Physical medicine & rehabilitation
Kurt A. Smith, D.O.
Locations: Des Moines (Downtown), Ankeny, Clive, Johnston, Pella, Pleasant Hill, West Des Moines

About Dr. Smith
Dr. Kurt Smith is a board-certified physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist. He is originally from Nashua, Iowa, and has been practicing since 1996.
Dr. Smith served as the medical director of the Center for Rehabilitative Medicine at Mercy Medical Center for 16 years. He has presented on physical medicine and rehabilitation at several local, statewide and national medical seminars and holds membership in many medical societies.
Dr. Smith enjoys staying active in his free time by running, playing volleyball and traveling.
University of Minnesota; Minneapolis, MN
Internship
Muskeogon General Hospital; Muskegon, MI
Medical Degree
Des Moines University; Des Moines, IA
Undergrad
Wartburg College; Waverly, IA
Muscular disorders
Amputations
Strokes
Spinal cord injuries
Traumatic brain injuries
EMG testing
Injuries associated with motor vehicle accidents
Work-related injuries
IME
Patient Reviews
July 4, 2025
Dr. Smith is always so professional and attentive to my needs. He answers my questions!! I always feel he sees me as a person, which is not always the case.
Patient Submitted Review
July 2, 2025
I have been being treated by Dr. Smith for some of the symptoms of my Parkinsons Disease. Dr. Smith is a very caring, knowledgeable man and listens very well. We are making steady progress in alleviating the stiffness in my left hand and arm and I am very happy with the care I have received from Dr. Smith and Iowa Ortho.
Patient Submitted Review
June 28, 2025
Couldn’t have had a better experience . Dr. Smith is an excellent doctor . Such a kind man and his staff was attentive and went above and beyond at my visit. ⭐️
Patient Submitted Review
June 17, 2025
I am so thankful for the time Dr.Smith took to explain the process of the test I was having done ,and how kind Dr.Smith was during this procedure! Overall it was a wonderful experience. All staff members were extremely kind as well! This is a wonderful place!
Patient Submitted Review
May 5, 2025
Dr Smith was exceptionally kind, considerate, and empathetic during my visit. We conversed about my career, and I felt a genuine human connection to him. He made an uncomfortable procedure quite tolerable, maintaining high professional standards. I feel providers everywhere could benefit from following this gentleman’s precedence regarding ‘bedside manner.’ He is at the top of his class!
Patient Submitted Review
April 30, 2025
Dr Smith was very nice and professional. He throughly explained everything that was going to be done on the nerve testing. I was very pleased.
Patient Submitted Review
April 25, 2025
Dr. Smith was kind, he explained everything that he was doing, and he made the test very manageable for me. An excellent physician.
Patient Submitted Review
April 24, 2025
Doing this review for my mother-in-law who saw Dr. Smith. She is not one to throw a compliment out unless well deserved. She was so impressed with Dr. Smith on every level and he was so kind she noted.
Patient Submitted Review
April 23, 2025
Both Dr. Smith and his nurse were the nicest and most caring that I have seen in a very long time. Dr. Smith takes the time to talk to you and actually listens to your concerns and doesn’t just rush you in and out of the office.
Patient Submitted Review
April 21, 2025
I love Dr Smith he’s so kind! He takes the time out to REALLY listen to the problems you’re having and if needed he will refer you to the appropriate Dr you need for your issue(s).
Patient Submitted Review
April 11, 2025
Dr. Smith was very thorough and professional. All details of the procedure were carefully described and any potential irritation was appropriately forewarned. Everything went perfect!
Patient Submitted Review
March 24, 2025
Was a quick in and out visit….everyone there was very nice and helpfull…Dr explained things well
Patient Submitted Review
March 17, 2025
Everyone was very nice and Dr. Smith was very knowledgeable and very polite. I had a good experience.
Patient Submitted Review
March 7, 2025
He was very relaxing and explained what he was doing when I asked questions. He was great to deal with and very nice.
