For more than five decades, St. Cloud Surgical Center has been growing, adapting, and evolving alongside the patients and community it serves. What began as a bold idea in 1972 has become one of the nation’s most respected outpatient surgical centers, built not only on advanced care but on thoughtful design, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to patient experience.
For the past five years, St. Cloud Surgical Center has been writing its next chapter, and we’re excited to share that the remodel journey we have embarked on is officially closed. Read on to learn more.
Our remodel layout highlighting the three phases completed between 2020 and 2025.
A Vision Ahead of Its Time
St. Cloud Surgical Center was founded in 1972 by Dr. Joseph Belshe, whose vision reshaped what surgical care could look like in Central Minnesota. The first procedures were performed in an office setting at the Physicians & Surgeons Building on West St. Germain. Just months later, in August of 1972, St. Cloud Surgical Center relocated to 1401 West St. Germain, performing its first case there on August 10th.
Dr. Joseph Belshe at St. Cloud Surgical Centers’ 50th Anniversary in 2022. Belshe, who lived in Florida with his wife at the time, passed away in 2023 at the age of 102.
From the beginning, we have always been different.
St. Cloud Surgical Center became the first freestanding outpatient surgery center in Minnesota and the second in the nation, setting a new standard for surgical efficiency, safety, and patient-centered care.
As demand grew, so did the facility. Between 1972 and 1993, the original West St. Germain location expanded from one operating room to six, each addition thoughtfully designed by employees in collaboration with architects who understood the unique needs of surgical care.
Growing with the Community
In May of 1993, St. Cloud Surgical Center moved to its current home on Northway Drive, opening a new 25,266 square-foot facility with nine operating rooms. This move marked a major milestone and allowed the center to expand services while continuing to prioritize outpatient excellence.
Growth continued in 2002 with a significant expansion that increased the total footprint to more than 37,000 square feet. This phase included the addition of patient support spaces and two extra operating rooms, bringing the total to eleven. The business office was relocated to the lower level to create more room for patient admissions. Yet another example of how patient flow and comfort have always guided design decisions.
Modernizing for the Future: A Multi-Year Remodel
Over the years, one thing has remained clear: healthcare doesn’t stand still, and neither does St. Cloud Surgical Center.
Beginning in 2020, our center launched a series of intentional upgrades to ensure the facility could support advanced procedures, new technology, and a growing surgical volume. That year, the Sterile Processing Department (SPD) was relocated and expanded, growing from 1,100 to 4,000 square feet. This move allowed for the creation of larger operating rooms, a new breakroom, conference space, purchasing areas, and upgraded mechanical rooms. This allowed us to improve both efficiency and staff support.
The most recent remodel, completed in phases between June 2024 and August 2025, focused on enhancing patient experience, workflow, and safety across 9,300 square feet of the Center.
Key updates included:
A refreshed open-concept front lobby, improving flow and visibility while incorporating additional security features
Updates to the admitting nurses’ workstation, ensuring efficiency and privacy
Expansion of Phase II Recovery, increasing patient rooms, and creating larger, more comfortable spaces
Relocation of the Health History Nurse’s office to better support patient intake
Renovations in the lower level, including a new IT space, a lactation room, updated locker rooms, and additional storage
Throughout every phase, care continued uninterrupted, a testament to the careful planning and teamwork of our entire staff.
The start of the long hall! First dig in 2020 to start the five-year remodel project.
Designed for Patients, Built for Care Teams
Every space inside St. Cloud Surgical Center serves a purpose, and each remodel phase was designed with both patients and staff in mind.
From Pre-Op and Admitting, where patients meet with nurses and anesthesia providers, to Phase I and Phase II Recovery, where comfort, monitoring, and education are priorities, SCSC continues to refine how care is delivered. The Center supports:
Advanced recovery spaces with trained ACLS- and PALS-certified nurses
A Recovery Care Unit (RCU) capable of overnight stays, making SCSC the first freestanding ASC in Minnesota to offer this level of care
Operating rooms designed to accommodate advanced robotics, total joint replacements, and specialty procedures
Behind the scenes, expanded sterile processing, loading dock improvements, and upgraded support departments ensure safety and efficiency at every step.
Innovation That Sets the Standard
Throughout its history, St. Cloud Surgical Center has been a leader in bringing advanced procedures to the outpatient setting, often as a first in the region or nation. From early laparoscopic surgeries and LASIK to robotic joint replacements and retinal surgery, innovation has always been part of the culture.
