Dr. A.J. Mencias specializes in complex reconstruction and sports medicine of the hand, wrist, forearm, and elbow.
Master surgeon and innovator
“In the realm of surgery, I firmly believe there is no ‘one-size-fits-all’ solution. Each patient presents a unique narrative, a distinct tapestry of health that demands more than a cookie-cutter approach. My commitment lies in weaving personalized treatment plans that respect and respond to these individual complexities. After all, it’s not about performing a procedure – it’s about nurturing healing, one tailored stitch at a time.”
— Dr. A.J. Mencias
The son of first-generation immigrants from the Philippines, his parents instilled in him the values of hard work and dedication. His father, a retired anesthesiologist, and his mother, a retired chemist, were his earliest inspiration to pursue a career in medicine.
After relocating to Indianapolis at a young age, Dr. Mencias’ journey towards becoming a leading orthopedic surgeon began. He graduated Magna Cum Laude from the University of Notre Dame in 1994 and went on to complete his medical degree with honors, including the Alpha Omega Alpha National Medical Honor Society, from the Indiana University School of Medicine in 1998. Driven by an insatiable thirst for knowledge, he pursued further specialization, completing his Orthopedic Surgery Residency at Indiana University in 2003, followed by the renowned Upper Extremity Surgery and Microsurgery Fellowship at The Indiana Hand to Shoulder Center.
Dr. A.J. Mencias is a Board-Certified, Fellowship-Trained orthopedic surgeon, specializing in complex reconstruction and sports medicine of the hand, wrist, forearm, and elbow. Known as the surgeon who “can fix this,” he has built an unmatched reputation for excellence in his field. As Physician President of South Bend Orthopaedics and chief consultant for hand, wrist, and elbow injuries for the University of Notre Dame Athletic Department, his expertise is sought after both locally, regionally, and nationally.
Beyond his clinical practice, Dr. Mencias is a respected thought leader, frequently speaking at national meetings and serving as an instructor at courses aimed at educating other surgeons on advanced techniques of hand, wrist, and elbow surgery. His innovative approach and commitment to pioneering technology have seen him serve in educational and implant development roles for multiple large orthopedic companies.
Pain Management Philosophy and Journey
Dr. Mencias is not just an orthopedic surgeon - he is committed to changing the narrative around pain management. After a tragic event that shook his core beliefs, Dr. Mencias made a profound decision: to significantly limit the number of opioids he prescribed for pain relief. This courageous step stemmed from his dedication to his patients' well-being and his determination to avoid the potential risks of addiction associated with these drugs.
As part of South Bend Orthopedics and Sports Medicine for nearly 20 years, Dr. Mencias has always prioritized patient care and comfort. However, the life-altering incident made him question traditional pain management methods. He decided to take a stand, making a radical shift in his practice.
"This has become a paradigm shift in how I practice medicine," he explains, highlighting his commitment to a safer, opioid-sparing approach.
As an opioid-sparing surgeon, Dr. Mencias employs a range of alternative treatments, including physical and occupational therapy, pain pumps, behavioral interventions, injections, and other modern modalities. Each of these methods is designed to reduce pain without compromising a patient's quality of life or exposing them to the risk of addiction.
Dr. Mencias' commitment to safe, effective pain management reflects his dedication to his patients and his determination to improve the standard of healthcare.
A Personal Approach to Patient Care
Despite his extensive professional accomplishments, Dr. Mencias remains personable and approachable.
He understands the challenges of a busy lifestyle and values his patients’ time and lifestyle. His treatment philosophy is rooted in state-of-the-art, evidence-based medicine, using innovative technology to help his patients return to mobility and function as quickly as possible.
When he’s not in the operating room or consulting with patients, Dr. Mencias enjoys spending time with his wife, Karen, and their five children: Mackenzie, Mia, Mikayla, Jack, and Gus.
An enthusiastic watch collector, he appreciates the intricate craftsmanship that mirrors the precision required in his surgical work. A dedicated member of the Michiana community, Dr. Mencias is also actively involved in charity and community service, with special involvement in the Salvation Army and the Kroc Center.
Dr. A.J. Mencias’ story is one of dedication, innovation, and unwavering commitment to his patients. Whether you are a patient, a fellow surgeon, or a member of our community, we invite you to learn more about Dr. Mencias and experience the exceptional care he provides.
Board Certification
- Diplomate of American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery
- Certificate of Added Qualifications in Surgery of the Hand (CAQSH)
Fellowship
- Upper Extremity Surgery and Microsurgery, The Indiana Hand Center
Residency
- Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
Medical School
- Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
Undergraduate
- University of Notre Dame, South Bend, IN
Medical Society Memberships
- Fellow of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
- Indiana State Medical Association
- Indiana Orthopaedic Society
- Indianapolis Hand Society
- Notre Dame Orthopaedic Society
