Robert E. Nakken, MD

Dr. Robert E. Nakken is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon at Southern Utah Orthopedics & Sports Medicine in Cedar City, Utah. A Cedar City native and former college basketball player at Southern Utah University, Dr. Nakken brings not only decades of clinical expertise but also a deep personal connection to the community he serves.

After earning degrees in biology and chemistry at SUU, he completed medical school at St. Louis University School of Medicine. He went on to complete his residency in orthopedic surgery at the Medical College of Wisconsin in Milwaukee. Since returning to Cedar City, Dr. Nakken has become a trusted leader in orthopedic care across Southern Utah.

Dr. Nakken was the first surgeon in the region to perform shoulder arthroscopy, including minimally invasive rotator cuff repairs. He has also advanced the quality of hip and knee surgery at Cedar City Hospital by introducing techniques such as anterior hip replacement, which can support quicker recovery. His efforts to improve surgical outcomes extend beyond the local community—he co-authored the Intermountain Health system’s infection prevention guidelines for surgery.

For more than 25 years, Dr. Nakken has served as the team physician for Southern Utah University. His specialties include joint replacement surgery of the hip, knee, and shoulder, as well as sports injury treatment and fracture care. Known for his compassionate approach and innovative techniques, Dr. Nakken partners with patients to help them regain mobility and enjoy life fully.

Outside of his practice, Dr. Nakken enjoys spending time with his wife, Sydney, and their five children. He values time in the mountains, attending sporting events, and giving back to the community he calls home.