What Are ACL, MCL, and PCL Injuries?

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Article featured on Seattle Children’s Hospital

What are ACL, MCL and PCL injuries?

ACL, MCL and PCL injuries are damage to ligaments that keep the knee from wobbling or giving out when you move. These ligaments are the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), medial collateral ligament (MCL) and posterior cruciate ligament (PCL). When the knee is forced into an unusual position, 1 or more of the ligaments can tear, either part way or all the way.

What are the symptoms of ACL, MCL and PCL injuries?

If the knee of a child, teen or young adult suddenly swells after an accident or injury, they may have a torn ACL, MCL or PCL or another serious knee problem. Other symptoms of knee ligament injuries include:

  • A popping sound at the time of the injury
  • Pain in the knee
  • Knee is wobbly or unstable

How are ACL, MCL and PCL injuries diagnosed?

To help prevent further injuries to the bones and joints, it is important to get a thorough evaluation and proper treatment.

At our clinic, the doctor will:

  • Ask what happened before the knee began to swell and hurt.
  • Examine the knee. To doctors trained in sports medicine, knees with ACL, MCL or PCL tears often feel loose.

We cannot be sure that a knee ligament is torn until the swelling in the knee has gone down. This usually takes 7 to 10 days. At that time, we may take:

  • X-rays of the knee to get more information on what is wrong
  • An MRI if it is not clear that a ligament is torn or if we think there may be other injuries

How are ACL, MCL and PCL injuries treated?

Young people with a torn ACL need surgery to repair or reconstruct the ligament and then physical therapy (PT) to help them get back to their usual activities. If they are still growing, it’s important to receive care from a pediatric orthopedic surgeon who knows how to protect their .

For MCL and PCL injuries, we use nonsurgical methods like PT, including sports PT, whenever possible. Those who have an MCL injury may need to wear a hinged knee brace along with doing PT.

Surgery for ACL, MCL and PCL injuries

Surgery to repair a torn ACL, called transepiphyseal anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. The red lines are the new ligament. The black dots show where the surgeon secures the new ligament to the thighbone above the knee and the shinbone below the knee.

Surgery is the usual treatment after an ACL injury to make the knee stable again.

During ACL surgery, the surgeon replaces the torn ligament with new tissue that will turn into ligament over time. This tissue (called a graft) is taken from another body site and transferred to the new area. Graft tissue can be taken from the patient’s own body or from a donor (cadaver). The surgeon will talk with you in advance about the pros and cons of different types of grafts.

We drill small holes in the shinbone and the thighbone. Then, we pass the new ligament through the drill holes and secure it to the bones.

This surgery requires only small incisions. The surgeon inserts a small tool called an arthroscope into the knee. They use pictures displayed on a large monitor to guide their actions.

A young person who has both an MCL injury and an ACL injury probably will need surgery to reconstruct the ACL.

Surgery is not usually used to treat PCL injuries that happen by themselves. But surgery may be needed if:

  • A PCL injury happens along with an injury to the ACL or another part of the knee.
  • An injury moves the piece of bone the PCL is attached to far from its usual place on the shinbone. Surgeons can put the bone back and attach it again.

Physical therapy for ACL, MCL and PCL injuries

PT is an important part of getting better after surgery for any knee ligament injury. It will help strengthen the muscles around the knee and make the joint stable.

If an MCL or PCL injury is mild, a child, teen or young adult may be able to recover with PT alone. Our staff is expert at devising and teaching exercise programs to help patients:

  • Recover range of motion
  • Rebuild strength and stability
  • Restore balance
  • Regain confidence in using their knee

Most patients will have PT sessions with us a couple of times a week until they meet their goals for returning to their sport or other usual activities. Afterward, our therapists may also recommend exercises to keep doing at home.

To prevent new or repeat injuries, we have a strong focus on return-to-sport testing. Our PTs know how to check when a patient is ready to be more active or go back to their sport. We have done a great deal of research to understand how to make these decisions so each patient gets the best possible results.

One of the most important ways to prevent repeat injuries is to modify activities that might hurt the knee as it heals. These activities include high-level athletics that require:

  • Jumping
  • Pivoting
  • Contact with other players
  • Playing on an uneven surface

The Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center of Oregon is an award-winning, board-certified orthopedic group located in downtown Portland Oregon. We utilize both surgical and nonsurgical means to treat musculoskeletal trauma, spine diseases, foot and ankle conditions, sports injuries, degenerative diseases, infections, tumors and congenital disorders.

