Conditions We Commonly Treat
ACL Tears
Overview:
An anterior cruciate ligament tear, better known as an ACL tear, refers to an injury to one of the four major ligaments in the knee. This ligament is crucial for knee stability and helps control rotational movements of the knee. ACL tears are quite common, especially in sports that involve sudden stops, changes in direction, jumping, and landing. They often occur when an individual pivots or lands awkwardly, or sometimes from a direct blow to the knee.
Symptoms:
- Hearing or feeling a pop in the knee
- Severe pain
- Rapid swelling
- Difficulty bending or straightening knee fully
- A feeling that knee is unstable, loose, or that it might buckle or "give out”
- Tenderness around joint line
Treatments & Procedures:
- Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) to reduce swelling and discomfort
- Physical therapy to regain full knee motion, strengthen surrounding muscles, improve stability, and enhance balance
- Using a brace for support and avoiding activities that stress the knee
- ACL reconstruction surgery
Elbow Instability
Overview:
Elbow instability occurs when the elbow joint becomes loose or prone to slipping out of place, often due to ligament injuries or trauma. It can result in a feeling of the elbow “giving out,” especially during pushing or lifting movements.
Symptoms may include:
- Popping or clicking in elbow
- Pain during activities like pushing or lifting
- Feeling that elbow may dislocate or give way
- Swelling and tenderness
- Decreased strength and range of motion
Treatment/procedure options:
- Activity modifications to reduce strain on elbow
- Bracing to provide external support
- Physical therapy to strengthen surrounding muscles
- Anti-inflammatory medications for pain and swelling
- Ligament reconstruction surgery for severe or recurrent instability
Femoracetabular Impingement (FAI)
Femoracetabular Impingement (FAI)
Overview:
Femoracetabular impingement, or FAI, occurs when abnormal contact between the femoral head and the acetabulum causes joint damage. It is classified as cam, pincer, or mixed types. This condition can lead to hip pain, limited motion, and early arthritis, commonly affecting young and active individuals.
Symptoms:
- Deep groin pain aggravated by activity
- Stiffness and limited hip range of motion
- Clicking or locking sensations in the hip
- Pain during prolonged sitting or hip flexion
Treatments & Procedures:
- Activity modification and NSAIDs
- Physical therapy to improve hip mobility and strength
- Corticosteroid injections for inflammation relief
- Arthroscopic surgery to correct deformities and repair labral tears
- Hip replacement in severe arthritis cases
LCL Injuries
Overview:
An LCL injury refers to damage to the lateral collateral ligament, located on the outer side of the knee. This ligament prevents the knee from bending outward. It also helps keep the shin bone aligned with the thigh bone on the outer side of the joint. LCL injuries typically occur from a direct blow to the inside of the knee or when the knee is forced into a bowed-leg position. This can happen during sports activities, falls, or other traumatic events. Unlike the MCL, the LCL has a poorer blood supply, which can delay healing.
Symptoms:
- Outer knee pain that worsens with movement or when putting weight on leg
- Swelling on outer side of knee
- Tenderness
Instability, particularly during pivots or when bearing weight
- Stiffness
Treatments & Procedures:
- Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) right after injury
- Medication
- Brace to protect knee and limit movement
- Exercises to get knee moving again and strengthen surrounding muscles
- Avoiding activities that stress LCL while it heals
- Surgical repair or reconstruction, for severe or complex injuries
Meniscal Tears
Overview:
A meniscal tear involves damage to one of the two cartilage pads (menisci) that cushion and stabilize the knee joint. It often occurs during sports that involve twisting, pivoting, or sudden stops, especially when the foot is planted and the knee rotates. These injuries are common in younger athletes but can also happen in older adults whose menisci may weaken with age and tear from simple motions like squatting.
