Patella Subluxation: What is it?

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Article featured on Nationwide Children’s

Subluxation means partial dislocation of a bone. Kneecap (patellar) subluxation means the kneecap has briefly slid out of its normal place in the groove at the center of the bottom end of the thigh bone.

New Mexico Orthopaedics is a multi-disciplinary orthopedic clinic located in Albuquerque New Mexico. We have multiple physical therapy clinics located throughout the Albuquerque metro area.

New Mexico Orthopaedics offers a full spectrum of services related to orthopedic care and our expertise ranges from acute conditions such as sports injuries and fractures to prolonged, chronic care diagnoses, including total joint replacement and spinal disorders.

Because our team of highly-trained physicians specialize in various aspects of the musculoskeletal system, our practice has the capacity to treat any orthopedic condition, and offer related support services, such as physical therapy, WorkLink and much more.

If you need orthopedic care in Albuquerque New Mexico contact New Mexico Orthopaedics at 505-724-4300.

Possible Causes & Treatment of Patella Alta

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Article featured on Atlas Pain Specialists

You may be wondering , what are some causes and treatment of patella alta? Patella alta, also known as ‘high-riding patella,’ is a knee condition characterized by an abnormally high position of the patella or kneecap in relation to the femur, the thigh bone. This condition may lead to discomfort, knee pain, instability, and an increased risk of patellar dislocation or patellar subluxation.

A full understanding of patella alta requires a look at its potential causes, symptoms, diagnosis methods, and treatment options.

Possible Causes of Patella Alta

Patella alta is a condition that can result from various causes, both genetic and acquired. Here are some possible causes of this condition:

  1. Genetic Predisposition: Patella alta can be congenital, meaning a person is born with it. In these cases, the individual’s patellar tendon, which anchors the kneecap to the shinbone, is naturally longer than average, causing the kneecap to sit higher than usual.
  2. Growth Abnormalities: In children and adolescents, damage to the growth plate can cause the patellar tendon to grow longer than the femur, leading to patella alta. This is often associated with conditions that affect growth plates, such as Osgood-Schlatter disease and Sinding-Larsen-Johansson syndrome.
  3. Trauma or Injury: Any form of trauma to the knee that results in inflammation or damage can potentially lead to patella alta. This could include sports injuries, accidents, or falls that affect the knee region.
  4. Surgical Complications: Patella alta can also be an unintended consequence of knee surgeries. In particular, surgeries involving the patellar tendon, such as anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction, may inadvertently lead to an elongation of the tendon, causing the kneecap to ride higher than normal.
  5. Chronic Conditions: Certain chronic conditions, including patellar tendinitis or jumper’s knee, can cause the patellar tendon to elongate over time. This progressive elongation can eventually lead to patella alta.
  6. Certain Medical Procedures: Some medical procedures, such as casting or bracing of the knee for extended periods, may lead to a temporary or even permanent elongation of the patellar tendon, which could result in patella alta.

In some cases, the exact cause of patella alta may remain unknown. It’s also possible for multiple factors to contribute to the development of this condition.

Diagnosing Patella Alta

Diagnosing patella alta involves assessing the patient’s medical history, conducting a physical examination, and using diagnostic imaging. The healthcare provider collects information about previous knee injuries, surgeries, and existing conditions while noting symptoms such as knee pain, instability, or recurring patellar dislocation. 

During the physical examination, the doctor evaluates the range of motion and stability and performs specific tests to assess the position and movement of the patella. Measurement ratios and indices like the Insall-Salvati ratio, the Caton-Deschamps index, and the Blackburne-Peel ratio are commonly employed to evaluate the patella position.

These measurements are obtained through X-ray imaging or specialized radiographic views of the knee. X-rays, MRI, or CT scans provide detailed images of the knee joint, enabling visualization of patellar alignment and any associated abnormalities. Dynamic imaging techniques such as fluoroscopy or specialized MRI sequences may assess patellar tracking during knee movements.

Following the diagnosis of the patella alta, the healthcare provider develops an appropriate treatment plan based on severity and individual needs. Accurate diagnosis is vital for effective treatment, so it is advised to consult a qualified healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation and personalized guidance toward suitable management options.

Treatment of Patella Alta

The treatment of patella alta typically depends on the severity of the symptoms and the degree of the patella’s displacement. Here are the possible treatment options:

  • Physical Therapy
  • Bracing and Taping
  • NSAIDs
  • Surgery
  • Lifestyle Modification

Physical Therapy

This is often the first line of treatment for patella alta, particularly for mild cases. Therapy exercises aim to strengthen the quadriceps muscle, which helps stabilize the kneecap and improves the flexibility and strength of the knee joint.

Bracing and Taping

Sometimes, a doctor might recommend wearing a knee or patellar stabilizing brace. These devices help hold the kneecap in a more normal position, which can help reduce discomfort and improve stability. Kinesiology taping techniques might also be used to offer support to the patella.

Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

Medications can manage pain and inflammation associated with patella alta. This is typically an adjunct to other treatment modalities, such as physical therapy.