Our mission is to return our patients back to pain-free mobility and full strength as quickly and painlessly as possible using both surgical and non-surgical orthopedic procedures.

Our expert physicians provide leading-edge, comprehensive care in the diagnosis and treatment of orthopedic conditions, including total joint replacement and sports medicine. We apply the latest state-of-the-art techniques in order to return our patients to their active lifestyle.

If you’re looking for compassionate, expert orthopedic and podiatric surgeons in Portland Oregon, contact OSM today.

Phone:

503-224-8399

Address
1515 NW 18th Ave, 3rd Floor
Portland, OR 97209

Hours
Monday–Friday
8:00am – 4:30pm

The Lowdown on How Running Affects Your Knees

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Article featured on Healthline

Lacing up and hitting the pavement for a run is great exercise. It can also be therapeutic, lower your stress levels, and boost your sleep quality, among other benefits.

But given running’s repetitive impact, it can be hard on your body, too. Many wonder whether running harms their knees, specifically.

This article investigates that question, finds the answer, and shares how to take care of your knees when you run.

Is running bad for your knees?

Running is not bad for your knees; running with poor form is bad for your knees.

In fact, most knee injuries caused by running are overuse injuries, meaning you’re putting more stress on your body than it can handle.

Whether that’s ramping up your training schedule too quickly or not resting enough between runs, running too many miles before your muscles, bones, joints, and cartilage are ready for more can increase your risk of injury.

What the science says

Quite a bit of research has investigated running’s effects on the knees .

One study followed a group of long-distance runners, as well as a nonrunner control group, for 18 years. Through a series of X-rays over the nearly two decades, researchers monitored for any presence of osteoarthritis in the knees.

The study results showed that running among healthy older adults was not associated with more prevalent osteoarthritis. In fact, at the end of the study, 20% of the runners showed signs of osteoarthritis, compared with 32% of the nonrunners.

Another study suggests that running may be beneficial for the knees.

Researchers used gait analysis and computer modeling to confirm that running does place a higher load on the knees than walking. Yet, it also causes the bone and cartilage of the knee to adapt, potentially leading to stronger knees overall.

And what if you already have knee pain? Is running completely off the table for you? Research says not necessarily.

A recent study including 82 middle-age volunteers looked at the short-term effects of long-distance running on knee joints using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Pre-training MRIs showed signs of asymptomatic damage to several knee structures in the majority of the participants. After the marathon, the MRIs showed a reduction in tibia and femoral bone damage. However, the MRIs also showed patellar cartilage deterioration.

What does all of this mean? Don’t forgo running because you’re afraid it may cause knee pain. But, as with every activity, listen to your body. When pain occurs, investigate why it might be happening.

Variables that can make running harder on your knees

However, there are a few variables that can make running hard on your knees. These include:

  • Bad form. Good running form is complex and nuanced, but the basics are looking ahead and maintaining good posture and your arms at 90-degree angles while taking quick strides with mid-foot strikes. If you strike the ground with your heel, you’ll be prone to knee pain.
  • Bad shoes. Especially if you run long distances, finding the proper shoe for your gait and foot is key. Factors like the cushion level, arch support, and width of the running shoe are important. If you’re able, visit a local running store and have your foot fitted properly.
  • Rigid surfaces. Many find running on softer surfaces like grass or a treadmill better than running on asphalt or cement. Running is high impact, and research has shown that softer surfaces like a woodchip trail may reduce impact on the tibiae — and thus the knees.

Warning signs your knees may need attention

If you develop any pain around the knee — including above, below, or behind the kneecap — during a run, your body is trying to tell you something. Regardless of whether the pain is dull or sharp, the best course of action is to stop running and rest.

Some common knee injuries in runners include:

  • Runner’s knee. This condition usually manifests as pain in the front of the knee or around the kneecap when you’re running. It’s caused by stress between the patella (your kneecap) and femur (your thigh bone), which causes the cartilage to become irritated.
  • IT band syndrome. If your outer knee is bothering you, you may have iliotibial band (IT band) syndrome, which occurs when the IT band — a long tendon that stretches from your hip down to your outer knee — is too tight.
  • Jumper’s knee. Also known as patellar tendonitis, this condition is caused by an inflamed patellar tendon, which connects your kneecap to your shin. You’ll experience pain in the front of the knee (7).
  • Bursitis. If you have knee bursitis, you’ll experience inflammation and swelling in one of the small, fluid-filled sacs, called bursa, in the knee. This may manifest as a swollen mass on the front of the knee.

