Knee pain can bring your life to a screeching halt, making simple tasks like walking up stairs or playing with your kids feel impossible. Whether you are dealing with a sudden sports injury or a dull, chronic ache, finding the right solution starts with understanding the problem. At City Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine, we specialize in diagnosing and treating complex knee conditions to get you back on your feet.
Are you worried that surgery is your only option? Or perhaps you are unsure if your pain is serious enough to see a doctor? These are common concerns we hear every day at our West Orange, New Jersey office. The good news is that many knee issues can be managed with conservative care, and we are here to guide you through every step of the process.
In this guide, we will break down the causes of knee discomfort, how we evaluate injuries, and the treatment paths available to you. If you are looking for a skilled knee surgeon West Orange NJ residents trust, our team is ready to help you regain your mobility and quality of life.
Common Causes of Knee Pain
Your knee is a complex joint that bears a lot of weight, making it susceptible to various injuries and conditions. Understanding what might be causing your discomfort is the first step toward recovery.
Sports Injuries and Trauma
Athletes often face sudden knee issues due to the high demands of their sports. We frequently treat sports injuries such as ACL tears, meniscus tears, and other ligament injuries. These often happen during pivoting movements or sudden impacts. If you are an active individual, proper diagnosis is critical to ensure you can return to your sport safely.
Degenerative Conditions
Not all knee pain is caused by an accident. Degenerative joint disease and osteoarthritis are common culprits, especially as we age. These conditions involve the gradual wearing down of the joint, leading to chronic knee pain and functional problems. While this can be frustrating, managing these conditions effectively can significantly improve your daily comfort.
Comprehensive Evaluation and Diagnosis
When you visit our West Orange office, we don’t just look at your knee; we look at the whole picture. Our patient-centered care model begins with listening to your concerns, goals, and lifestyle. We want to know how your knee pain impacts your specific routine.
Our evaluation process includes:
- Complete Diagnostic Assessment: We perform a thorough physical examination to pinpoint the source of pain.
- Review of Imaging: We analyze X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans to see exactly what is happening inside the joint.
- Clear Explanation: We believe in educating our patients. We will explain your condition in understandable language so you can make informed decisions.
Treatment Options: From Conservative Care to Surgery
We believe in a customized approach. Treatment plans are created collaboratively with you, focusing on your specific recovery goals.
Non-Surgical Treatments
Surgery isn’t always the first answer. In fact, many knee conditions can be effectively managed non-surgically. We offer detailed discussions of non-surgical treatment options, which may include:
- Physical Therapy: Guided exercises to restore strength and flexibility are often a cornerstone of recovery.
- Injections and Medications: These can help manage inflammation and pain, allowing you to participate more fully in rehabilitation.
- Activity Modification: We provide guidance on how to stay active while protecting your knee.
Surgical Solutions
If conservative treatments haven’t worked, or if your injury requires it for the best outcome, surgery may be recommended. As a premier destination for orthopedic care, we specialize in surgical treatments for a wide range of knee problems.
Our team includes Dr. Babatunde, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with special expertise in knee surgery and sports medicine. He is known for his exceptional surgical skills and warm bedside manner, ensuring you feel comfortable and confident throughout your procedure. Whether you need a ligament repair or are considering joint replacement options, we explain all surgical options and possible outcomes clearly.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
The treatment journey doesn’t end when you leave the operating room or the clinic. Recovery is a vital phase, and we are with you every step of the way.
We provide comprehensive physical therapy instructions, including guided recovery protocols specific to your condition. You will receive:
- Exercise Progressions: Clear steps for rehabilitation exercises to do at home or with a therapist.
- Pain Management Strategies: Instructions on medication timing, icing, and heating to keep you comfortable.
- Return-to-Activity Guidelines: Realistic timelines for when you can return to work or sports.
Our goal is to help you return to your normal routine activities as safely and quickly as possible.
Why Choose City Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine in West Orange?
Finding the right provider is about more than just medical skills; it’s about trust. At City Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine, our core values of Quality, Integrity, and Compassion guide everything we do.
Patients consistently report excellent surgical results and appreciate the kindness and professionalism of our staff. We strive to exceed your expectations for comfort and convenience. With our office conveniently located in West Orange, getting top-tier care from a leading knee surgeon West Orange NJ has never been easier.
If you have been treated elsewhere and want a second opinion, we are happy to review your outside medical records and imaging to provide guidance for informed decision-making.
Take the First Step Toward Relief
You don’t have to live with knee pain forever. Whether it’s a nagging ache or a major injury, our team is ready to provide the evidence-based care you deserve. We will work with you to create a plan that fits your life and gets you moving again.
Ready to schedule your evaluation? Click here to book an appointment at our West Orange, Paramus, East Rutherford, or Manhattan office today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need a referral to see a knee specialist? A: We accept both self-referrals and referrals from other healthcare providers. You can call any of our offices directly to schedule an appointment. If you do have a referral from your primary care physician, please bring it with you.
Q: What should I bring to my first appointment for knee pain? A: Please bring your insurance card, photo ID, a list of current medications, and any prior medical records or imaging (like X-rays or MRIs). Wearing comfortable clothing that allows easy access to your knee is also recommended.
Q: Will I definitely need surgery for my knee injury? A: Not necessarily. We evaluate each patient individually. Many conditions can be effectively managed with non-surgical treatments like physical therapy or injections. Surgery is typically recommended only when conservative treatment hasn’t worked or the condition requires it for optimal outcomes.
Q: How long does recovery take after knee treatment? A: Recovery time varies depending on your specific condition and the treatment plan. During your appointment, we will discuss realistic timelines for your situation. We also provide detailed post-operative instructions to help optimize your healing.
Q: Can I get a second opinion on my knee diagnosis? A: Yes, we provide comprehensive second opinion services. We recommend sending your medical records and prior imaging to our office for review before your appointment so our physicians can provide informed recommendations.
Q: Do you treat sports-related knee injuries? A: Yes, we specialize in sports medicine and work with athletes at all levels. We treat common sports injuries like ACL and meniscus tears and provide guidance on returning to your sport safely.