Symptoms:
- Sudden pain during injury, often on one side of knee
- Swelling that may develop over several hours
- A popping sensation at time of injury
- Stiffness and reduced range of motion
- Catching, locking, or clicking in knee
- Pain worsens with twisting or squatting
- Feeling of knee “giving way” in some cases
Treatments & Procedures:
- Rest, ice, Compression, Elevation (RICE)
- Activity modification
- Anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs)
- Physical therapy to improve strength and flexibility
- Corticosteroid injections (in some cases)
- Ligament repair and reconstruction
- Meniscus repair
- Meniscus transplantation
PCL Tears
Overview:
A posterior cruciate ligament, better known as PCL, tear is an injury to the posterior cruciate ligament, a key ligament at the back of the knee. Its main job is to stop your shin bone from sliding too far backward relative to your thigh bone, and it also helps with rotational stability. These tears are less common than ACL tears and usually happen from a direct impact to the front of a bent knee or falling directly onto a bent knee.
Symptoms:
- Pain in the back of the knee, which might worsen with activity or when kneeling
- Swelling within a few hours of the injury
- A feeling of the knee "giving way" or feeling loose, particularly when trying to stop
- suddenly or go downstairs
- Difficulty walking
- Limited range of motion
Treatments & Procedures:
- Bracing & Activity Modification: A brace may be used for support, and activities that stress the PCL (like deep squats or kneeling) are avoided during healing.
- Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) to reduce swelling and discomfort
- Physical therapy to regain full knee motion, strengthen surrounding muscles, and improve overall balance and stability
- Using a brace for support and avoiding activities that stress the knee
- PCL reconstruction surgery
- Surgery, for severe tears or when multiple ligaments are injured, if nonsurgical methods fail
- Post-surgical rehabilitation
Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction (PTTD)
Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction (PTTD)
Overview:
Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction (PTTD) is a condition that occurs when the posterior tibial tendon, which helps support the arch of your foot, becomes inflamed, overstretched, or torn. This tendon runs along the inside of the ankle and plays a key role in maintaining proper foot alignment and stability during walking.
Symptoms:
- Pain, swelling, and/or tenderness along inside of ankle and foot, especially where tendon runs
- Flattening of arch or noticeable collapse of foot’s inner curve
- A rolling outward of ankle (overpronation) when standing or walking
- Difficulty walking or standing on tiptoes
- Weakness or instability in affected foot and ankle
- Pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest
- Increased foot fatigue during prolonged standing or walking
Nonsurgical Treatments & Procedures:
- Avoiding activities that worsen pain or strain tendon
- Using a walking boot or brace to reduce stress and allow healing
- Wearing custom shoe inserts to support arch and improve foot alignment
- Wearing shoes with good arch support and stability
- Doing exercises to strengthen posterior tibial tendon and surrounding muscles
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce pain and inflammation.
- Maintaining a healthy weight to reduce strain on tendon
Surgical Treatments & Procedures:
- Tendon repair or reconstruction to fix or replace damaged tendon
- Bone realignment procedures to improve foot structure and function
- Fusion of joints to stabilize foot
- Soft tissue procedures to release tight tissues or transfer tendons to restore function
Rotator Cuff Tears
Overview:
A rotator cuff tear occurs when one or more of the tendons that stabilize and move the shoulder become torn, either partially or completely. It can result from sudden injury or repetitive overhead motion over time. Rotator cuff tears are common in athletes and older adults, and can lead to pain, weakness, and reduced arm mobility.
Symptoms:
- Pain at rest or when lifting the arm
- Weakness when lifting or rotating the arm
- Crackling or popping sensation with shoulder movement
- Difficulty sleeping on the affected side
- Limited range of motion
Treatments & Procedures:
- Rest and activity modification to avoid further strain
- Physical therapy to strengthen shoulder muscles and improve mobility
- Anti-inflammatory medications for pain and swelling
- Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation in joint
- Surgical repair for full or large tears
- Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy in select cases
Shoulder Dislocations
Overview:
A shoulder dislocation occurs when the upper arm bone is forced out of the shoulder socket. This injury is often caused by trauma or a sudden impact during sports or falls. Dislocations can damage surrounding muscles, ligaments, and nerves, and may lead to recurrent instability if not properly treated.