Patient Submitted Review
March 6, 2025
Check in was easy. Staff very pleasant. Dr Smith let me know what was happening at all times and carried on a conversation as well.
Patient Submitted Review
March 6, 2025
I was dreading the test Dr Smith was going to give me because a friend had the test at another hospital and said it was very painful. Dr. Smith didn’t hurt me at all!! He was so kind. My experience at Iowa Ortho superb!!!
Patient Submitted Review
March 4, 2025
Kirt explained the procedure and made me very comfortable. Very professional. I would recommend him.
Patient Submitted Review
February 11, 2025
I went for an EMG on my right arm. Dr Smith was very nice , courteous, and explained what he was doing every step of the procedure.
Patient Submitted Review
February 10, 2025
Dr. Smith performed EMG’s on both arms. He was very professional, excellent in his skill and a great communicator. His staff was none the less !
Patient Submitted Review
February 8, 2025
Dr. Smith was amazing, he walked me through every step and let me know what was happening. It was a very refreshing aspect from a provider.
Patient Submitted Review
February 4, 2025
He was very thorough during my EMG visit and let me know everything as he did the test what I would/should feel. Made me feel very comfortable thanks dr smith!
Patient Submitted Review
January 31, 2025
Dr. Smith was very calming, professional, and personable throughout the test. It was very much appreciated.
Patient Submitted Review
January 21, 2025
He was wonderful! Walked me through the process, made sure I was okay. Helped me sit up and confirmed that I was able to walk out okay!
Patient Submitted Review
January 17, 2025
He was very professional and friendly. . Explaind my issue. and the procedure. Was Calm and detailed . He was very helpful .
Patient Submitted Review
January 16, 2025
Walked in sat for a second ln the lobby ,was called , got put into a Dr/patient room waited 2 minutes , seen Dr.did the nerve test asked a few questions and was on my way home less that 30 minutes from when I arrived.. The one thing I noticed was I had a little bit more than a few questions going into the appointment and with out asking most of them I left with them all answered. The Dr was very polite and thorough with explaining everything and did a good job helping me not be as nervous as I thought I would be . Thank you staff and thank you Dr Smith for making my visit a pleasant one ….
Patient Submitted Review
January 16, 2025
The Iowa Ortho scheduling folks were awesome to work with! They kept me in the loop on any cancellations and was able to get my appointment moved ahead by their constant vigilance. Dr.Smith was wonderful to work with at my appointment. He answered all my questions very thoroughly and can’t say enough about what a great physician he is!
Patient Submitted Review
January 11, 2025
Dr Smith explained the EMG process throughly as he was working. He is a very pleasant and kind professional.
Patient Submitted Review
October 17, 2024
Dr. Smith was very professional and caring. He took plenty of time to assess my problems and offered me informed decisions on the path he thought I should take forward to help my pain!
Patient Submitted Review
September 11, 2024
I see Dr. Smith at Iowa Ortho. He is the best. So kind, caring and knows exactly what to ask you. If you can, have your primary Dr. refer you to him. He helps me and I am sure he can help you.
Patient Submitted Review
November 5, 2023
Dr. Smith treated my daughter and was wonderful with her. He showed her compassion and kindness. He was patient with her and took the time to get to the core of her injury she has been fighting for well over a year. She is grateful for Dr. Smith and grateful for the much more hopeful return to sports that she has missed so much.
Patient Submitted Review
November 2, 2023
(Translated by Google) The doctor who treated me, Kurt A Smith, was very professional, his attention was very wonderful, I was satisfied. (Original) El doctor que me atendió Kurt A Smith, muy profesional, muy maravillosa su atención, quedé satisfecho.
Patient Submitted Review
October 19, 2022
Dr Smith is by far the best I have met for my orthopedic needs I have been disabled my entire life and he is the only dr I will ever choose to see, he listens to all questions and concerns and addresses them to the best of his knowledge, highly recommend him!
