Physician biography

Keith W. Lawson, M.D.

“The practice of orthopaedic surgery provides an immediacy of effort into results that is unmatched by any other medical specialty. I strive to combine the surgical and technological innovations of the 21st century with old-fashioned, empathetic treatment of the individual patient.”

Dr. Keith W. Lawson received his Bachelor of Arts Degree from Texas A&M University. He is a 1992 graduate of the University of Nebraska Medical Center with a Master of Science in Cell Biology and Anatomy. Dr. Lawson obtained his Doctor of Medicine Degree from the University of Nebraska College of Medicine in 1996. Following medical school, Dr. Lawson completed an Orthopaedic Surgery residency at the University of Texas Health Center in San Antonio. 

Dr. Lawson is board-certified in Orthopaedic Surgery and is a member of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, American Medical Association, Nebraska Medical Association, and Lancaster County Medical Society. He also holds membership in the Texas A&M University Former Students Association, UNMC Alumni Association, and Alamo Orthopaedic Society.

Dr. Lawson enjoys travel, golf, hunting, and many sports including volleyball and snow skiing. He lives in Lincoln with his wife and two daughters.

Specialties

Joint Replacement
Arthroscopic Surgery
Surgery of the Elbow, Hip, Knee & Shoulder
General Orthopaedics

Education

B.S. – Texas A & M University, 1990
M.D. – University of Nebraska Medical Center, 1996

Board Certification

American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery

Post Grad Training

Residency: The University of Texas Health Science Center- San Antonio, TX, 1996-2001

Associations

American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
American Medical Association
Nebraska Medical Association
Phi Rho Sigma Medical Society

Clinical Team

Advanced Practice Provider: Laura A. Wegehaupt, PA-C

Primary Clinical Assistant: Sandy D., LPN

South office – Lincoln

6900 A Street
Lincoln, NE 68510
Phone: (402) 436-2000

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Patient Submitted Review

Patient Submitted Review

Mar-2025

He is very good with his patients. Very friendly and honest. He did a great job with my hip replacement and is now. Providing the care for my knees so I can run again. He is an excellent surgeon and great with his patients
rater8 Verified Patient

rater8 Verified Patient

Mar-2025

Best surgeon ever! Very approachable and listens to my concerns. Diagnosed and treated the problem. Love his nurse,Kathy, and his PA, Laura. Everyone there is amazing!!
Patient Submitted Review

Patient Submitted Review

Mar-2025

Nebraska Orthopedic Center is Awesome. I've seen several of the Dr's. Recently Dr Lawson replaced my knee. I'm doing awesome. Pain is gone. Update , Dr. Lawsen is going to do my other hip in July. Trust him implicitly!
Patient Submitted Review

Patient Submitted Review

Feb-2025

I had both of my hips replaced by Dr. Lawson. Both were great experiences and I’m grateful to have my quality of life restored. I will happily recommend him to anyone that may need his services.
Patient Submitted Review

Patient Submitted Review

Jan-2025

Dr. Lawson was great. He listened to my questions and explained them to me what was going on in a way that I could understand. Being a good listener, and having the patience to take the time to make you understand seems like is getting more rare with younger doctors. I felt like he cared about me as a patient and not just one more visit to collect on.
Patient Submitted Review

Patient Submitted Review

Jan-2025

Seeing Dr. Lawson is always a good experience. He and his nurse are welcoming and very helpful. And I know I’ll be pain free for along time. Thanks!
Patient Submitted Review

Patient Submitted Review

Dec-2024

This was my first visit at this orthopedic clinic. I saw Dr Lawson. He explains things well and has a good bedside manner. I would go back to him. Staff at clinic all professional and polite.
Patient Submitted Review

Patient Submitted Review

Oct-2024

Excellent choice for orthopedic care. The staff was friendly, efficient and professional. Doctor Lawson was thorough, explaining what was found, and took time to answer all of my questions.
Patient Submitted Review

Patient Submitted Review

Oct-2024

Had a great meeting with Dr Lawson. Shared my medical concerns, he had x-rays taken and gave me a very honest evaluation and some suggestions. I appreciate his honest evaluations. Easy to talk and answers all questions.
Patient Submitted Review