Today, our center supports a wide range of specialties, including orthopedics, spine, ENT, ophthalmology, endoscopy, pain management, and more. In 2024 alone, the Center completed 9,500 surgeries, including more than 1,000 joint replacements—a dramatic increase from just 149 joint replacements in 2015.
This growth is supported by advanced technology, including robotic-assisted systems like MAKO and VELYS™, UV disinfecting lights throughout the facility, and carefully designed OR layouts that support precision and safety.
A Culture That Endures
While the building has evolved over the years, the heart of St. Cloud Surgical Center has remained constant. Our culture, built on teamwork, service excellence, integrity, and compassion, is reflected in the people who show up every day to care for patients. Of our 162 employees, 41 have been part of SCSC for more than 20 years, a true testament to the environment we’ve worked hard to create and protect.
That same commitment to excellence extends to our partnership with Surgical Care Affiliates (SCA), which began in 2008. Together, we share a mission to care for patients, serve physicians, and improve healthcare in America, all while continuing to exceed the expectations of the communities we serve.
This remodel is a direct reflection of those values. It’s not simply about refreshed spaces or modern design; it’s about supporting our people, advancing patient care, and preparing St. Cloud Surgical Center for the next generation of surgical excellence.
With thoughtful planning, advanced technology, and a team dedicated to continuous improvement, St. Cloud Surgical Center is ready to serve Central Minnesota for decades to come.
In September of 2025, we invited our team, both new and old, to an open house at the center. After a 5-year remodeling journey, the results are something to be proud of and a true reflection of Dr. Belshe’s lasting legacy. We are so grateful for the wonderful Central Minnesota community and our staff, who were patient with us during this process. We hope to see St. Cloud Surgical Center thriving for many years to come.
What if simply getting out of bed didn’t hurt? For many people living with arthritis, old injuries, or daily joint pain, that small moment feels out of reach. Joint replacement surgery changes that.
At St. Cloud Surgical Center, we’ve been a leading expert in Central Minnesota for more than 50 years, offering partial and total knee and hip replacements that restore mobility and improve quality of life. Over the decades, we’ve had the privilege of helping thousands of patients regain comfort, confidence, and independence, all thanks to our surgical expertise and the remarkable advancements in joint replacement technology.In this blog, we’re taking a closer look at how joint replacement has evolved, why the procedure is so effective today, and what patients can realistically expect from modern surgery. Whether you’re exploring joint replacement for yourself or supporting someone who is, our goal is to provide clear, hopeful, and practical insight.
Why Joint Replacement Today Is Truly Life-Changing
Living with joint pain can make the simplest tasks feel impossible. Everyday movements like standing up from a chair, climbing the stairs, and even sleeping, take effort. For many individuals, every step is a reminder of the constant pain they are living with.
But it doesn’t have to be that way.
After speaking with our patients, we know how joint replacement can change lives. Mornings feel lighter. Walking feels easier. “Normal life” starts to feel possible again.
Common benefits include:
Significant pain relief — often from constant pain to mild or occasional discomfort
Improved mobility — making walking, chores, and hobbies more manageable
Better sleep — fewer nighttime disruptions caused by aching joints
Joint replacement doesn’t create perfect, indestructible joints. Some stiffness or weather sensitivity may still occur. But the goal isn’t superhuman performance, it’s freedom from daily pain, and most patients achieve exactly that.
Who Typically Needs Joint Replacement?
Joint damage has several causes, but most qualified candidates at St. Cloud Surgical Center fall into these groups:
Osteoarthritis — age-related cartilage wear and tear
Rheumatoid arthritis — an inflammatory autoimmune condition
Previous injuries — past fractures or ligament tears that led to early joint breakdown
Overuse — years of repetitive strain from work or athletics
While joint replacement is most common in older adults, younger or active individuals may need surgery sooner, depending on their level of damage and symptoms.
Before surgery is considered, specialists typically try conservative options like physical therapy, weight management, medications, bracing, and injections. When those no longer provide relief, joint replacement becomes a very reasonable next step.
If surgery is the logical next step, patients can expect their new joint to last somewhere between 20–30 years. Longevity depends on patient age, activity level, and overall health, but most patients enjoy decades of relief post-surgery.