Patient Submitted Review
October 12, 2022
Dr Smith and his staff are like family to me . I have been going to him for years now . Everyone is so friendly and always greets you with a smile
Patient Submitted Review
September 14, 2022
Thank you Kurt for your expertise and your professionalism wait time was minimal and results quickly Thank you all again Mark
Patient Submitted Review
September 6, 2022
From start to finish=A+. Receptionist was very friendly and fast. Doctor Smith was kind respectful and gentle. Thank you
Patient Submitted Review
August 25, 2022
I was referred to Dr Kurt Smith by my PCP following a car accident in 2003. He treated the whiplash injury and was getting me in a good place when a 2nd accident caused significant damage to my cervical spine in 2004, resulting in a fusion at UofI. Dr Smith helped see that I got imaging and to the correct specialists promptly. He also did what he could to treat the pain temporarily. The accident has caused a multitude of lifetime spine, muscle, and nerve issues that Dr Smith continues to treat and monitor. He has always been compassionate, kind, and treated me (and my family) with the utmost respect. He also treats everything with the urgency it deserves. Any time something is out of his realm, he has referred me on either within Iowa Ortho or elsewhere. I appreciate that Dr Smith recognizes the complexity of my situation. I honestly don’t know what I would have done without him as my Dr through some of the hardest years of my life following my accident and battles with CRPS. Thank you to Iowa Ortho, Dr Smith, and his caring staff for all they have done and continue to do as I continue my take back journey.
Patient Submitted Review
April 15, 2022
Dr Smith is an amazing dr.. from fantastic bed side manners to one of the most caring and compassionate doctor I have ever met..would I recommend him to someone, absolutely.. when I had my nerve testing done , I cussed up a storm.. I apologized, but he told me no need to apologize..him and Dr. Paulson are a great team and I will make sure if I ever have issues again after I get fixed..that I am sent back to these 2 for sure
Patient Submitted Review
April 13, 2022
Dr Smith has taken care of my Mom, Linda Bennett since the 1990’s. He also took care of my Grandma and now my father. I am so grateful to Dr Smith. He helps control their pain without addictive drugs. If Dr Smith can’t help he always finds a Physician that can.
Patient Submitted Review
March 24, 2022
Dr Smith was very personable with a great sense of humor. He explained everything he was going to do, made me feel comfortable and relaxed which was very appreciated!
Patient Submitted Review
March 17, 2022
I fought for 3.5 years to get spinal fusion surgery and during that time a nerve was crushed that caused my right leg/calf to tighten and my Achilles to freeze. Dr. Smith could see and feel immediately and made sure I knew it wasn’t in my head as I had been told by others. He explained what he was going to try and always was willing to listen to me and any ideas or concerns I had. He understood I dislike (a LOT) needles and with each procedure puts me at ease and makes it as quick and painless as possible. I highly recommend him!
Patient Submitted Review
January 26, 2022
Dr Smith and his staff are awesome! They take the time necessary to explain things so the average person can understand what’s going on!
Patient Submitted Review
January 4, 2022
Dr. Kurt Smith is the best Dr. For neuropathy. He has brought me from wheelchair, walker to using a cane outside and walking in my home. Still have a little ways to go, but he is great!
Patient Submitted Review
December 19, 2021
Love Dr Smith. He seems to really care about me and what is going on. I’ve been seeing him for awhile. So far he has not stopped trying to get me the relief I need to continue. I highly recommend him and iowa ortho!!!