Patient Submitted Review

Oct-2024

I'm so thankful to see Dr. Lawson in my time of need!! He took care of my pain and has me back as a patient again!! Thank you for being there when I needed you, Dr. Lawson
Patient Submitted Review

Patient Submitted Review

Sep-2024

Excellent service, kind and caring people and very attentive doctor. Dr. Lawson takes the time to explain in laymen’s terms what is going on and makes sure you are comfortable with his explanation.
Patient Submitted Review

Patient Submitted Review

Sep-2024

My appointment went very well.He gave me options answers questions I had and was very informative.He is a very funny doctor that had be laughing,great sense of humor.
Patient Submitted Review

Patient Submitted Review

Sep-2024

Prompt timing on appt., support staff gracious and effective, Dr. Lawson answered all questions, gave reasons for strategy of treatment and future options. Completely satisfied.
Patient Submitted Review

Patient Submitted Review

Sep-2024

Keith’s professionalism and personal approach to treatment!His knowledge of the area of concern and ability to reassure the mode of treatment!His ability to make the patient feel at ease and comfortable with the process!
Patient Submitted Review

Patient Submitted Review

Sep-2024

I’ve been going to him for bad hips & knees caused by arthritis mainly. He gives me cortisone shots in both hips & now my right knee. He answers all my questions & has good bedside manner. He uses humor to explain your issues & what the treatment plan will be. Nurse Sandy is wonderful & keeps things moving seamlessly. They are always on schedule too which is great. The appointments don’t take long even when you get Xrays & an injection. I definitely recommend!
rater8 Verified Patient

rater8 Verified Patient

Aug-2024

I have a long history with this facility. Dr Lawson took over my case when Reckmeyer retired. We put off surgery as long as I was comfortable and functional. When I wasn’t, I received top notch surgery care. I’m pleased with my progress and recovery. I would recommend Dr Lawson. Especially if you need a doc with a sense of humor.
rater8 Verified Patient

rater8 Verified Patient

Aug-2024

Thank you Dr. Lawson not only is my right knee replacement doing great but I’m also looking forward to the left knee replacement next year. Thank you for always joking, it makes these situations a little lighter. Also shout out to Sandy, she is very caring and knowledgeable. M. McDonald
Patient Submitted Review

Patient Submitted Review

Aug-2024

My visit was absolutely amazing. Dr. Lawson looked at the x-ray imaging looked at me. Understood what I do for a living for the US Army and did what’s best for me for relief and long-term plan to live a long, healthy life.
Patient Submitted Review

Patient Submitted Review

Aug-2024

Dr.Lawson knows what he's doing, and does a beautiful job, doing it. Very professional and prompt. He's already did one of my knees and he's going to do my other one soon. I'm stoked!
Patient Submitted Review

Patient Submitted Review

Aug-2024

My first visit and I immediately felt at ease. I am reassured that Dr.Lawson will take care of my needs. He had a wonderful bedside manner and his knowledge is impeccable.
Patient Submitted Review

Patient Submitted Review

Jul-2024

I've known 3 orthopedic surgeons in my life and Dr. Lawson is undoubtedly one of the best surgeons I could have been assigned for my shoulder surgery. He's professional, courteous, through, and explains things in such a way that you can understand what he sees and his actions plan on helping your reconstruction and recovery of any work he does. He is patient and takes into consideration how he communicates with the patient by making sure you understand his plan of action with the layman in mind. I highly recommend Dr. Lawson and the Nebraska Orthopedic Center team.
Patient Submitted Review

Patient Submitted Review

Jun-2024

Everything was great. Dr. Lawson did a wonderful job on my right knee replacement and soon it will be time for my left knee to be replaced. Thank you also to all the staff.
rater8 Verified Patient

rater8 Verified Patient

Jun-2024

Dr. Lawson was professional. He showed me my x-rays, explained my options for treating my left knee, and. administered a shot in the knee very gently. His humor helped easy my anxiety. Excellent doctor!
Patient Submitted Review

