THE KNEE

The knee is one of the largest and most complex joints in the body, consisting of bones, cartilage, ligaments, and tendons that work together to support movement and stability. It is a hinge joint formed where the femur (thighbone), tibia (shinbone), and patella (kneecap) meet, allowing for activities like walking, running, bending, and twisting. The joint is cushioned by articular cartilage and menisci, which act as shock absorbers, while ligaments such as the ACL, PCL, MCL, and LCL provide stability and control motion. The muscles and tendons surrounding the knee, including the quadriceps and hamstrings, contribute to strength and mobility, making the knee essential for daily functions.

Due to its critical role in movement and weight-bearing, the knee is prone to various injuries and degenerative conditions, such as ligament tears, meniscal damage, and arthritis. Orthopedic surgeons specialize in treating these conditions, offering both non-surgical and surgical solutions, including physical therapy, joint injections, minimally invasive arthroscopy, and total knee replacement. Whether addressing acute injuries or chronic conditions, the goal of knee surgery is to alleviate pain, restore function, and improve the patient’s quality of life, allowing them to return to their normal activities with greater ease and confidence.

Some of the most common Knee conditions include:

  • Osteoarthritis

  • Meniscus Tear

  • Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Tear

  • Patellar Tendonitis (Jumper's Knee)

  • Bursitis

  • Rheumatoid Arthritis

  • Knee Fractures

  • Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL) Tear

  • Knee Dislocation

  • Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (Runner’s Knee)

COMMON CONDITIONS

Osteoarthritis of the Knee

Osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee is a degenerative joint disease that occurs when the protective cartilage cushioning the bones of the knee joint gradually wears away. As the cartilage erodes, bones begin to rub against each other, causing pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Osteoarthritis is more common in older adults, but it can also be accelerated by factors like previous injuries, obesity, and genetics. Patients often experience difficulty with activities such as walking, climbing stairs, or standing for long periods. In the advanced stages, the condition can become debilitating, limiting the ability to perform everyday tasks.

Orthopedic treatment for knee osteoarthritis typically starts with conservative options such as physical therapy, weight management, anti-inflammatory medications, and corticosteroid injections. However, when these treatments fail to provide relief and the condition worsens, surgical intervention may be necessary. Total knee replacement (arthroplasty) is a common surgical procedure for advanced OA, in which the damaged joint surfaces are replaced with artificial components. This surgery can significantly reduce pain, improve function, and restore mobility, allowing patients to return to an active lifestyle. Post-surgery rehabilitation is key to a successful recovery and long-term outcomes.

Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Tear

An ACL tear is a common knee injury, particularly among athletes involved in high-impact sports such as soccer, basketball, and football. The ACL is a crucial ligament that provides stability to the knee by preventing the tibia (shinbone) from sliding forward relative to the femur (thighbone). ACL tears often occur when there is a sudden change in direction, landing awkwardly from a jump, or direct trauma to the knee. Symptoms include a "popping" sound at the time of injury, followed by significant swelling, instability, and pain, making it difficult to walk or bear weight on the affected leg.

Orthopedic treatment for an ACL tear depends on the severity of the injury and the patient’s activity level. While non-surgical treatments, including physical therapy and bracing, may be sufficient for less active individuals, athletes or those seeking full knee stability often require surgical repair. ACL reconstruction surgery involves replacing the torn ligament with a graft, typically from the patient’s own tissue. Post-operative rehabilitation is essential to restore strength and stability to the knee, and full recovery can take six months to a year. Surgery, combined with a structured rehabilitation program, allows most patients to return to their previous level of activity, including sports.

COMMON PROCEDURES

Total Knee Replacement (Knee Arthroplasty)

Total knee replacement, or knee arthroplasty, is a surgical procedure performed to treat severe knee arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis, that causes debilitating pain and impaired mobility. During the procedure, the orthopedic surgeon removes the damaged cartilage and bone from the knee joint and replaces it with artificial components made of metal, plastic, or ceramic. These components mimic the natural movement of the knee joint, relieving pain and restoring function. This surgery is typically recommended when conservative treatments such as medications, physical therapy, and injections fail to provide relief.

Recovery from total knee replacement involves a structured rehabilitation program that includes physical therapy to regain strength, mobility, and range of motion in the knee. Patients are often able to walk with assistance the day after surgery, and full recovery can take several months. Modern advancements in surgical techniques and implant materials have made knee replacement highly successful, with most patients experiencing significant pain relief and improved quality of life. Total knee replacement can last 15 to 20 years or longer, depending on the patient’s activity level and overall health.

Knee Arthroscopy

Knee arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat a variety of knee conditions, such as meniscal tears, ligament injuries, and damaged cartilage. During the procedure, the orthopedic surgeon inserts a small camera, called an arthroscope, into the knee joint through tiny incisions. The camera provides a clear view of the inside of the knee, allowing the surgeon to perform repairs using small, specialized instruments. Knee arthroscopy is often recommended for younger or more active patients who want to avoid the longer recovery associated with open knee surgery.

One of the major benefits of knee arthroscopy is the shorter recovery time and reduced pain compared to traditional open surgery. Patients can typically return home the same day of surgery and begin rehabilitation soon after. Recovery times vary depending on the specific procedure performed, but most patients experience significant improvement in knee function within a few weeks to a few months. Knee arthroscopy is an effective option for treating many knee injuries and conditions, helping patients return to daily activities or sports with minimal downtime.