Symptoms:
- Severe shoulder pain
- Visible deformity or “out of place” appearance
- Swelling and bruising
- Inability to move the arm
- Numbness or weakness in arm or hand
Treatment/procedures :
- Putting shoulder back in place
- Immobilization with a sling for several weeks
- Physical therapy to restore strength and motion
- Anti-inflammatory medications for pain and swelling
- Surgery in cases of recurrent dislocations or severe tissue damage
Shoulder Instability
Overview:
Shoulder instability occurs when the shoulder joint is loose and slides partially or fully out of place repeatedly. It often follows dislocations or injuries that stretch or tear the ligaments supporting the joint. Instability can cause pain, weakness, and limited function.
Symptoms:
- Sensation of the shoulder “slipping” or “popping out”
- Recurrent dislocations or partial dislocations
- Shoulder pain and weakness
- Feeling of looseness or instability in shoulder
- Difficulty performing overhead activities
Treatments & Procedures:
- Physical therapy focusing on strengthening shoulder stabilizers
- Activity modification to avoid high-risk movements
- Use of shoulder braces or supports during activities
- Anti-inflammatory medications for pain relief
- Surgery to tighten or repair ligaments in severe or recurrent cases
Shoulder Labral Tears
Overview:
A shoulder labral tear involves damage to the cartilage rim that helps stabilize the shoulder socket. Tears can result from trauma, repetitive overhead motions, or gradual wear and tear, leading to pain, catching, or instability.
Symptoms:
- Deep shoulder pain, especially with overhead activities
- Catching, locking, or popping sensations
- Weakness or instability in shoulder
- Reduced range of motion
- Discomfort when lying on affected shoulder
Treatments & Procedures:
- Rest and activity modification
- Physical therapy to strengthen surrounding muscles
- Anti-inflammatory medications for pain management
- Corticosteroid injections for inflammation
- Surgery to repair or remove damaged tissue
Additional Services & Procedures
We've highlighted some of the most common services—please explore the conditions list for treatments by condition.
Arthroscopy
Overview:
Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat problems inside joints, such as the ones in the hip, knee, and shoulder joints. An orthopedic surgeon uses a small camera (called an arthroscope) and tiny instruments inserted through small incisions to view, repair, or remove damaged tissue in the joints.
Conditions Treated:
- Meniscus tears (knee)
- Rotator cuff tears (shoulder)
- Labral tears (shoulder or hip)
- ACL tears (knee)
- Shoulder impingement
- Cartilage damage (any joint)
- Joint instability (shoulder, ankle, knee)
- Loose bodies (any joint)
- Synovitis (any joint)
- Osteochondral lesions (ankle, knee)
- Frozen shoulder
- Tennis elbow
- Ankle impingement
- Hip impingement
- Elbow stiffness or contractures
Before the Procedure:
- Pre-op evaluation: Includes a physical exam, imaging (MRI or X-rays), and a review of medications.
- Instructions: You may be asked to stop eating or drinking 6–12 hours before surgery.
- Medications: Some medications may need to be paused (e.g., blood thinners).
- Anesthesia: Most arthroscopies are done under general or regional anesthesia.
After the Procedure:
- Recovery room: You’ll be monitored briefly before going home (most are outpatient).
- Pain & swelling: Ice and medication help manage this.
- Wound care: You’ll have small incisions covered with bandages. Keep them clean and dry.
- Activity restrictions: You may need crutches, a sling, or a brace.
- Physical therapy: Often begins within days to restore strength and mobility.
- Follow-up: You’ll see your surgeon to monitor healing and remove stitches if needed.
Computer-Navigated Shoulder Replacement
Computer-Navigated Shoulder Replacement
Overview:
Computer-navigated shoulder replacement is an advanced surgical technique that uses real-time imaging and computer guidance to enhance the precision of implant placement during shoulder joint replacement. This technology allows surgeons to plan and execute the procedure with greater accuracy, improving joint alignment and function.