If knee pain stops you from running, apply ice to the area and take it easy. If after a few days’ rest your knee is still bothering you, see your doctor for further evaluation.

Tips for protecting your knees when you run

Beyond running with proper form and wearing the right shoes, there are a few other things you can do to protect your knees while you run:

  • Start slowly and conservatively. Avoid going too hard, too fast. Your body requires time to adapt to new stressors. Many long-distance runners follow the 10% Rule, which says that you shouldn’t increase your weekly mileage by more than 10% week-on-week.
  • Stretch before and after you run. If your muscles are tight, you’re more likely to run with bad form and injure yourself. Before you run, do some dynamic stretching, then afterward, try some static stretches.
  • Consider compression sportswear. For example, wearing a knee sleeve while you run can provide some extra support to an unstable knee.

The bottom line

Don’t let a fear of hurting your knees stop you from running. By taking the appropriate precautions — strength training, stretching, wearing proper gear, and being conservative in your training — the benefits of running may very well outweigh the risks.

The Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center of Oregon is an award-winning, board-certified orthopedic group located in downtown Portland Oregon. We utilize both surgical and nonsurgical means to treat musculoskeletal trauma, spine diseases, foot and ankle conditions, sports injuries, degenerative diseases, infections, tumors and congenital disorders.

Our mission is to return our patients back to pain-free mobility and full strength as quickly and painlessly as possible using both surgical and non-surgical orthopedic procedures.

Our expert physicians provide leading-edge, comprehensive care in the diagnosis and treatment of orthopedic conditions, including total joint replacement and sports medicine. We apply the latest state-of-the-art techniques in order to return our patients to their active lifestyle.

If you’re looking for compassionate, expert orthopedic and podiatric surgeons in Portland Oregon, contact OSM today.

Phone:

503-224-8399

Address
1515 NW 18th Ave, 3rd Floor
Portland, OR 97209

Hours
Monday–Friday
8:00am – 4:30pm

Potential Causes & Common Treatment of Patella Alta

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Article featured on Atlas Pain Specialists

You may be wondering , what are some causes and treatment of patella alta? Patella alta, also known as ‘high-riding patella,’ is a knee condition characterized by an abnormally high position of the patella or kneecap in relation to the femur, the thigh bone. This condition may lead to discomfort, knee pain, instability, and an increased risk of patellar dislocation or patellar subluxation.

A full understanding of patella alta requires a look at its potential causes, symptoms, diagnosis methods, and treatment options.

Possible Causes of Patella Alta

Patella alta is a condition that can result from various causes, both genetic and acquired. Here are some possible causes of this condition:

  1. Genetic Predisposition: Patella alta can be congenital, meaning a person is born with it. In these cases, the individual’s patellar tendon, which anchors the kneecap to the shinbone, is naturally longer than average, causing the kneecap to sit higher than usual.
  2. Growth Abnormalities: In children and adolescents, damage to the growth plate can cause the patellar tendon to grow longer than the femur, leading to patella alta. This is often associated with conditions that affect growth plates, such as Osgood-Schlatter disease and Sinding-Larsen-Johansson syndrome.
  3. Trauma or Injury: Any form of trauma to the knee that results in inflammation or damage can potentially lead to patella alta. This could include sports injuries, accidents, or falls that affect the knee region.
  4. Surgical Complications: Patella alta can also be an unintended consequence of knee surgeries. In particular, surgeries involving the patellar tendon, such as anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction, may inadvertently lead to an elongation of the tendon, causing the kneecap to ride higher than normal.
  5. Chronic Conditions: Certain chronic conditions, including patellar tendinitis or jumper’s knee, can cause the patellar tendon to elongate over time. This progressive elongation can eventually lead to patella alta.
  6. Certain Medical Procedures: Some medical procedures, such as casting or bracing of the knee for extended periods, may lead to a temporary or even permanent elongation of the patellar tendon, which could result in patella alta.