Patient Submitted Review

May-2024

I was pleasantly surprised my appointment time and actual time was the same! Very fast and friendly service. I had X-rays which also went well. I’m hoping the shot helps because Dr didn’t really examine the problem. I’m used to Dr evaluating more with manipulation to see movement and he didn’t do that. Again, very friendly and prompt service today!
Patient Submitted Review

Patient Submitted Review

Apr-2024

Very friendly and professional. He explained everything looking at my x-rays what was going on? The staff is very friendly and helpful. I was in and out of the office in a very timely fashion.
Patient Submitted Review

Patient Submitted Review

Apr-2024

Dr. Lawson was very good explaining my shoulder issues. He gave me a steroid shot and I did not feel any pain. I would recommend Dr Lawson to others that are having pain issues.
Patient Submitted Review

Patient Submitted Review

Apr-2024

Dr Lawson is always friendly & welcoming. He was straightforward about what my plan of action should be. He listened to my concerns & felt like I had all the time I needed with him.
Patient Submitted Review

Patient Submitted Review

Mar-2024

Dr. Lawson did an excellent job replacing my knee. I am improving more every day and look forward to completing a full recovery in a relatively short period of time. I would highly recommend him if you are in need of a joint replacement!
Patient Submitted Review

Patient Submitted Review

Mar-2024

Quickly checked in and the waiting time was minimal. Friendly and professional. Dr examined, he had already read chart. Determination made and I was out the door. Short and sweet visit. Nice atmosphere
Patient Submitted Review

Patient Submitted Review

Mar-2024

Dr. Lawson has been taking care of me for years and has always given me excellent care! He has a wonderful personality as well as speaks to his patients in terms that they understand, and is always very caring!
rater8 Verified Patient

rater8 Verified Patient

Feb-2024

I've seen Dr Lawson in the past and once again he has exceeded my expectations. This was a new problem and I am very happy with the treatment and advice I received. Will definitely return if I have future need for treatment.
Patient Submitted Review

Patient Submitted Review

Feb-2024

Dr Lawson did my hip replacement and did a fantastic job. He was honest about what would happen, answered my questions and made me feel that I was in good hands
Patient Submitted Review

Patient Submitted Review

Jan-2024

I have used Dr Lawson for a bum knee for many years. I have always been pleased with the care he has provided. I know I will eventually need to have it replaced and Dr Lawson will be my choice.
Patient Submitted Review

Patient Submitted Review

Jan-2024

On a balmy winter day w/cloudy skies, Dr. Lawson entered our conference room and brought sunshine with his big smile and friendly greeting! He quickly explained an x-ray showing my injuries, what happened and how to go forward with treatment. He answered our questions and gave encouragement to quell our doubts about age-related injuries. He maintained calm composure for the interview inserting his trademark witticisms for levity in a serious health concern discussion. We are thankful to have support for this sprained ankle, complicated by an earlier in life bout w/polio plus current age challenges.Thanks,Dr. Lawson!
Patient Submitted Review

Patient Submitted Review

Jan-2024

Doctor Lawson is my go to physician when I have joint pain. He fits me in without an excessively long wait and always greats me with an upbeat and pleasant demeanor His treatments always work and even when I go in with severe pain I know l will feel great relief in a short time. I don’t know how Id get along without him. It gives me a secure feeling knowing he’s there to provide fast relief and with a concerning caring attitude towards his patients while he explains the issues and what your seeing on the ex rays and what all your options are. I am confident he always steers me in the right direction. I am so glad I found him as he has taken care of all my joint issues over the years so expertly.
Patient Submitted Review

Patient Submitted Review

Jan-2024

Thank God for the skills and knowledge of Dr. Lawson, PA Laura, and nurse Sandy. I had both knees replaced and they do a great job and are great at answering all of my questions.
Patient Submitted Review

Patient Submitted Review

Dec-2023

Staff was friendly, knowledgeable, professional. Dr Lawson also all the above,easy to ask questions and he takes time to give answers. After leaving i thought to myself that it was a very pleasurable experience. I would recommend to all.
Patient Submitted Review

