OrthoCarolina is one of the largest orthopedic practices in the Carolinas, and they’re dedicated to helping people get back to doing the things they love.
When your knees and hips are healthy, you can move freely and live life to the fullest. But pain and limited mobility in these joints can seriously impact your day-to-day activities.
This article provides an overview of common knee and hip conditions treated at OrthoCarolina and the treatment options available. We will discuss the approaches that the experts at OrthoCarolina Knee and Hip use to help patients regain their mobility and reduce pain.
Common Knee Conditions Treated at OrthoCarolina
OrthoCarolina’s knee and hip specialists see patients with a wide range of conditions. Here are some of the most common.
Osteoarthritis of the Knee
Osteoarthritis happens when the cartilage in your knee joint breaks down over time, resulting in pain and stiffness. Symptoms include pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced range of motion.
At OrthoCarolina, doctors diagnose knee osteoarthritis through a physical exam and imaging techniques, such as X-rays and MRIs.
ACL Injuries
The anterior cruciate ligament, or ACL, is a key ligament in your knee. ACL injuries often happen when you make sudden stops or changes in direction, or when you land awkwardly from a jump. If you tear your ACL, you may hear a popping sound, followed by immediate pain and instability in the knee.
OrthoCarolina offers both nonsurgical treatments, such as physical therapy, and surgical reconstruction for ACL injuries.
Meniscus Tears
The meniscus is a piece of cartilage in your knee that cushions the joint. Meniscus tears often happen because of twisting injuries or age-related degeneration. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and a clicking or locking feeling in the knee.
Treatment options at OrthoCarolina include physical therapy and arthroscopic surgery, such as meniscectomy or meniscus repair.
Common Hip Conditions Treated at OrthoCarolina
OrthoCarolina’s hip specialists treat a wide range of conditions, from arthritis to sports-related injuries. Here are some of the most common:
Osteoarthritis of the Hip
Hip osteoarthritis happens when the cartilage in your hip joint breaks down. This can be caused by age, genetics, or previous injuries. Common symptoms include pain in the groin, stiffness, and a limited range of motion. OrthoCarolina diagnoses hip osteoarthritis through a physical exam and imaging tests like X-rays.
Hip Impingement (Femoroacetabular Impingement – FAI)
FAI occurs when there’s abnormal bone growth around the hip joint. There are different types of FAI: cam, pincer, and mixed. Symptoms include groin pain, stiffness, and a clicking or popping sensation in the hip. Treatment options at OrthoCarolina range from physical therapy to arthroscopic surgery to reshape the bone.
Hip Bursitis (Trochanteric Bursitis)
Hip bursitis is the inflammation of the bursa, a fluid-filled sac that cushions the outside of the hip. It’s often caused by overuse or direct trauma. The main symptom is pain on the outside of the hip, especially during activity. OrthoCarolina treats hip bursitis with physical therapy, injections, and, in rare cases, surgery.
Diagnostic and Treatment Approaches at OrthoCarolina
If you’re experiencing hip or knee pain, a precise diagnosis is the first step toward effective treatment. At OrthoCarolina, a variety of diagnostic tools and techniques are used to pinpoint the source of your discomfort.
Diagnostic Tools and Techniques
Your journey typically begins with a thorough physical exam conducted by an orthopedic specialist. This evaluation helps assess your range of motion, stability, and pain triggers.
To gain a clearer picture of the underlying issue, advanced imaging technologies may be employed, including:
- X-rays: To visualize bone structures and identify fractures or arthritis.
- MRI: To provide detailed images of soft tissues, such as ligaments, tendons, and cartilage.
- CT scans: To create cross-sectional images of the joint, offering a comprehensive view of bone and soft tissue.
OrthoCarolina focuses on identifying the root cause of your hip or knee pain, ensuring that treatment is tailored to your specific needs.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
Whenever possible, OrthoCarolina emphasizes non-surgical approaches to manage hip and knee conditions. These options may include:
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation: Strengthening exercises, range-of-motion exercises, and pain management techniques.
- Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers, prescription pain medications, and injections like corticosteroids or hyaluronic acid.
- Bracing and assistive devices: Knee braces, hip braces, walkers, or canes to provide support and reduce stress on the joint.
- Lifestyle modifications: Weight management and low-impact exercise to minimize joint strain.
Surgical Treatment Options
When non-surgical approaches prove insufficient, OrthoCarolina offers a range of surgical solutions, including:
- Arthroscopic surgery: Minimally invasive techniques for joint repair and reconstruction.
- Joint replacement surgery: Total knee replacement and total hip replacement when joint damage is severe.
OrthoCarolina has expertise in joint replacement procedures, employing advanced surgical techniques, minimally invasive approaches, and rapid recovery protocols to help you regain function and reduce pain.
Rehabilitation and Recovery at OrthoCarolina
Surgery is only one part of the journey back to an active life. Post-operative rehabilitation is crucial for restoring your strength, range of motion, and overall function.
OrthoCarolina offers comprehensive rehabilitation programs tailored to your specific needs. Their experienced physical therapists will work with you to develop an individualized treatment plan to help you achieve your goals.
Recovery timelines vary depending on the specific procedure and individual factors. However, OrthoCarolina will provide a general overview of what you can expect during your recovery period, setting you up for a successful return to your favorite activities. Your physical therapist will closely monitor your progress and adjust your plan as needed.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re dealing with osteoarthritis, an ACL injury, a meniscus tear, hip impingement, hip bursitis, or another painful knee or hip condition, OrthoCarolina offers a range of treatment options.
From diagnosis to treatment and rehabilitation, OrthoCarolina is committed to providing comprehensive care, so you can get back to living your life to the fullest.
Don’t wait to seek professional help if you’re experiencing knee or hip pain. Early intervention is key to achieving the best possible outcome.