In some cases, the exact cause of patella alta may remain unknown. It’s also possible for multiple factors to contribute to the development of this condition.

Diagnosing Patella Alta

Diagnosing patella alta involves assessing the patient’s medical history, conducting a physical examination, and using diagnostic imaging. The healthcare provider collects information about previous knee injuries, surgeries, and existing conditions while noting symptoms such as knee pain, instability, or recurring patellar dislocation. 

During the physical examination, the doctor evaluates the range of motion and stability and performs specific tests to assess the position and movement of the patella. Measurement ratios and indices like the Insall-Salvati ratio, the Caton-Deschamps index, and the Blackburne-Peel ratio are commonly employed to evaluate the patella position.

These measurements are obtained through X-ray imaging or specialized radiographic views of the knee. X-rays, MRI, or CT scans provide detailed images of the knee joint, enabling visualization of patellar alignment and any associated abnormalities. Dynamic imaging techniques such as fluoroscopy or specialized MRI sequences may assess patellar tracking during knee movements.

Following the diagnosis of the patella alta, the healthcare provider develops an appropriate treatment plan based on severity and individual needs. Accurate diagnosis is vital for effective treatment, so it is advised to consult a qualified healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation and personalized guidance toward suitable management options.

Treatment of Patella Alta

The treatment of patella alta typically depends on the severity of the symptoms and the degree of the patella’s displacement. Here are the possible treatment options:

  • Physical Therapy
  • Bracing and Taping
  • NSAIDs
  • Surgery
  • Lifestyle Modification

Physical Therapy

This is often the first line of treatment for patella alta, particularly for mild cases. Therapy exercises aim to strengthen the quadriceps muscle, which helps stabilize the kneecap and improves the flexibility and strength of the knee joint.

Bracing and Taping

Sometimes, a doctor might recommend wearing a knee or patellar stabilizing brace. These devices help hold the kneecap in a more normal position, which can help reduce discomfort and improve stability. Kinesiology taping techniques might also be used to offer support to the patella.

Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

Medications can manage pain and inflammation associated with patella alta. This is typically an adjunct to other treatment modalities, such as physical therapy.

Surgery

For severe cases of patella alta, especially when conservative treatments have failed, surgery might be considered. The goal of surgery is to lower the position of the kneecap by shortening the patellar tendon. Surgical techniques include tibial tubercle osteotomy, where a section of bone where the patellar tendon attaches is moved downwards, and patellar tendon grafting, which involves using a graft to shorten the tendon artificially.

Weight Management

If the patient is overweight, weight loss can help by reducing pressure on the knees and alleviating the symptoms of patella alta.

Lifestyle Modification

Avoiding activities that strain the knee or incorporating exercises that strengthen the muscles around the knee can help manage the symptoms and prevent the worsening of the condition.

The treatment choice should be based on the individual’s specific symptoms, the extent of the patella alta, and the person’s overall health and lifestyle. Regular follow-ups with a healthcare provider are essential to monitor progress and adjust the treatment plan. 

Please note that this information is a general guide, and one should always consult with a healthcare provider for the most appropriate treatment plan for their specific condition.

Conclusion

Patella alta is a condition that requires proper medical attention, as it can potentially lead to more severe knee problems if left untreated. If you suspect that you or someone you know may have this condition, it is recommended to seek medical advice promptly. As with many health conditions, early diagnosis and treatment of patella alta can lead to more positive outcomes.

The Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center of Oregon is an award-winning, board-certified orthopedic group located in downtown Portland Oregon. We utilize both surgical and nonsurgical means to treat musculoskeletal trauma, spine diseases, foot and ankle conditions, sports injuries, degenerative diseases, infections, tumors and congenital disorders.

Our mission is to return our patients back to pain-free mobility and full strength as quickly and painlessly as possible using both surgical and non-surgical orthopedic procedures.

Our expert physicians provide leading-edge, comprehensive care in the diagnosis and treatment of orthopedic conditions, including total joint replacement and sports medicine. We apply the latest state-of-the-art techniques in order to return our patients to their active lifestyle.

If you’re looking for compassionate, expert orthopedic and podiatric surgeons in Portland Oregon, contact OSM today.