And thanks to modern technology, recovery timelines have improved dramatically:
Standing and walking the same day is common.
Same-day discharge for many hip and knee replacements when done at an ambulatory surgery center like ours.
Return to everyday tasks within a few weeks under the proper guidance of your care team.
Steady functional improvement over 3–6 months with proper physical therapy.
A Look Back: How Joint Replacement Evolved
Joint replacement surgery has come a long way, and St. Cloud Surgical Center has been here through it all. As one of the nation’s first freestanding surgical centers, we’ve witnessed decades of innovation firsthand, from early experimental materials to today’s advanced, long-lasting implants. Each breakthrough has paved the way for safer procedures, faster recovery, and better outcomes for our patients. Understanding where joint replacement began helps highlight just how far the field has come and why modern surgery is more effective than ever.
Early Attempts (Pre-1950s)
Surgeons once experimented with materials like ivory, glass, and interpositional spacers. While creative, these early solutions often failed due to poor fit, infection, and rapid wear. Still, these attempts laid the groundwork for future breakthroughs.
The 1960s: A Revolution Begins
Everything changed with the Charnley low-friction hip, which was made up of a metal ball, a durable plastic socket, and bone cement to secure the parts. Improved operating room sterility and antibiotics dramatically lowered infection rates, turning hip replacement into a predictable, successful procedure.
1970s–1990s: Innovation Moves to the Knee
Knee replacement quickly followed. Surgeons refined implant shape, alignment techniques, and soft-tissue balancing, creating more reliable, natural-feeling knee function. Shoulder, elbow, and ankle replacements also advanced in this period.
Joint Replacement Today: Safer, Faster, and More Precise Than Ever
As joint replacement technology has evolved, the materials and methods behind today’s implants have become stronger, smoother, and far more precise. Modern joints are designed to reduce friction and resist wear for decades, but the real leap forward comes from the tools surgeons use to place them.
At St. Cloud Surgical Center, advanced robotic systems like MAKO and VELYS™ help our surgeons position implants with remarkable accuracy, often down to fractions of a millimeter. This combination of durable materials and highly precise placement leads to more natural movement, improved comfort, and a lower likelihood of needing revision surgery in the future.These advancements, paired with a rock-solid care plan, make surgery safer and recovery smoother. At St. Cloud Surgical Center, our care plans are built around real-life needs, focusing on early mobility, personalized physical therapy, and fast, comfortable transitions back home. Many patients stand and take a few steps the very same day, return to light activity within the first couple of weeks, and gradually rebuild strength over the next several months. At SCSC, every recovery plan is supported by a coordinated team dedicated to helping patients regain confidence and function as quickly and safely as possible.
During this season, as we reflect on what we’re grateful for, modern joint replacement deserves a spot near the top of the list. Thanks to decades of innovation and our dedicated teams at St. Cloud Surgical Center and St. Cloud Orthopedics, patients today enjoy safer procedures, faster recoveries, and meaningful long-term relief.
We’re proud to be part of a community where advanced surgical care meets compassionate, patient-centered support. Whether it’s the simple comfort of standing without pain or the joy of returning to favorite activities, joint replacement helps restore the everyday moments that matter most.
For more information on joint replacement surgery at St. Cloud Surgical Center, contact us. You have the power of choice, and our center is here to help you every step of the way.
Your feet carry you through every step of the day, yet they rarely get attention until they hurt. Whether it be standing, walking, lifting, or running, all that power starts at the ground. Strong, flexible feet support your posture, help your balance, and keep you moving with less strain. At St. Cloud Surgical Center, we see firsthand how healthy feet set the foundation for overall well-being.
If you deal with sore heels, tight calves, flat feet, or plantar fasciitis, you’re not alone. The good news? Small daily habits can make a big difference. This guide explains why happy feet matter and offers expert-backed tips to prevent pain and improve movement.
Why Happy Feet Power Your Posture, Balance, and Mobility
Think of your body as a chain: feet, ankles, knees, hips, and spine. If one link is off, the whole chain feels it. When arches collapse or ankles move poorly, knees can fall inward, hips twist, and the lower back takes on extra strain. And, over time, these small foot faults add up. If something feels off, your chain is likely not functioning properly and needs some realignment. This could be minor, or it could require more in-depth intervention.
