invasive procedures, if there is another possible path. I recently wanted to think about the cortisone injection he suggested as opposed to the torn meniscus repair that he did not think was a good idea for my situation. Huge mistake! Five days later, my achy knee turned into an unbearably painful knee. I could barely walk or sleep. There were no appointments for 16 days. He squeezed me in, in two days. He's a doctor with a heart.

Gary Smith
Oct 09, 2023
Google

Pleasant & efficient

Lucky Farales
Sep 30, 2023
Google

Very professional and gets right to the point.

Nancy Lewis
Sep 02, 2023
Google

Dr. Heywood is very caring and competent. He is also an excellent surgeon. I had a total knee replacement three years ago and it was a very positive experience and, thanks to him, my knee is great. Now it's time for a hip replacement and with his wonderful surgical expertise I'm looking forward to a great outcome. Thank you, Dr. Heywood.

Tami “Tami LP” Latorraca-Piumarta
Aug 11, 2023
Google

Friendly staff and Dr Heywood was engaging and sincere.

JP Pawloski
Aug 11, 2023
Google

An excellent surgeon.

Curtis Browning
Aug 10, 2023
Google

Excellent bedside manner. Friendly and clearly very knowledgeable.

Chaz Sampson
Aug 03, 2023
Google

Thought I would jump on here to share a wonderful experience I had with Dr. Heywood's office yesterday. My mother recently had a stroke and broke her elbow and is bed ridden at a skilled nursing facility so to say it is hard to get her to an appointment is an understatement. After getting dropped off by Para Cruz we walked in and were informed that the skilled nursing did not set up the appointment. To my luck I was met with Monica at the front. She instantly could see my stress when I heard my mom didn't have an appointment. She went above and beyond and squeezed my mom in so we could still see the Dr. that day. The entire appointment was a breeze and everyone was kind and considerate. After the appointment we had to wait almost an hour for Para Cruz to pick up my mother and while we were waiting outside, Monica came out to check on us and just give sweet conversation for just a bit. Sometimes people need a little extra love as they navigate a new normal due to a health episode and Monica was that for my mother yesterday. Just a little extra love from a total stranger to ease her anxiety and stress. Thank you Monica for being a ray of sunshine! On another note, my family has used Dr. Heywood's office for many broken bones and have always had the best care. Highly recommend this office!!

George Lopez
Aug 03, 2023
Google

Dr Heywood is a true professional. I had a very informative visit. The staff there is professional as well. Everyone made me feel at ease.

Allison Sharpe
Jul 25, 2023
Google

Dr Heywood is a great doctor And a very nice person. You never feel rushed regardless of how busy he is. He did surgery on my shoulder - it as good as new.

Ricardo Nell
Jul 07, 2023
Google

Dr. C. Heywood and assistants are outstanding.

Dana Cramblet
Jul 06, 2023
Google

Dr Heywood made me feel heard during my appointment and I felt like he will do anything to help me recover from my elbow surgery.

Nicolas DeBernardo
Jul 05, 2023
Google

Very friendly and very proactive

Dennis Scrimo
Jul 05, 2023
Google

Comfortable and pleasant experience

Frank Verdugo
Jun 15, 2023
Google

I had my first appointment with Dr. Heywood today. The doctor and his staff were all amazing. Very friendly,and it felt genuine. Thank you 😎

d h
Jun 14, 2023
Google

Dr Heywood is a great MD- Very intelligent- down to earth-

Puppy Squad
Jun 02, 2023
Google

I feel that Dr. Heywood is going to help me. He knows what is happening.

Maria Valdivia
Jun 01, 2023
Google

Receptionist gives the most beautiful, genuine, warm welcoming smile. The doctors Assistente was professional, a little bit shy, but kind. Doctor Heywood is great! He is to the point and handful, still take the time to acknowledge the patient feelings. When I take my elderly mom to her appointment, I get off happier. Thank you Dr. Heywood.

Tom McClellan
May 25, 2023
Google

He knows what he is doing. Thank you!!

Amanda Hill
May 25, 2023
Google

Very nice and informative.

Chris Metcalfe
May 25, 2023
Google

Christian is an amazing Dr. He helped me earlier this year after a mountain bike accident and now treated my daughter. One of the best.

Sheryl Brouse
May 23, 2023
Google

He was very nice and informative

Laurie Baumann
May 23, 2023
Google

Super stoked to get the accurate read of my MRI and open conversation about my care. Thank you for the evaluation.

Thomas and Lindsay Parry
May 11, 2023
Google

Great doc.

Alfredo Servin
May 08, 2023
Google

Good

Tobias Yeh
May 02, 2023
Google

Always great doctor. I know, I am one.

David Munoz
Apr 21, 2023
Google

I had a partial knee replacement surgery from Dr Heywood. I’ve never had any pain since the surgery from a few years ago.

Deborah Blankenship
Apr 21, 2023
Google

Love, love Dr Heywood. Not only is he a wonderful doctor but he is adorable & wears very cool shoes. He did my hip replacement in 2019 & I can’t tell you how much better my life is since the surgery. Thank you Dr H 😊

Carol Goldberg
Apr 11, 2023
Google

Dr. Heywood listens well and presents options for treatment clearly. Demonstrates caring. Had x-rays done on site. Referred to PT. Outstanding PT unit.

Joe Surwald
Mar 24, 2023
Google

First visit to Dr. Haywood's office staff was very professional and doctor was very attentive to my concerns with my injury.

Isabell Rybicki
Mar 14, 2023
Google

Check in and out was fast and easy. Dr Heywood and his assistant were both kind, and thorough with information. I was given my options. When I received my steroid shot in my hip I felt nothing! It was wonderful!

Tobias Yeh
Mar 08, 2023
Google

Dr. Heywood is awesome. Kind, listens. He put my wife’s badly fractured wrist back, so it was “anatomical” like new. I trained at the top Family Practice Residency in America out of 415 programs. They only took 12 people per year. We saw 90 patients a day in General Orthopedic Thursdays, so I’m commenting with knowledge about medicine. I also just finished writing a 480 page medical book titled: The Real Truth About Drugs and Medical Advice. Soon to be published.

Susan Thomas
Feb 28, 2023
Google

It was quite busy today, so the wait was a bit long. But every member of the staff with whom I dealt--PA, x-ray technician, receptionist--was pleasant, knowledgeable and efficient. And Dr. Heywood is five-star, all the way.

5 (79 ratings)

Assisting the Doctor:

PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT

Physician Assistants are highly skilled medical professionals. Dr. Heywood is joined by Ekaterina Gurzhi, 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. Heywood takes the time to explain everything to his patients. I have had an excellent experience so far and I have the utmost confidence in regard to my upcoming surgery.

- Jack T

Always makes you feel taken care of and safe. Office and ‘minions’ are the best I have experienced. Spends time to make sure you have time to ask questions and feel understood.

- Linda A

Excellent surgeon, willing to treat conservatively. Was offered a knee replacement by one of his associates and when I felt that was over treatment, I chose to get a second opinion with Dr Heywood. I’m comfortable now, pain free for the first time in years.

- Steve P