Phone:

503-224-8399

Address
1515 NW 18th Ave, 3rd Floor
Portland, OR 97209

Hours
Monday–Friday
8:00am – 4:30pm

What is Patellar Subluxation

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Article featured on Nationwide Children’s

Subluxation means partial dislocation of a bone. Kneecap (patellar) subluxation means the kneecap has briefly slid out of its normal place in the groove at the center of the bottom end of the thigh bone.

The Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center of Oregon is an award-winning, board-certified orthopedic group located in downtown Portland Oregon. We utilize both surgical and nonsurgical means to treat musculoskeletal trauma, spine diseases, foot and ankle conditions, sports injuries, degenerative diseases, infections, tumors and congenital disorders.

Our mission is to return our patients back to pain-free mobility and full strength as quickly and painlessly as possible using both surgical and non-surgical orthopedic procedures.

Our expert physicians provide leading-edge, comprehensive care in the diagnosis and treatment of orthopedic conditions, including total joint replacement and sports medicine. We apply the latest state-of-the-art techniques in order to return our patients to their active lifestyle.

If you’re looking for compassionate, expert orthopedic and podiatric surgeons in Portland Oregon, contact OSM today.

Phone:

503-224-8399

Address
1515 NW 18th Ave, 3rd Floor
Portland, OR 97209

Hours
Monday–Friday
8:00am – 4:30pm

Torn MCL Average Recovery Time

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The Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center of Oregon is an award-winning, board-certified orthopedic group located in downtown Portland Oregon. We utilize both surgical and nonsurgical means to treat musculoskeletal trauma, spine diseases, foot and ankle conditions, sports injuries, degenerative diseases, infections, tumors and congenital disorders.

Our mission is to return our patients back to pain-free mobility and full strength as quickly and painlessly as possible using both surgical and non-surgical orthopedic procedures.

Our expert physicians provide leading-edge, comprehensive care in the diagnosis and treatment of orthopedic conditions, including total joint replacement and sports medicine. We apply the latest state-of-the-art techniques in order to return our patients to their active lifestyle.

If you’re looking for compassionate, expert orthopedic and podiatric surgeons in Portland Oregon, contact OSM today.

Phone:

503-224-8399

Address
1515 NW 18th Ave, 3rd Floor
Portland, OR 97209

Hours
Monday–Friday
8:00am – 4:30pm

Can Surgery Help Your Knee Arthritis?

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The Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center of Oregon is an award-winning, board-certified orthopedic group located in downtown Portland Oregon. We utilize both surgical and nonsurgical means to treat musculoskeletal trauma, spine diseases, foot and ankle conditions, sports injuries, degenerative diseases, infections, tumors and congenital disorders.

Our mission is to return our patients back to pain-free mobility and full strength as quickly and painlessly as possible using both surgical and non-surgical orthopedic procedures.

Our expert physicians provide leading-edge, comprehensive care in the diagnosis and treatment of orthopedic conditions, including total joint replacement and sports medicine. We apply the latest state-of-the-art techniques in order to return our patients to their active lifestyle.

If you’re looking for compassionate, expert orthopedic and podiatric surgeons in Portland Oregon, contact OSM today.

Phone:

503-224-8399

Address
1515 NW 18th Ave, 3rd Floor
Portland, OR 97209

Hours
Monday–Friday
8:00am – 4:30pm

Osgood-Schlatter Disease in Children

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The Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center of Oregon is an award-winning, board-certified orthopedic group located in downtown Portland Oregon. We utilize both surgical and nonsurgical means to treat musculoskeletal trauma, spine diseases, foot and ankle conditions, sports injuries, degenerative diseases, infections, tumors and congenital disorders.

Our mission is to return our patients back to pain-free mobility and full strength as quickly and painlessly as possible using both surgical and non-surgical orthopedic procedures.

Our expert physicians provide leading-edge, comprehensive care in the diagnosis and treatment of orthopedic conditions, including total joint replacement and sports medicine. We apply the latest state-of-the-art techniques in order to return our patients to their active lifestyle.

If you’re looking for compassionate, expert orthopedic and podiatric surgeons in Portland Oregon, contact OSM today.

Phone:

503-224-8399

Address
1515 NW 18th Ave, 3rd Floor
Portland, OR 97209

Hours
Monday–Friday
8:00am – 4:30pm

What is a Knee Replacement Revision?