Early warning signs to watch for:
Morning heel pain or stiffness
Sore arches after standing or walking
Numb toes, hot spots, or calluses
Uneven shoe wear
Catching these signs early can prevent bigger problems from occurring.
Daily Habits for Happy Feet
Pick shoes that fit right: It’s important to wear shoes that fit right. Improper shoes can lead to foot problems like bunions, hammertoes, blisters, calluses, and ingrown toenails, as well as pain in other parts of the body, such as the back, hips, and knees.
When it comes to shoes, practice these habits:
Thumb-width space in the toe box, secure heel, bend at the toes, not the arch.
Replace running shoes every 300–500 miles.
Try a shoe with a wider toe box to let toes spread naturally.
Keep high heels or flimsy flip-flops for short-term use.
Work with a specialist if needed.
5-minute foot strength routine: If you ever feel weak in your feet, try some at-home stretches!
Towel scrunches – pull your toes back with a towel, slow and controlled.
Toe yoga – lift the big toe while keeping other toes down; switch.
Calf raises – rise up slowly, pause, lower slowly.
Short foot hold – draw the ball of your foot toward your heel gently.
Do 2 sets of 8–12 reps per exercise, focusing on smooth motion and no pain.
Stretches for tight calves and plantar fascia: Wall calf stretches (straight knee for upper calf, bent for deeper calf) 20–30 seconds, 2–3 times per side. Pull toes back for a gentle plantar fascia stretch; roll arch over a small ball or frozen bottle for 1–2 minutes.
The real key is a smarter recovery: Massage tight spots, ice soreness briefly, elevate feet after standing or travel, rotate shoes, wear moisture-wicking socks. Pain? Pause, rest, and return gradually.
Solving Common Foot Problems
Flat feet or high arches: Both can work well if strong and pain-free. If feet tire during long days, try cushioned or supportive insoles. Custom orthotics help some, but many benefit from simple options paired with strength exercises.
Heel pain or plantar fasciitis: Ease up on impact, stretch calves and arches twice daily, roll arches, wear supportive shoes. Night socks or straps gently stretch while sleeping. Gradually return to higher-impact activity.
When to see a podiatrist or physical therapist: Sharp or worsening pain, swelling, numbness, color changes, pain lasting more than two weeks, or post-fall issues deserve professional evaluation. Early visits help athletes, and long-standing standards prevent bigger problems.
Foot care for kids, teens, and active adults:
Kids: Encourage varied play in safe shoes that fit.
Active adults: Increase training gradually, track miles, replace worn shoes, and add rest days.
Common Foot Issues We Treat at St. Cloud Surgical Center
Bunionectomy: Surgical correction of bunions to relieve pain and restore proper alignment.
Hammertoe Correction: Treatments to straighten bent toes caused by tendon imbalance.
Toe Reconstruction: Procedures to repair toe deformities or injuries, improving both function and appearance.
Diabetic Neuropathy and Peripheral Nerve Surgery: Specialized care to manage complications from diabetes or nerve damage, protecting foot health and mobility.
Bunions: A bony bump at the base of the big toe that can be corrected for long-lasting results.
Start Simple, Stay Consistent
Strong, well-cared-for feet support posture, balance, and daily comfort. Pick one habit today to try. Be it the 5-minute routine, stretching your calves, or choosing shoes that truly fit, a simple change can make a big difference, and your body will thank you with smoother steps and less strain. Start simple, stay consistent, and keep your foundation happy.
If you are experiencing pain in your foot or ankle, don’t hesitate to call the team of experts at St. Cloud Surgical Center. Together, we can come up with a plan that makes your feet happy again!
This month, we’ve had a lot to celebrate, including healthy aging! As a trusted healthcare provider in our community, we believe it’s important to spark conversations about what it means to age well and how to stay connected to your health as the years go by.
The truth is, aging looks different for everyone. Genetics, lifestyle, and personal circumstances all play a role. But no matter where you’re starting from, taking care of your health is essential.
So, what does it really mean to “age healthfully”? At its core, healthy aging is about maintaining and improving your physical, mental, and social well-being as you grow older. And here’s the best part: it’s never too late to start.
Small, intentional steps today can lead to a better quality of life tomorrow. Building healthy habits early (and sticking with them) can make all the difference in how you feel, function, and enjoy life for years to come.
