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ACL Tears and Meniscus Injuries: What Every Athlete Should Know

by Patient Blogs

ACL Tears and Meniscus Injuries: What Every Athlete Should Know

ACL Tears and Meniscus Injuries: What Every Athlete Should Know

Here’s what I share with my athletic and active patients:

Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Tear

This is a major stabilizer of the knee. ACL tears are most common in pivoting sports — football, basketball, skiing.

Symptoms:

  • A popping sound or sensation at injury
  • Swelling within hours
  • Instability — “giving way” feeling when walking

Treatment:
In younger, active individuals, arthroscopic ACL reconstruction is often recommended. For older or less active patients, non-operative rehab may suffice.

Meniscus Tear

These are cartilage cushions between the thigh bone and shinbone. Tears can occur due to twisting motions or age-related degeneration.

Symptoms:

  • Sharp pain, especially when twisting
  • Locking or catching of the knee
  • Locking or catching of the knee

Treatment:
Not all meniscus tears require surgery. Small tears may heal with rest and therapy. Complex or displaced tears may need arthroscopic repair or trimming.

Recovery Matters:
Whether surgical or conservative, recovery and physiotherapy determine longterm outcomes. I emphasize muscle control, proprioception, and safe returnto- play protocols for all my athlete patients.

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Post Surgery Physiotherapy: Why It’s Just as Important as the Operation

by Patient Blogs

Post Surgery Physiotherapy: Why It’s Just as Important as the Operation

Orthopaedic surgery sets the stage for recovery — but physiotherapy writes the next chapter.

As a surgeon, I’ve seen excellent surgeries fall short due to inadequate post- operative care. Conversely, I’ve witnessed remarkable recoveries when patients fully engage in rehabilitation.

Here’s why physiotherapy is not optional — it's essential:

  • Accelerates Healing
    Early mobilization helps reduce swelling, prevents stiffness, and stimulates circulation — all crucial for recovery.
  • Restores Joint Function
    Without structured exercises, patients risk limited range of motion or strength imbalances. Physiotherapy helps retrain muscles to support the joint properly.
  • Reduces Complications
    From avoiding DVT (blood clots) to minimizing scar tissue, physiotherapy supports your body's healing mechanisms.
  • Boosts Confidence and Safety
    Through supervised training, patients gradually regain confidence in walking, balance, and navigating stairs safely.
  • Supports Long-Term Success
    The durability of a joint replacement depends not just on the implant, but on how well the muscles and ligaments are conditioned to support it.
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Is It Time for a Knee Replacement? 7 Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

by Patient Blogs

Is It Time for a Knee Replacement? 7 Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

Many patients live with joint pain far longer than necessary, hoping it will get better with time. As an orthopaedic surgeon with years of experience treating complex knee conditions, I often meet individuals who say, “I wish I’d come in sooner.”

Here are seven clinical signs I encourage every patient to monitor closely:

  1. Severeand Persistent Pain

Pain that interferes with sleep, daily activity, or doesn’t improve with rest or medication is a major red flag.

  1. MobilityRestrictions

If walking short distances, climbing stairs, or getting out of a chair becomes difficult, your joint may have significant structural damage.

  1. Swellingand Inflammation

Ongoing inflammation that doesn’t respond to conservative treatment could signal joint deterioration or underlying arthritis.

  1. MorningStiffness That Lingers

Mild stiffness is normal. But if your knee stays stiff for over 30 minutes, it may indicate moderate to advanced osteoarthritis.

  1. ReducedQuality of Life

When knee pain limits your participation in work, travel, family time, or sleep, surgical options should be considered.

6. Dependencyon Painkillers

Needing medication frequently to manage pain is not sustainable and could lead to complications.

  1. IneffectiveNon-Surgical Treatments

If physiotherapy, weight loss, bracing, or injections have failed to bring relief, surgery may provide a definitive solution.

Knee replacement is not about age. It’s about quality of life. When joint pain stops you from living fully, it’s time to seek an expert opinion. In my practice, I use a comprehensive approach — including imaging, gait assessment, and conservative options — before recommending surgery.

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