Knee pain and knee injuries

Overview

Common conditions we treat

• Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries

  Usually happen when pivoting, stopping suddenly or landing from a jump. A “pop”, rapid swelling and a feeling that the knee gives way are common.

• Posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) injuries

  Often caused by a direct blow to the front of a bent knee, such as in a car accident or a fall. They can cause pain and instability.

• Medial collateral ligament (MCL) injuries

  Affect the inner side of the knee, usually from a blow or an inward twist. Many heal with a brace and rehabilitation.

• Meniscus tears

  The menisci are cartilage “cushions” between the bones. A tear can cause joint-line pain, swelling, clicking or locking.

• Cartilage defects

  Damaged areas in the cartilage lining the bones. They can cause pain, swelling and clicking, and raise the risk of arthritis if not addressed.

• Patellar instability

  The kneecap slips out of its groove (dislocation) or feels loose. It is more common in young, active people and can recur if untreated.

• Patellofemoral pain

  Pain around or behind the kneecap that worsens with stairs, squatting or prolonged sitting. It usually improves with strengthening and activity changes.

• Knee osteoarthritis

  Progressive wear of the cartilage. It causes pain, stiffness and swelling, especially when walking or after being inactive.

Symptoms that deserve an evaluation

• Knee swelling after an injury or activity
• A feeling that the knee shifts, is loose or gives way
• Painful clicking, or the knee locks and will not fully straighten
• Pain going up or down stairs, squatting or kneeling
• Pain around or behind the kneecap
• Stiffness in the morning or when getting up from a chair
• Difficulty putting weight on the leg

Treatment options

Every plan is individual. Whenever appropriate, we start with the least invasive treatment and only recommend surgery when it can truly help you.

1. Step 1 · Non-operative

   Non-operative treatment

   Many knee conditions improve with a good rehabilitation plan and pain control.

   • Physical therapy and strengtheningQuadriceps, hip and core work to support the knee.
   • BracingTo protect healing ligaments or unload part of the knee.
   • Medication and activity modificationTo control pain and inflammation.
   • Image-guided injectionsIncluding biologic options such as PRP in selected cases.

2. Step 2 · Joint preservation

   Knee preservation surgery

   Aims to repair what is injured and protect your own joint.

   • Knee arthroscopyMinimally invasive, camera-guided surgery to diagnose and treat injuries inside the knee.
   • Ligament repair or reconstructionOf the ACL, PCL, collateral or other ligaments to restore knee stability.
   • Meniscus repairWhen the tear pattern allows, the meniscus is repaired and preserved.
   • Cartilage restorationTechniques to stimulate or replace damaged cartilage in selected defects.
   • Patellar stabilizationProcedures to keep the kneecap from dislocating again.
   • OsteotomyRealigning the bone to shift load away from the worn part of the knee.

3. Step 3 · Joint replacement

   Knee replacement

   When arthritis is advanced and limits your daily life.

   • Partial knee replacementOnly the worn compartment is replaced when the rest of the knee is healthy.
   • Total knee replacementThe joint surfaces are replaced to relieve pain and improve function.

When to see an orthopedic specialist

• You felt a “pop” and your knee swelled quickly
• Your knee locks, gives way or will not fully straighten
• Swelling or pain does not improve after a few days of rest
• Your kneecap slipped out of place, even if it went back on its own
• Pain keeps you from exercising, working or sleeping well
• You have arthritis and want to know all your options before deciding

Frequently asked questions

This content is educational and does not replace a medical evaluation. Every case is different: diagnosis and treatment are determined during your visit.