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Article featured on Summit Ortho

Hundreds of thousands of Americans have total knee replacement surgery each year to treat severe knee arthritis that no longer responds to conservative treatments. Conservative treatments are those such as medications, physical therapy, or injections. In this surgery, the damaged joint surfaces of the knee are replaced with artificial metal and plastic implants. These knee implants may last individuals 20 or more years. For some people, their knee implants will last the rest of their lives. However, some knee replacements do not last as long as patients and their providers hope or wear out over time.

“I think every knee replacement surgeon hopes that the knee replacement they do for each patient is the last knee surgery for that individual. But sometimes knee replacements wear out over time or may not function as well as we hoped,” said Summit hip and knee surgeon and total joint replacement specialist Brandon Kelly, M.D.

What is a knee replacement revision?

A knee replacement revision is a surgery to replace one or multiple knee replacement parts with new ones. The specifics of each revision surgery depend on how and where the original implant is failing. Other factors include the individual patient’s age, health, activity level, and other factors.

The need for a knee replacement revision surgery is an individualized decision made between the patient and the surgeon. It is typically recommended when there is a problem with the current knee replacement implants or if the knee is not meeting the patient’s quality of life goals. The decision for knee replacement revision is individualized to each patient’s medical and social factors. Sometimes, surgical intervention may not align with every patient’s goals of care.

“Knee replacement revision is usually a big decision for patients and surgeons. I like to educate my patients on what’s going well and what’s not going well with their current knee replacements. Then we discuss what may or may not be improved with revision knee replacement surgery before proceeding with surgery. I like to understand my patients’ goals to ensure I can meet them before proceeding with surgical intervention,” Dr. Kelly noted.

What else is important to know about knee revision surgery?

Revision knee replacement surgery is typically a more complex, longer, and technically challenging surgery than total knee replacement. That’s why it’s important to choose your knee revision specialist carefully. There are many factors that contribute to postoperative recovery, but recovery time after revision knee replacement surgery in most circumstances is similar to a total knee replacement surgery.

As with a first-time knee replacement, preoperative and postoperative physical therapy is vital to help condition and strengthen the lower extremities.

The Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center of Oregon is an award-winning, board-certified orthopedic group located in downtown Portland Oregon. We utilize both surgical and nonsurgical means to treat musculoskeletal trauma, spine diseases, foot and ankle conditions, sports injuries, degenerative diseases, infections, tumors and congenital disorders.

Our mission is to return our patients back to pain-free mobility and full strength as quickly and painlessly as possible using both surgical and non-surgical orthopedic procedures.

Our expert physicians provide leading-edge, comprehensive care in the diagnosis and treatment of orthopedic conditions, including total joint replacement and sports medicine. We apply the latest state-of-the-art techniques in order to return our patients to their active lifestyle.

If you’re looking for compassionate, expert orthopedic and podiatric surgeons in Portland Oregon, contact OSM today.

Phone:

503-224-8399

Address
1515 NW 18th Ave, 3rd Floor
Portland, OR 97209

Hours
Monday–Friday
8:00am – 4:30pm

Take Care of Your Knees

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Article featured on UCSF Health

Five Steps to Improve Strength and Flexibility

Although collateral ligament injuries often occur during sports and are difficult to avoid, there are several steps you can take to improve the overall strength and flexibility of your knees:

  • Manage your weight: Every pound in excess of your normal weight puts three or four additional pounds of pressure on your knee every time you take a step.
  • Keep your legs strong: The hamstrings, in the back of the thigh, and the quadriceps, the muscles in the front of the thigh, are crucial shock and impact absorbers. These muscles must be kept strong and flexible to protect the joint surfaces in your knee.
  • Stretch your muscles: Stretching before exercising should be a regular part of your warm-up; however, it is important not to over-stretch. Never push or pull on your leg with your hands while you are stretching, and avoid squatting during your warm-up, which can put stress on your knee joint.
  • Wear proper shoes: Well-cushioned, well-fitting athletic shoes can reduce the impact of the load exerted on the knees.
  • Ease into shape: If your activities require twisting and turning such as racket sports, skiing, soccer and basketball, don’t assume you can play yourself into shape. Make sure you are in good physical shape before you play.

The Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center of Oregon is an award-winning, board-certified orthopedic group located in downtown Portland Oregon. We utilize both surgical and nonsurgical means to treat musculoskeletal trauma, spine diseases, foot and ankle conditions, sports injuries, degenerative diseases, infections, tumors and congenital disorders.