Conditions Treated:
- Shoulder osteoarthritis
- Post-traumatic arthritis
- Proximal humerus fracture
Before the Procedure:
Before surgery, you’ll have a thorough medical evaluation that includes a review of your health history, a physical exam, and imaging, such as X-rays or CT scans. These scans are used to create a 3D model of your shoulder, allowing your surgeon to plan the procedure with high precision. In some cases, pre-surgery physical therapy (prehab) may be recommended to improve shoulder strength and mobility in preparation for recovery..
After the Procedure:
After the procedure, our care team will monitor you as you wake up from anesthesia and manage any discomfort with pain medications. Most patients stay in the hospital for one to two days, but some may return home the same day, depending on individual circumstances. Expect to wear a sling for a few weeks and undergo physical therapy to help restore movement and gradually build strength. Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to track your healing and implant position. While most people return to light daily activities within a few weeks, full recovery typically takes three to six months.
Fixation of Pelvic Fractures
Fixation of Pelvic Fractures
Overview:
Fixation of pelvic fractures is a surgical procedure to stabilize broken pelvic bones caused by trauma such as falls or accidents. Using metal plates, screws, rods, or external fixators, surgeons realign and secure the bones to promote proper healing. This helps restore pelvic stability, reduce pain, enable early movement, and prevent complications from unstable fractures. Fixation is tailored to the fracture’s type and severity and may be part of a broader treatment plan.
Conditions Treated:
- Pelvic ring fractures
- Hip socket fractures
- Open pelvic fractures
- Displaced or unstable pelvic fractures
- Complex fractures involving multiple pelvic bones
- Pelvic fractures with associated soft tissue injuries
Before the Procedure:
- Emergency evaluation and imaging (X-rays, CT scans) to assess fracture
- Stabilization of vital signs if trauma is severe
- Preoperative planning by orthopedic trauma and surgical teams
- Instructions on anesthesia and surgery risks
- Possible preparation in an intensive care or trauma unit
After the Procedure:
- Hospital stay that may range from days to weeks, depending on injury severity
- Pain management and monitoring for complications like infection or bleeding
- Limited weight-bearing or mobility initially, often with assistive devices
- Physical therapy to regain strength and function as healing progresses
- Follow-up visits for imaging and assessment of bone healing
- Possible additional surgeries if needed for wound care or hardware adjustment
Hip Resurfacing
Overview:
Hip resurfacing is a type of hip surgery that serves as an alternative to total hip replacement, especially for younger, active patients. Instead of removing the entire ball of the hip joint, the surgeon trims and caps it with a smooth metal covering. The damaged socket is also fitted with a metal cup.
Conditions Treated:
- Osteoarthritis of hip
- Loss of blood supply to femoral head (avascular necrosis)
- Rheumatoid arthritis affecting hip joint
- Hip dysplasia with arthritis
- Post-traumatic arthritis after hip injury
- Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) with joint damage
Before the Procedure:
- Consultation and evaluation: Your orthopedic surgeon will review your medical history, perform a physical exam, and order imaging tests like X-rays or MRIs to assess the hip joint.
- Pre-surgical testing: You may need blood work, EKG, or other tests to ensure you’re healthy enough for surgery.
- Medication review: Discuss current medications with your doctor. Some may need to be stopped before surgery (especially blood thinners).
- Preoperative instructions: You’ll receive guidance on fasting (usually no food or drink 6–12 hours before surgery) and what to bring to the hospital.
- Anesthesia consultation: You’ll meet the anesthesia team to discuss options (general or regional anesthesia) and address any concerns.
After the Procedure:
- Wake up in recovery with pain and swelling managed by medication.
- Hospital stay of 1–3 days with early physical therapy to start movement.
- Use assistive devices (crutches/walker) to help with walking.
- Follow wound care and activity instructions at home.
- Continue physical therapy for several weeks to regain strength and mobility.
- Avoid high-impact activities until cleared by your doctor.
- Attend follow-up appointments to monitor healing.
- Expect significant pain relief and improved hip function over 3 to 6 months.
