about lbji


The origins of Lakeshore Bone & Joint Institute begin more than 50 years ago when Dr. Albin Jahns opened a practice in Gary, Indiana. Drs. Olson and Alvarez later joined him; the three soon moved to larger space in Merrillville.
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physician profiles


Whether treating a broken bone, sports injuries or diagnosing the cause of bone pain, experience, innovation and excellence describe our doctors, specialists and staff well.
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patient resources :: success stories :: Martin and Harriet S.


Martin and Harriet S., Valparaiso

With more than a half-dozen procedures between the two (Harriet’s records list surgery on both rotator cuffs and treatment for a broken foot, while Martin’s shows several foot operations, epidural treatments for back pain, finger surgery, and total knee replacement), this retired Valparaiso couple is well known to LBJI doctors and staff.

“We’ve been patients for more than 20 years and have had excellent care, most recently with Dr. (Bruce) Thoma,” Martin explained. “I’m diabetic and I truly believe that if it wasn’t for him, I wouldn’t have my feet today. He’s performed at least three surgeries and has had to take a couple of toes. I consider him to be a friend as well as my surgeon.”

Martin credits Dr. Aaron Anderson for recent surgery on a finger that had become severely infected as a result of his diabetes. “He did a wonderful job, I can barely see the scar,” he noted.

The couple wonders why anyone in Northwest Indiana would travel to Chicago when LBJI is available. “I like that every doctor has their own nurse,” Harriet said. “For example, Meg works for Dr. Thoma. When we have a question for him, we call her and get an answer quickly. Lakeshore Bone and Joint is a well-run organization; we wouldn’t go anywhere else.”


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lakeshore bone & joint institute

Main office: 601 gateway blvd.   •   Chesterton, Indiana 46304   •   phone  219.921.1444