Knee conditions can disrupt the function of one of your most important joints. These problems make even basic daily activities, such as walking upstairs or doing household chores, difficult. The good news is that orthopedic surgeons can help you manage and treat various knee conditions.
Let’s talk about some common conditions your orthopedic surgeon can help you with and where you can find the best orthopedic surgeon in Naples, FL.:
1. Osteoarthritis
This condition causes joint deterioration and swelling due to the breakdown of cartilage. It can cause joint pain, stiffness, and difficulty using the affected knee.
To help manage the progression of osteoarthritis, orthopedic surgeons can recommend treatments such as:
Medications
Medications like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can reduce pain and swelling.
Physical Therapy
Targeted exercises help keep the joint flexible and strengthen the muscles that support it.
Surgery
Joint replacement surgery may be recommended when medications and physical therapy do not adequately relieve pain. This procedure is often successful at restoring joint function and reducing pain.
Knee replacement surgery can be performed in partial or total knee replacement.
Partial Knee Replacement
In this procedure, the surgeon removes a section of the joint and replaces it with a metal or plastic component. This is best suited for people with osteoarthritis in a single compartment of the knee.
Total Knee Replacement
This procedure involves replacing the entire joint surface with metal and plastic components. This is best suited for people whose osteoarthritis affects more than one knee compartment.
2. Torn Meniscus
The meniscus is a C-shaped piece of cartilage in the knee that helps absorb shock and provides cushioning. It can be torn, often due to sports-related injuries or age-related degeneration.
A torn meniscus can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the joint. This condition often affects people who participate in sports that require a lot of twisting and turning.
Conservative Treatments
The first kinds of treatment for a torn meniscus are rest, ice, and anti-inflammatory medications. If the pain does not disappear with conservative treatments, your orthopedic surgeon may recommend an arthroscopic procedure.
Knee Arthroscopy
This minimally-invasive surgery involves making a small incision and inserting a scope and other small tools into the joint. Your surgeon can then repair or remove the damaged tissue.
Your orthopedic surgeon will work with you to determine the best course of action. Surgery is usually recommended if the pain does not improve with other treatments.
3. ACL Injury
The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the four main ligaments in the knee. It provides stability, assists in mobility, and can be injured due to sudden movement or direct contact with another person.
An ACL injury can cause pain, swelling, and joint instability. It can also make it difficult to extend or bend the knee.
Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation
Your orthopedic surgeon may recommend rehabilitation exercises and physical therapy to help strengthen the muscles that support the knee.
Surgery may be recommended if the pain does not improve with those treatments.
ACL Repair
ACL repair surgery is often recommended for people who want to return to high-level activities. Whether you have a partial or full tear, surgery aims to restore normal function and stability.
4. Tendonitis
Tendonitis is an inflammation of the tendons in the knee which can cause pain and stiffness. It can be caused by overuse, repetitive motions, or an injury.
Conservative Treatments
Tendonitis can be managed with conservative treatments like rest, ice, and anti-inflammatory medications.
Your orthopedic surgeon may also suggest physical therapy to help reduce swelling and improve your range of motion.
Steroid Injections
If the pain does not improve with those, your orthopedic surgeon may recommend steroid injections. These injections can reduce inflammation and help relieve pain.
Surgery
In some cases, surgery to repair the affected tendon may be recommended. Your surgeon will work with you to determine if this is the best option for your particular case.
The Best Treatment
There is no one-size-fits-all solution for knee conditions. Your orthopedic surgeon will evaluate your condition and work with you to determine the best treatment plan.
Regardless of the care you need, your orthopedic surgeon can help you return to a full, active life.
If you are experiencing knee pain or mobility issues, contact your orthopedic surgeon to discuss your options. You can get back on track and enjoy life with the right care.
Orthopedic Surgeon & Knee Specialist in Naples, FL
Are you looking for the best orthopedic surgeon and knee specialist in Naples, FL? Look no further than the healthcare providers at Joint Replacement Institute. Here at the Joint Replacement Institute, our board-certified orthopedic surgeons are highly skilled and experienced in orthopedic surgeries and are up-to-date on the latest advancements that can further help our patients live better lives. Since 2008, we have been providing medical care for the orthopedic needs of our patients.
If you have any questions or would like to book a consultation, call us at (239) 261-2663 or use our online appointment request form. We look forward to serving you.
We look forward to helping you get back to 100%!