Surgery

For severe cases of patella alta, especially when conservative treatments have failed, surgery might be considered. The goal of surgery is to lower the position of the kneecap by shortening the patellar tendon. Surgical techniques include tibial tubercle osteotomy, where a section of bone where the patellar tendon attaches is moved downwards, and patellar tendon grafting, which involves using a graft to shorten the tendon artificially.

Weight Management

If the patient is overweight, weight loss can help by reducing pressure on the knees and alleviating the symptoms of patella alta.

Lifestyle Modification

Avoiding activities that strain the knee or incorporating exercises that strengthen the muscles around the knee can help manage the symptoms and prevent the worsening of the condition.

The treatment choice should be based on the individual’s specific symptoms, the extent of the patella alta, and the person’s overall health and lifestyle. Regular follow-ups with a healthcare provider are essential to monitor progress and adjust the treatment plan. 

Please note that this information is a general guide, and one should always consult with a healthcare provider for the most appropriate treatment plan for their specific condition.

Conclusion

Patella alta is a condition that requires proper medical attention, as it can potentially lead to more severe knee problems if left untreated. If you suspect that you or someone you know may have this condition, it is recommended to seek medical advice promptly. As with many health conditions, early diagnosis and treatment of patella alta can lead to more positive outcomes.

New Mexico Orthopaedics is a multi-disciplinary orthopedic clinic located in Albuquerque New Mexico. We have multiple physical therapy clinics located throughout the Albuquerque metro area.

New Mexico Orthopaedics offers a full spectrum of services related to orthopedic care and our expertise ranges from acute conditions such as sports injuries and fractures to prolonged, chronic care diagnoses, including total joint replacement and spinal disorders.

Because our team of highly-trained physicians specialize in various aspects of the musculoskeletal system, our practice has the capacity to treat any orthopedic condition, and offer related support services, such as physical therapy, WorkLink and much more.

If you need orthopedic care in Albuquerque New Mexico contact New Mexico Orthopaedics at 505-724-4300.

Osgood-Schlatter Disease in Children

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Article featured on Nationwide Children’s

What Is Osgood-Schlatter Disease In Children?

Osgood-Schlatter disease is an overuse condition. It’s when the tendon at the front of a knee becomes injured and inflamed. This tendon connects the thigh muscles to the knee and shin bone. It’s also known as the patellar tendon.

What Causes Osgood-Schlatter Disease In A Child?

Osgood-Schlatter disease is caused by the constant pulling of the tendon in the knee. It’s seen in growing children and teens. This is an age where the bones are typically growing faster than the muscles and tendons. As a result, the muscles and tendons tend to become tight.

Which Children Are At Risk For Osgood-Schlatter Disease?

Osgood-Schlatter disease is common in young athletes who play games or sports that involve running, jumping, or going up and down stairs. These include football, soccer, basketball, gymnastics, or ballet. It most often affects children ages 9 to 14 who have undergone a rapid growth spurt.

What Are The Symptoms Of Osgood-Schlatter Disease In A Child?

In some cases, both knees will have symptoms. One knee may have more symptoms than the other. The following are common symptoms of Osgood-Schlatter disease. Symptoms can occur a bit differently in each child. Symptoms may include:

  • Pain and tenderness below the knee
  • Swelling below the knee
  • Tight muscles in the front or back of the thigh
  • Limping (may get worse following jumping activities)

These symptoms may seem like other health problems of the knee. See your child’s healthcare provider for a diagnosis.

How Is Osgood-Schlatter Disease Diagnosed In A Child?

Your child’s healthcare provider can diagnose Osgood-Schlatter disease with a complete health history and physical exam of your child’s knee. Your child may also need to have an X-ray of the affected knee.

How Is Osgood-Schlatter Disease Treated In A Child?

Treatment will depend on your child’s symptoms, age, and general health. It will also depend on how severe the condition is.

The goal of treatment is to control your child’s knee pain and prevent the condition from getting worse. Treatment may include:

  • RICE (rest, ice, compression, and elevation)
  • Medicines such as anti-inflammatories for discomfort and swelling
  • Elastic wrap, padding, or a neoprene sleeve around the knee
  • Limits on activity
  • Physical therapy to help stretch and strengthen the thigh and leg muscles

Osgood-Schlatter disease often goes away over time. In rare cases, your child may need surgery.

How Can I Help Prevent Osgood-Schlatter Disease In My Child?

Your child can develop Osgood-Schlatter disease again. To prevent that from happening, have your child:

  • Do exercises to strengthen the thigh and leg muscles. Your child’s healthcare provider may recommend certain exercises or physical therapy.
  • Ice the knee area after being active. It can ease pain and swelling. To make an ice pack, put ice cubes in a plastic bag that seals at the top. Wrap the bag in a clean, thin towel or cloth. Never put ice or an ice pack directly on the skin.