- Hip resurfacing preserves bone, aiding potential future surgeries.
Partial Knee Replacement
Overview:
A partial knee replacement is a surgical procedure where only the damaged part of the knee joint is replaced with an artificial implant, rather than the entire joint. It’s typically used when osteoarthritis or damage is limited to one compartment of the knee. Because healthy bone, cartilage, and ligaments are preserved, recovery is often quicker and function feels more natural compared to total knee replacement. It's best suited for patients with localized arthritis and good overall knee stability.
Conditions Treated:
- Osteoarthritis
- Post-traumatic arthritis
- Avascular necrosis
Before the Procedure:
- Physical exam and medical history review
- Imaging tests (X-rays, MRI, or CT) to assess joint damage
- Lab work to check overall health
- Discussion of medication
- Pre-surgery exercises or physical therapy recommendations
- Pre-op instructions (fasting, showering with antibacterial soap, etc.)
After the Procedure:
- Hospital stay of 1–2 days
- Pain management with medications and ice therapy
- Rehabilitation
- Physical therapy and exercise
- Exercises to regain motion, strength, and function
- Gradual return to daily activities over weeks to months
- Use of assistive devices as advised (walker, cane)
- Avoiding high-impact activities until cleared by your surgeon
Patient-Specific Knee Replacement
Patient-Specific Knee Replacement
Overview:
Patient-specific knee replacement is a customized form of knee surgery that uses advanced imaging, such as MRI or CT scans, to create implants and surgical guides tailored to a patient’s unique anatomy. This personalized approach helps improve implant alignment, joint function, and overall fit. It may reduce surgical time, enhance comfort and mobility, and potentially extend the life of the implant, offering a more natural-feeling knee replacement.
Conditions Treated:
- Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Post-traumatic arthritis
- Knee deformities (e.g., knock knees, bowlegs)
- Failed previous knee surgeries
Before the Procedure:
- Detailed imaging (MRI or CT scans) to create custom surgical guides and implants
- Preoperative evaluation, including physical exam and medical history review
- Instructions on medications, fasting, and preparing for surgery
- Planning for recovery and arranging support at home
After the Procedure:
- Hospital stay typically 1–3 days with pain management and monitoring
- Early physical therapy to regain movement and strength
- Use of assistive devices (walker, crutches) during initial recovery
- Follow-up visits to track healing and adjust rehabilitation
- Ability to resume daily activities within weeks (full recovery may take months)
Total or Partial Joint Arthroplasty (Reconstruction)
Total or Partial Joint Arthroplasty (Reconstruction)
Overview:
Arthroplasty is a surgical procedure that involves repairing, remodeling, or replacing a damaged joint to restore its function and relieve pain. It's commonly performed on hips, knees, shoulders, and other joints affected by arthritis, injury, or degeneration. There are two primary types of arthroplasty procedures: total and partial. Total involves replacing the entire joint surface with artificial parts while partial involves replacing only the damaged parts.
For example, with a total reverse shoulder arthroplasty, the ball and socket positions are switched to allow the deltoid muscle (instead of the rotator cuff) to lift the arm. With a partial elbow arthroplasty, the damaged parts of the elbow joint are removed and replaced with artificial components (implants).
Conditions Treated:
- Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Post-traumatic arthritis
- Joint deformities
- Severe joint fractures
- Avascular necrosis
- Certain congenital joint disorders
- Joint damage from infections or tumors
Before the Procedure:
- Medical evaluation including physical exam and imaging (X-rays, MRI)
- Discussion of surgical risks, benefits, and options
- Instructions on medications and fasting before surgery
- Preoperative planning for anesthesia and postoperative care
- Preparing your home and arranging help during recovery
After the Procedure:
- Hospital stay of 1–4 days depending on joint and procedure
- Pain management with medications and ice
- Early physical therapy to restore movement and strength
- Use of assistive devices (walker, cane) as needed
- Wound care and monitoring for infection
- Follow-up visits to track healing and progress
- Gradual return to daily activities over weeks to months
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