Patient Submitted Review

Nov-2023

Got in promptly after check in. Friendly staff. Dr Lawson did my knee surgery after a fall. He is incredibly personable, gives you all the time you need to ask questions and get answers. I am so blessed that I chose Dr Lawson prior to my fall to have as my doctor. He is absolutely one, if not, the best orthopedic doctor in Lincoln!
Patient Submitted Review

Patient Submitted Review

Nov-2023

I have seen Dr. Lawson and his PA and staff a number of times. He did surgery to straighten my thumb and again to straitened my finger. Those operations have returned my fingers and thumb to original.mobility. I have also received shots in the knee and hip. Today we talked about hip surgery. I am totally confident in Dr. Lawson and his staff.
rater8 Verified Patient

rater8 Verified Patient

Nov-2023

It was a great experience. Dr. Lawson is very professional yet cordial. This doctor happens to have a sense of humor which I enjoyed. The entire experience from check-in to walking out the doors was good I experienced zero hesitations at all.
Patient Submitted Review

Patient Submitted Review

Nov-2023

I needed a second opinion from Dr Lawson for a knee replacement. Dr Dr Lawson gave me straightforward answers to all my questions in a frank, friendly manner. I was very satisfied with my consultation with him.
Patient Submitted Review

Patient Submitted Review

Oct-2023

I am very pleased with Dr. Lawson each of my visits for cortisone injections. Explains the process well. Answers my questions and converses in an easy laid back way. Highly recommend.
Patient Submitted Review

Patient Submitted Review

Oct-2023

Dr. Lawson and his staff are always open to listening and providing solid answers. They have delivered my ortho needs simply and thoroughly and my results have been stellar. Highly recommend!
Patient Submitted Review

Patient Submitted Review

Sep-2023

Dr Lawson is such a good listener. He responds to all of my concerns. He takes his time and makes sure I get my concerns answered. I believe he truly cares about his patients.
Patient Submitted Review

Patient Submitted Review

Aug-2023

My visit was a great experience. Dr. Lawson explained my procedure in easy to understand terms, his manner was very reassuring, and I now understand and feel very good about my upcoming knee surgery. If your knees are telling you they need attention, schedule an appointment with Dr. Lawson-you will be glad you chose him.
Patient Submitted Review

Patient Submitted Review

Aug-2023

I’ve seen Dr Lawson for over 10 years for my knee problem. He is very professional and has always been open to my thoughts and concerns. He is cool and uses humor to make it easier for patients to deal with the discomfort. The surgery was very successful and I’m very pleased with the progress. His nurse Sandy is responsive to my post surgery needs and very prompt in addressing my concerns.
Patient Submitted Review

Patient Submitted Review

Jul-2023

Dr. Lawson is easy to talk with and is quite knowledgeable. He was able to explain my condition in terms that were easily understandable. I recently had my first visit with him. I feel I could trust him to provide further care if needed.
rater8 Verified Patient

rater8 Verified Patient

Jun-2023

He treated me like a person, not a number or an invoice. He was direct, honest, understanding, etc. I would highly recommend, and I don't even have my new hip yet!! :)
Patient Submitted Review

Patient Submitted Review

Jun-2023

My visit was quick and everything went smoothly. Staff was friendly and helpful with everything needed. I’ve only ever seen Dr. Lawson for orthopedic work as I’ve never felt like anyone else could provide better care than he has always offered.
Patient Submitted Review

Patient Submitted Review

Jun-2023

Very professional and knowledgeable, discussed various treatment options and strategies with the good and bad of each one. We settled on a plan and it was quickly implemented.
Patient Submitted Review

Patient Submitted Review

Jun-2023

He is a Professional and caring doctor. He shows you the x-rays or scan and explains it well. He makes a treatment plan with you and I received injections the same day as appointment.
Patient Submitted Review

Patient Submitted Review

May-2023

I have seen Dr Lawson and his PA. for 3 broken ones, all on different occasions. I can't imagine going to another doctor. The 2 times he performed surgery I healed perfectly although I also did my part with PT which he recognized and appreciated. His sense of humor, willingness to answer all my questions and his ability to make you feel he has all the time you need, not to mention his surgical skills make him an excellent doctor in my opinion. His PA is also quite skilled with patients and at what she does so they make a great team!
Patient Submitted Review