Patient Submitted Review
November 17, 2021
Dr. Smith really listens and cares about what I have to say. He doesn’t question the pain I’m in or doubt it’s impact on my daily life. I am very grateful for that and very grateful for him. Thank you Dr. Smith for being someone I can depend on. Megan Rosonke
Patient Submitted Review
November 3, 2021
I been seeing dr Smith since 1998 he the best I wouldn’t want anyone but him, he take real pride in his patients, he love talking to his patients, he sweet, I hope he never retire I love him as a best friend, the front desk is very kind and his nurse very sweet , out of all the dr I well give him 20 stars thank u dr Smith for everything your ears for listening your smile your laugh always welling to ask about the family thank you I would recommend him to anyone ,HE GREAT GREAT THE BEST donna walker
Patient Submitted Review
October 23, 2021
I was a little nervous because I didn’t know what to expect. Dr. Smith explained everything he was doing and what he was going to do next. If I have to have this test or anything like it again, I would like to have him as my doctor. I had heard that this test was very painful. Maybe it depends on who performs the test, but I did not have a lot of discomfort. Thank you Dr. Smith.
Patient Submitted Review
October 14, 2021
I had a good experience at IA Ortho. The staff was pleasant and helpful. Dr. Smith was the very best. He had a sense of humor and made me feel relaxed about my test. I would highly recommend IA Ortho and Dr. Smith to every one. Thank you.
Patient Submitted Review
October 2, 2021
Dr Smith is very nice and very good at his job! He takes time to talk to you while doing the procedure and makes you comfortable. I would recommend him to anyone.
Patient Submitted Review
July 30, 2021
I had never had an EMG done before and was so nervous! From the second Dr. Smith came into my room until the second he left, he was nothing but amazing! His bedside manner was off the charts! He explained every single thing he was doing before he did it which helped me relax so much! I would absolutely go see him again if needed and would recommend him to everyone!
Patient Submitted Review
May 28, 2021
Dr Smith was very patient with me and took time for my concerns during exam, for questions and seem to be interested in my symptoms to make correct diagnosis, friendly, but serious, the office workers all seemed to have me as priority of the hour. Thanks Iowa Ortho
Patient Submitted Review
May 18, 2021
Great listening skills. Dr Smith took the time needed to assist me and has a wealth of knowledge around sports and muscle injuries. He is easy to talk to and is very kind.
Patient Submitted Review
May 12, 2021
Dr. Smith is very professional and has an excellent attitude. I would very much recommend him to everyone in need of his help.
Patient Submitted Review
April 7, 2021
They are Very professional doctors out there and they make you feel good and comfortable with them. So and a few words excellent hospital 👏🏼👏🏼
Patient Submitted Review
April 2, 2021
Iowa Ortho has been so easy to work with. I appreciate everything they have done for me. Dr Smith has been awesome in helping control my neuropathy. I am able to walk all day at my phlebotomy job and still enjoy life at home.
Patient Submitted Review
March 15, 2021
Great guy. I’ve had the pleasure of seeing Dr. Smith in the past which is why I specifically asked to see him again. Very attentive to the things I have going on, very professional yet just a good “down to earth” type of guy. Explained everything going on and what our next plan is to alleviate the issues I have. Can’t say Thank You enough
Patient Submitted Review
January 22, 2021
I hate to say that I’ve had to see Dr Smith for three EMG procedures. He remembered me both the 2nd and 3rd times I was in and was friendly and welcoming each each. He always makes sure I’m doing OK with each step of the procedure. Highly recommend!
Patient Submitted Review
January 13, 2021
Dr.Smith has treated me since 2013 and I have always been pleased with my visits. What I recall mostly is when my injury first occurred after seeing two other doctors who said “it will go away” which it didn’t Dr Smith ordered a ct scan and physical therapy which to this day I’m grateful for. I have the utmost confidence in him and my treatment with him.
Patient Submitted Review
January 12, 2021
Dr. Smith took time to explain what was being done and why, and asked for my input in my healthcare decisions. He was very pleasant and personable.
Patient Submitted Review
January 5, 2021
Dr. Smith is an amazing doctor. He listens to what your dealing with. He’s understanding and I never feel like I’m being rushed through. The nurses and the ladies at the front desk were very friendly and helpful. If you have a question and if they don’t have an answer they will find out the answer before you leave.
Patient Submitted Review
October 20, 2020
I love Dr. Smith. He always takes plenty of time to figure out my pain and helps me choose what is right for my personal recovery.
