What An Orthopedic Knee Doctor Can Do

Seeing an orthopedic knee doctor can be very beneficial if you are suffering from knee pain or have recently been in an accident that caused a knee injury. An orthopedic knee doctor specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions related to the lower body’s bones, muscles, ligaments, and tendons. Your orthopedic knee doctor will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. This may include physical therapy, medications, or surgery.

Your orthopedic knee doctor will be able to evaluate your condition and determine the best course of action for relief from pain and improved mobility. They can also explain any risks associated with the treatments they are recommending so that you can make an informed decision.

Diagnosis can be made through a combination of physical examination, imaging tests (such as X-rays and MRI scans), laboratory tests, and other diagnostic methods.

There are different causes of knee injuries, including:

  • Trauma happens when the knee sustains injuries due to a car accident, falls, or contact sports.
  • Overuse: This can occur when the knee is overworked through repetitive motions such as running or playing basketball.
  • Disease: Arthritis, gout, and joint infections can cause knee pain.
  • Runner’s knee: This is a common condition caused by repetitive running motion.
  • Degenerative conditions are when cartilage and bone start to break down due to age or normal wear and tear.

Your orthopedic knee doctor can help you manage the pain and discomfort associated with your condition by recommending treatments such as:

Physical therapy

Did you know that physical therapy is highly effective in relieving knee pain and improving range of motion? Your orthopedic knee doctor can refer you to a physical therapist who will create an individualized program that includes stretching, strengthening exercises, and other forms of movement.

Medication

Your doctor might prescribe nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and pain. You need to take medicine as prescribed, as even over-the-counter medications can have side effects.

Steroid injections

These injections are used to reduce inflammation and pain in the knee joint. The steroids can be injected directly into the joint or given through an IV.

Surgery

If non-surgical treatments are ineffective, surgery may be recommended to repair the knee or replace it with an artificial joint. Your orthopedic knee doctor will discuss the risks and benefits of each type of surgery so that you can make an informed decision. Some of the types of surgeries include:

  • Arthroscopy: This minimally invasive procedure repairs or removes damaged tissue by inserting a tiny camera and instruments into the knee joint.
  • Osteotomy: In this procedure, bone is cut to realign the joint and relieve pressure on the injured area.
  • Knee replacement: This surgery involves replacing all or part of the knee with an artificial joint.
  • Ligament repair: This is done to reattach torn ligaments or tendons.

An orthopedic knee doctor can provide the best care and treatment for your condition. They can help you get back to a pain-free life, so don’t hesitate to seek advice from your orthopedist at Integrity Orthopedics.