Patient Submitted Review

May-2023

I saw Dr. Lawson for my follow-up after knee surgery. Dr. Lawson checked out my knee and its mobility efforts. He was helpful by answering a few questions I had. His nurse is wonderful too. Makes me feel comfortable.
Patient Submitted Review

Patient Submitted Review

May-2023

I just saw Dr Lawson for a six week checkup on my knee replacement. He thoroughly reviewed the X-rays with me. I brought a long list of questions with me and he answered them all without making me feel hurried.
Patient Submitted Review

Patient Submitted Review

Apr-2023

Pulled up my X-rays and explained my options and the possible reasons for my pain. Understood that the pain is interfering with my work and that recovering from a lengthy surgical procedure would not be in my best interest. Gave me a cortisone shot and sent me on my way. Quick and easy and I appreciated that so much. The nurse was also super helpful, had a lighthearted attitude and made me less anxious about the shot. Awesome experience. Thank you!
rater8 Verified Patient

rater8 Verified Patient

Apr-2023

Billboard worthy♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️ Dr Lawson is an EXCELLENT person and EXCELLENT surgeon. Dr Lawson has GREAT staff. Thank you for giving excellent care ALWAYS! Kathy Phillips
Patient Submitted Review

Patient Submitted Review

Apr-2023

Such a positive experience from beginning to end! Dr. Lawson has a great bedside manner. I would very highly recommend this doctor and office! Very efficient, knowledgeable and friendly.
Patient Submitted Review

Patient Submitted Review

Mar-2023

Dr Lawson is always a professional. I appreciate his honest advice and respect his medical opinions. I know this won't be my last visit. There will be more parts to fix ;)
rater8 Verified Patient

rater8 Verified Patient

Jan-2023

Doctor Lawson is the Best. Never been able to get any relief until now. He will be doing my surgery in the near future. He has done my Wifes surgery and a surgery on my son. All with wonderful results. He is the best!!
rater8 Verified Patient

rater8 Verified Patient

Jan-2023

5 STAR Dr. Keith Lawson always takes time to hear my concerns. Discuss options and allows me time to ask questions. Recent visit resolved my current issue. I look forward to returning if & when the need arises.
rater8 Verified Patient

rater8 Verified Patient

Dec-2022

Got the probable problem figured out fast, easy to talk to, answered questions clearly and directly. Wish I didn't need his expertise, but glad it's available!
Patient Submitted Review

Patient Submitted Review

Nov-2022

Very pleased with my first visit with Dr. Lawson. Seemed very knowledgeable and was pleased surgery will be a last resort instead of first option. Glad to have him helping me with my knees.
rater8 Verified Patient

rater8 Verified Patient

Nov-2022

I was just telling my husband how much I like Doctor Lawson. I said he see's people all day long who are hurting and complaining about the pain they are in and he still has a pleasant and upbeat attitude. We were there late in the day and Doctor Lawson was very nice and actually kind of humorous. So refreshing.
Patient Submitted Review

Patient Submitted Review

Oct-2022

Dr. Lawson is amazing at what he does!! Very efficient. He’s always on time with his schedule!! Staff all very nice and on top of it!! I was well taken care of and in and out in 30 minutes!!
rater8 Verified Patient

rater8 Verified Patient

Sep-2022

Dr. Lawson took his time to visit about my concerns & offered up solutions for my current issue. He replaced my hip a few years back & I am completely happy with it.
rater8 Verified Patient

rater8 Verified Patient

Aug-2022

Was very impressed that I was early for my appt and was able to get in early since I drove always to get there. All so felt very comfortable with the Dr and staff
Patient Submitted Review