Five Pillars of Healthy Aging
Healthy aging doesn’t happen overnight or by accident. It takes intentionality and daily habits that support both mind and body over time. By focusing on a few key pillars, you can give yourself the best chance of staying healthy, active, and independent in the years ahead.
1. Stay Active
Movement matters. Staying active keeps your muscles, bones, and heart strong. The CDC recommends aiming for 150 minutes of moderate activity each week, but even short bursts of exercise add up. Go for a walk, pull weeds in the garden, ride your bike, or push the lawn mower. Every bit of movement makes a difference.
2. Prioritize Nutrition
Food is fuel, especially as we age. While our bodies may need fewer calories, they often require more of certain nutrients like calcium, vitamin D, protein, and fiber. Choose nutrient-dense foods to keep your energy steady and your body strong.
A balanced plate might include:
Vegetables & Fruits: Fill half your plate with colorful options like leafy greens, orange veggies, berries, or citrus for vitamins and antioxidants.
Whole Grains: Oatmeal, brown rice, whole-wheat bread, or quinoa provide fiber for digestion and heart health.
Protein: Lean meats, fish, beans, lentils, eggs, and nuts help maintain muscle strength. (Aim for seafood twice a week for omega-3s.)
Dairy or Fortified Alternatives: Yogurt, milk, or fortified plant-based options deliver calcium and vitamin D for bone health.
Healthy Fats: Olive oil, avocado, and nuts support brain and heart health while adding flavor.
The bottom line: build meals around variety and color. The more balance on your plate, the better your body will thrive.
3. Keep Your Mind Sharp
A strong mind is just as important as a strong body. Challenge your brain with activities that stretch memory, focus, and creativity. You could read a book, try a new hobby, or play games like trivia, sudoku, or crosswords. Mental exercise is health care, too.
4. Build Connections
Humans are wired for connection, and positive relationships are vital for mental health. Friends, family, and community can provide support, prevent loneliness, and improve overall well-being. Staying connected is just as important as staying active.
5. Get Preventive Care
Don’t wait for symptoms to appear. Stay ahead with preventive care. Regular checkups help your provider track changes, manage chronic conditions, and catch issues early, when they’re easier to treat. From blood pressure checks to cancer screenings, preventive care can add years of health to your life and give you back your peace of mind.
When Surgery Supports Healthy Aging
While healthy habits play a big role in aging well, sometimes lifestyle alone isn’t enough. If joint pain, vision changes, or other health challenges are keeping you from doing the things you love, medical intervention can make all the difference.
At St. Cloud Surgical Center, our outpatient procedures are performed by experienced specialists and designed to deliver comfortable, high-quality care that supports your long-term health and independence.
Some of the most common procedures that support healthy aging include:
Joint Replacement: Total hip and knee replacements reduce pain and improve mobility, helping you stay active.
Cataract and Eye Surgeries: Restore clear vision for driving, reading, hobbies, and daily activities.
ENT Procedures: Improve breathing, sleep, and overall comfort.
Many of these procedures are minimally invasive and can be truly life-changing. Don’t let pain or discomfort hold you back from living fully. With more than 50 years of trusted care in Central Minnesota, the physicians, nurses, and technicians at St. Cloud Surgical Center are here to provide a supportive, well-informed experience for every patient and their families.
Healthy Mind. Healthy Body.
Taking care of your mental health is a key part of healthy aging.
Prioritizing your emotional well-being will give you even more reason to live a long, vibrant life. Stress, anxiety, doubts, and fears are all natural parts of being human, but they don’t have to hold you back. With the right tools, resources, and support, you can navigate these challenges and feel more grounded.
Here are a few simple ways to support your emotional well-being:
Relax and de-stress: Try yoga, meditation, or another calming activity
Stay connected: Join a book club, share a meal with a friend, or take the grandkids to a ballgame
Get creative: Start that new painting or build a birdhouse for the first time
Enjoy the outdoors: Take a walk through the neighborhood or read on the porch
Your mind and body work together to keep you strong and resilient. When you nurture both, you set yourself up for the best possible health as you age.
Your Healthy Journey Starts Now
This September, celebrate Healthy Aging Month by committing to a few simple habits that can make a lasting difference. Whether you’re 22 or 82, it’s never too early (or too late) to invest in yourself. From scheduling preventive checkups and adding movement to your day, to exploring procedures that restore independence, St. Cloud Surgical Center is here to support your journey toward a healthier, happier life.
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