Patient Submitted Review
September 11, 2020
Dr Smith did a Great job at explaining everything to me step by step. He was very kind and compassionate making sure I was doing okay during the testing.
Patient Submitted Review
July 27, 2020
Dr. Smith is a great, kind and compassionate doctor! When you have an appointment with him, you need to make sure you are there 10 minutes before your appointment. Dr. Smith, and his office, values your time and as his patients we need to value his time. I have seen Dr. Smith for years and have never been late seeing him past my appointment time. When he comes in to see you, he focuses just on you and your issues. You will not feel rushed. After the appointment is done, you will have a game plan and he normally walks you to the door and opens for you.
Patient Submitted Review
June 21, 2020
I’ve been seeing Dr. Kurt Smith for many years. He really listens to what you have to say and cares about getting you what you need from him. I also like that he is very much about being on time. He’s considerate of your time and expects the same for his time. I think he’s one of the Best!!!
Patient Submitted Review
June 17, 2020
I was pleased at how quick Dr. Smith got my test done! I was in and out of his office in less then 45 minutes! Very efficient staff!
Patient Submitted Review
May 30, 2020
Dr. Smith has always been a caring and knowledgeable Dr. Always appreciate his caring attitude. Lori Kramer-Lydon
Patient Submitted Review
May 27, 2020
Dr. Smith was punctual, very thorough and explained every test to the fullest on my electromyography. I felt very safe in his office with regard to Covid 19. I was greeted @ the doorway by a nurse who took my temperature and the office followed all the protocols regarding the pandemic. He summarized his findings with an exact diagnosis which was confirmed by the orthopedic surgeon. He had me on my way in less than 20 minutes. I would highly recommend him. Thank you!
Patient Submitted Review
May 19, 2020
Dr. Smith and staff are trying to get me the help I need, if it is out there. Thank you to all who have been involved, I appreciate you. Your kindness and professional service is spot on. I highly recommend you.
Patient Submitted Review
April 20, 2020
The appointments that I have had with Dr. Smith have been great. So far I have had great outcomes. He takes his time and explains things. Very professional but caring at the same time. It’s always nice to find a doctor who shows empathy with his patients. I highly recommend him. I drive 2 1/2 hours to see him
Patient Submitted Review
March 14, 2020
Great physician. Great bedside manner. Gentle, caring, compassionate, every time I see him. He is the standard to which I hold all practitioners to.
Patient Submitted Review
February 18, 2020
Dr.Smith ALWAYS takes time to listen to me and what I need. He does what he can to help me have the best life I possibly can. I have a chronic condition that will only get worse, yet we work together to keep my life as active as I possibly can and make the pain as tolerable as possible. I am so incredibly grateful to have Dr. Smith helping me.
Patient Submitted Review
February 6, 2020
Dr. Smith is excellent in that he listens to and addresses issues with genuine concern. He and his staff are the most efficient I have seen with wait times seldom exceeding 5 minutes.
Patient Submitted Review
January 16, 2020
He always listens to my concerns. He is very helpful. He does aa wonderful job taking care of me/health. He also listens to my spouse when he brings up issues i am having. I am very pleased with Dr. Smith.
Patient Submitted Review
January 11, 2020
Dr. Smith was very personable & thorough in his exam. He offers cutting edge therapy & has a good understanding of the health care system. We are happy to have been referred to him & look forward to working with him in the future.
Patient Submitted Review
November 22, 2019
Dr. Smith has been a compassionate listener, researcher of my challenging conditions, and very helpful. His staff has been wonderful, very patient with my questions, and I consider us a team!
Patient Submitted Review
November 2, 2019
Kurt does a great job, very compassionate and really cares about his patients, they are treated like family.
Patient Submitted Review
October 24, 2019
Dr. Smith was very polite, professional, courteous and punctual! All things I wish more doctors were. I would definitely recommend Dr Smith to anyone that needed to see ortho.