Our mission is to return our patients back to pain-free mobility and full strength as quickly and painlessly as possible using both surgical and non-surgical orthopedic procedures.

Our expert physicians provide leading-edge, comprehensive care in the diagnosis and treatment of orthopedic conditions, including total joint replacement and sports medicine. We apply the latest state-of-the-art techniques in order to return our patients to their active lifestyle.

If you’re looking for compassionate, expert orthopedic and podiatric surgeons in Portland Oregon, contact OSM today.

Phone:

503-224-8399

Address
1515 NW 18th Ave, 3rd Floor
Portland, OR 97209

Hours
Monday–Friday
8:00am – 4:30pm

4 Things to Know About Meniscus Repair

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Article featured on Noyes Knee Institute

Injuries to the meniscus are common, especially among athletes and individuals involved in physical activities. Pain, inflammation, and restricted mobility can result from torn or injured meniscus. Here are four things to know about meniscus repair:

1. The Importance of Early Diagnosis

Early diagnosis of a meniscus tear results in prompt and effective treatment. If left untreated, meniscus tears can worsen over time, leading to more significant pain and potential damage to the knee joint. As soon as symptoms like knee pain, swelling, and limited range of motion arise, consult an orthopedic knee surgeon for a thorough evaluation.

An early diagnosis allows the knee surgeon to recommend appropriate treatment options, including conservative measures like rest, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications. In some cases, meniscus repair surgery may be the best course of action to restore knee function.

2. Meniscus Repair Surgery

Orthopedic knee surgeons perform meniscus repair surgery to mend the torn meniscus tissue and restore knee stability. The surgery can be done through minimally invasive arthroscopic techniques involving small incisions and a tiny camera called an arthroscope that guides the surgeon’s instruments.

During the surgery, the surgeon will carefully suture the torn edges of the meniscus together. This allows the tissue to heal and regain its strength. The success of meniscus repair largely depends on the type and location of the tear, as well as the patient’s age and overall knee health.

3. Rehabilitation and Recovery

Following meniscus repair surgery, a comprehensive rehabilitation program is recommended to promote healing and regain knee function. Orthopedic surgeons work closely with physical therapists to design a personalized rehabilitation plan for each patient.

Rehabilitation typically involves exercises to improve knee strength, flexibility, and stability. Patients are advised to diligently follow their physical therapy regimen and avoid activities that may strain the healing meniscus excessively. The recovery period after meniscus repair surgery varies from patient to patient. While some individuals may resume light activities within a few weeks, others may require several months to recover fully and return to more vigorous activities.

4. Complication Awareness

If the medial meniscus has been destroyed, the only treatment is to remove the damaged portions and repair the remaining area. As with any surgical procedure, meniscus repair surgery carries some risks and potential complications. Infection, blood clots, and adverse reactions to anesthesia are possible but rare. Patients are encouraged to discuss any concerns or medical conditions with their orthopedic knee surgeon before the procedure.

In some cases, meniscus tears may be too severe or located in a region with limited blood supply, making repair surgery unfeasible. The surgeon may opt for a meniscectomy, a procedure to trim and remove the damaged portion of the meniscus. While a meniscectomy provides symptom relief, it may also increase the risk of early-onset osteoarthritis in the knee joint.

The Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Center of Oregon is an award-winning, board-certified orthopedic group located in downtown Portland Oregon. We utilize both surgical and nonsurgical means to treat musculoskeletal trauma, spine diseases, foot and ankle conditions, sports injuries, degenerative diseases, infections, tumors and congenital disorders.

Our mission is to return our patients back to pain-free mobility and full strength as quickly and painlessly as possible using both surgical and non-surgical orthopedic procedures.

Our expert physicians provide leading-edge, comprehensive care in the diagnosis and treatment of orthopedic conditions, including total joint replacement and sports medicine. We apply the latest state-of-the-art techniques in order to return our patients to their active lifestyle.

If you’re looking for compassionate, expert orthopedic and podiatric surgeons in Portland Oregon, contact OSM today.

Phone:

503-224-8399

Address
1515 NW 18th Ave, 3rd Floor
Portland, OR 97209

Hours
Monday–Friday
8:00am – 4:30pm