Patient Submitted Review

Jun-2022

Thank you so much Dr. Keith W. Lawson, I really appreciate you taking care of me The surgery was professionally done on my hand and I’m back to work in no time. Thank you again
rater8 Verified Patient

rater8 Verified Patient

May-2022

I was seen on time and everyone that I delt with at my appt, including Dr Lawson, took the time to make sure I fully understood every option available.
rater8 Verified Patient

rater8 Verified Patient

May-2022

Very personable. Professional answers all questions. His nurse is the same. I recommend his staff to everyone who asks. I travel a hour and half to see him. Larry Miller Marysville, KS
rater8 Verified Patient

rater8 Verified Patient

Apr-2022

Our family would like to take this moment and thank Dr. Lawson and his whole team for an outstanding surgery and the utmost concern and care during the surgery and recovery process. This is our second surgery there for different family members. Both highly successful surgeries and recovery. I would Highly recommend and often refer other people when the topic comes up for those who need help with an injury. Lincoln, Ne. is so blessed have so many awesome Dr.'s at LOC. Make no mistake, it is a hundred miles of bad road when going under the knife, but with Dr. Lawson and his amazing team they directed our family members to the best path for recovery and returning to a high quality of life. What's that worth........
Patient Submitted Review

Patient Submitted Review

Apr-2022

I would recommend dr. Lawson to anyone. He is an excellent surgeon and fortunately for me he has had the opportunity to fix me up in a couple different body parts. He comes highly recommended!
rater8 Verified Patient

rater8 Verified Patient

Apr-2022

Dr. Lawson is a wonderful conscience physician. He always explains thourghly. I would highly recommend him to anyone looking for an orthopedic doctor!!
Patient Submitted Review

Patient Submitted Review

Feb-2022

Dr Lawson is a great doctor/surgeon and a great person! All the people working there are friendly and professional… would recommend this place to anyone! They’re awesome!
Patient Submitted Review

Patient Submitted Review

Feb-2020

Dr Lawson's staff did a great job of fitting me in on a short notice. Dr Lawson did a great job explaining the diagnosis. He took the time to explain it all and I already feel better knowing his diagnosis
Patient Submitted Review

Patient Submitted Review

Jan-2020

Been seeing Dr Lawson for a little over 17 years and cannot say enough great things about his professionalism. Always has time to listen and help with any problem that i come to him with.
Patient Submitted Review

Patient Submitted Review

Dec-2019

Such a relief to get a description and to have a doctor listen to what is going on with my symptoms. good looking also, ha he encouraged me to say that.
Patient Submitted Review

Patient Submitted Review

Nov-2019

Dr. Lawson has taken care of my children for numerous sprains and fractures over the years. Now it was my turn and he continues to provide personal, thorough and complete care. He understands the active young person and the active aging person who wants to keep moving. Our family appreciates he and his staff and their attention to detail and excellence in care. Thank you.
Patient Submitted Review

Patient Submitted Review

May-2019

Dr. Lawson was very open and honest about the shoulder procedure. There was some pain after surgery but things began to feel much better within a couple of weeks. I was told that there would be pain and I appreciated his honesty in that regard. My shoulder is much better post surgery and is improving every day. Really enjoy his personality and frank conversations. All of the staff that I was in contact at LOC were very nice as well.
Patient Submitted Review

Patient Submitted Review

Nov-2017

Dr. Lawson performed an arthroscopy on my right knee recently and did an outstanding job. I was barely able to get around and am now walking with ease. He was very informative and really took the time to answer any questions or concerns my husband and I had. I would strongly recommend him to anyone needing an orthopedic doctor.
Patient Submitted Review

Patient Submitted Review

Feb-2017

Dr. Lawson was informative, helpful, and even funny. He performed arthroscopic ACL reconstruction surgery using a hamstring graft in my left knee. I do have some numbness from the surgery in a small area of the front face of my shin, but I was warned that this could result. It does not bother me. His humor helped relieve some of the stress I was feeling. If I lived closer to Lincoln, I definitely would try and return to Dr. Lawson to reconstruct the ACL in my right knee. I still might.
Patient Submitted Review

Patient Submitted Review

Jun-2016

Dr Lawson replaced my left shoulder on dec 18, 2014. He did an excellent job and I am thrilled with the results. I have much more range of motion and ability to use the arm than I exoected to. Of course the excellent physical therapy with Exstrom Physical Therapy after the surgery certainly played a big part in getting me back in shape. I am very grateful to Dr Lawson and his excellent staff.
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