Patient Submitted Review
October 4, 2019
Kurt A. Smith, DO is a great doctor. He is very gentle when doing carpol tunnel testing. He is very experienced. I would go to him again.
Patient Submitted Review
September 25, 2019
Took the time to understand what I am going through and very willing to help me to figure out what I need to do to get better
Patient Submitted Review
July 24, 2019
He is by far the best I’ve ever been to. Very kind, and gentle. He definitely knows how to make you feel relax without stressing or worrying. I would recommend him for sure.
Patient Submitted Review
May 26, 2019
He is very professional, always listens to me and I just really appreciate his genuine personality.
Patient Submitted Review
April 25, 2019
Dr. Smith has been great to deal with. He listens, asks lots of questions, and is very thorough. After a nightmare of a work comp claim dr. Smith got me the treatment i should have had from the other doctors i saw before. He’s been a great help! He’s an easy man to deal with and makes you feel comfortable and is easy to talk to. I would recommend him to anyone looking for a good doctor that knows what he’s doing!
Patient Submitted Review
April 7, 2019
Dr Smith answered all of my questions, and explained everything to me in a manner I could understand. Dr Smith and his staff are caring people, and I would recommend their office to anyone that needs better bone health.
Patient Submitted Review
March 28, 2019
Very thorough and professional. He explained everything that was going to happen during the EMG test. I would recommend him to my family and friends
Patient Submitted Review
March 26, 2019
Dr Smith has done an excellent job controlling/managing flare ups for my chronic pain condition. If it it something out of his speciality he is well connected with other good doctors that can help. I would highly recommend Dr Smith.
Patient Submitted Review
October 24, 2018
Dr. Smith is 1 of 8 specialists I have seen over the last 18 months. Smith has helped me get answers that all others have missed or been puzzled on. I have read the other bad reviews, that has NOT been my experience. He is been extremely knowledgeable without making me feel uneducated. He has fully explained everything! He is in a tough spot of sometimes telling patients bad news (me one of them), but that doesn’t make him a bad doctor. I am very thankful to have found Dr. Smith and I highly recommend him! He has been nothing but polite, friendly, and great to work with. Thank you so much for all your help!
Patient Submitted Review
June 13, 2018
I thank God for Dr. Smith. When I could not stand he stood for me. People don’t realize how difficult it is to handle a WC case. Insurance Co. wants you working regardless of your condition and the Doctor wants to help you,unlike a non WC case he has a lot to juggle. Dr. Smith is kind, cosiderate and truly cares.
Patient Submitted Review
May 29, 2018
Dr. Smith was extremely professional and friendly, and was able to diagnose a problem that 3 other doctors had trouble diagnosing.
Patient Submitted Review
June 29, 2017
I feel so lucky to have Dr. Smith for a Doctor! He understands my disease better than anyone has and without him, I wouldn’t be walking or moving around at all. He takes the time to listen to me! He has NEVER made me wait for an appointment, I love that! He is there for me whenever I need him and always does whatever he can to help me. He has always been very kind and respectful to me and my family. I have been blessed to have him as my doctor. I’ll never leave.
Patient Submitted Review
January 5, 2017
I feel so blessed to have found Dr. Kurt Smith and Iowa Otho!! Dr. Smith has given me a new quality of life by using trigger point injections as part of my pain management care. Dr. Smith’s table side manner is very professional and his listening skills are remarkable. Saying THANK YOU just doesn’t seem enough!!
Patient Submitted Review
September 12, 2016
Excellent physician. Diagnosed and treated my problem after years of others just prescribing pain pills. Mostly pain free after physical therapy and a thorough discussion of things to do and not do.
Patient Submitted Review
April 30, 2016
Dr. Smith has a wonderful personality and makes me feel like he genuinely cares about my mental and physical health and my family’s well-being. While things have been difficult for me both mentally and physically this last year, I always feel better after meeting with him.
Patient Submitted Review
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