Key Points About Osgood-Schlatter Disease In Children

  • Osgood-Schlatter disease is an overuse condition that affects the tendons in the knee.
  • Growing children who are active in sports are most at risk for this disease. It’s common in children who participate in football, soccer, basketball, gymnastics, or ballet.
  • Pain and swelling in the knee area are the main symptoms.
  • Treatment includes RICE (rest, ice, compression, and elevation) of the affected knee.
  • Your child may also have to limit certain activities, such as running.

Next Steps

Tips to help you get the most from a visit to your child’s healthcare provider:

  • Know the reason for the visit and what you want to happen.
  • Before your visit, write down questions you want answered.
  • At the visit, write down the name of a new diagnosis, and any new medicines, treatments, or tests. Also write down any new instructions your provider gives you for your child.
  • Know why a new medicine or treatment is prescribed and how it will help your child. Also know what the side effects are.
  • Ask if your child’s condition can be treated in other ways.
  • Know why a test or procedure is recommended and what the results could mean.
  • Know what to expect if your child does not take the medicine or have the test or procedure.
  • If your child has a follow-up appointment, write down the date, time, and purpose for that visit.
  • Know how you can contact your child’s healthcare provider after office hours. This is important if your child becomes ill and you have questions or need advice.

New Mexico Orthopaedics is a multi-disciplinary orthopedic clinic located in Albuquerque New Mexico. We have multiple physical therapy clinics located throughout the Albuquerque metro area.

New Mexico Orthopaedics offers a full spectrum of services related to orthopedic care and our expertise ranges from acute conditions such as sports injuries and fractures to prolonged, chronic care diagnoses, including total joint replacement and spinal disorders.

Because our team of highly-trained physicians specialize in various aspects of the musculoskeletal system, our practice has the capacity to treat any orthopedic condition, and offer related support services, such as physical therapy, WorkLink and much more.

If you need orthopedic care in Albuquerque New Mexico contact New Mexico Orthopaedics at 505-724-4300.

Torn MCL Average Recovery Time

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Article featured on Summit Orthopedics

MCL stands for medial collateral ligament. It’s a ligament on the inside of the knee. Like all ligaments, the MCL is a strong, tough band of tissue that connects one bone to another bone. Physical Therapist, Josh Feeney talks about the recovery time for a MCL tear and whether surgery is needed.

What is an MCL tear?

Although an MCL tear can happen to anyone, athletes are most at risk. It can happen when an athlete suddenly twists or changes direction. It can also happen when something hits the athlete’s knee. Sports like football, basketball, rugby, volleyball, and skiing can result in MCL tears. MCL tears are the most common knee ligament injury.

MCL tears are classified as “partial” or “complete.” In a partial MCL tear, the ligament has torn partway, but some of the ligament’s fibers remain attached. In a complete tear, the ligament has snapped, fully separating into two pieces.

What are the symptoms of an MCL tear?

Symptoms of an MCL tear include:

  • Pain and tenderness in the knee
  • Stiffness and swelling in the knee
  • A feeling of instability, as if your knee might give out

What is a torn MCL treatment and recovery time?

If you suspect you’ve torn or damaged your MCL, the first thing to do is to get it evaluated by an orthopedic specialist. Your provider will conduct a physical exam and may order imaging tests, like an X-ray, ultrasound, or MRI, to confirm the diagnosis.

Surgery is not always required, and in fact, many people recover from a torn MCL with conservative measures. Treatment options for a torn MCL include:

  • RICE, which stands for rest, ice, compression, and elevation, is a cornerstone of conservative care for an MCL injury.
  • Devices to help immobilize your knee, like a knee brace, and devices to keep your weight off the knee, like crutches. Whether you need to use these depends on how severe your injury is, so talk with your provider for specific recommendations.
  • Anti-inflammatory medicines, like ibuprofen (Advil) or naproxen (Aleve) to help with the swelling and inflammation after the injury.
  • Physical therapy — anyone can benefit from physical therapy after a knee injury, including an MCL tear. If you’re an athlete who wants to heal fully after an MCL tear and return to your full strength in your sport, physical therapy is essential. It can make the difference between long-term stiffness or instability and a full return to your former strength, agility, and flexibility.

“Because MCL tears can take some time to heal, the flexibility and strength of the knee may begin to decrease. This is when PT can play a larger part in not only giving you ways to combat this, but also to identify what areas may be weak or tight,” said physical therapist Josh Feeney, DPT, OCS, CGFI.

“Many times, we think of an MCL as just needing to heal and then we return to sport or activity. But what happens in those weeks of recovery when you aren’t able to be as active?”

MCL tear recovery time varies depending on how severe the tear is and whether or not you had surgery to repair the tear:

  • Minor MCL tears can heal in one to three weeks.
  • More severe MCL tears can take six weeks to heal, and some can take longer.
  • If you have MCL surgery, you can expect to need eight to 16 weeks to heal completely.

“You want your knee to be strong and flexible when your MCL heals, so you can return back to activity without as much fear of reinjury,” Feeney said. “PT can significantly improve this outcome.” Your specific recovery time will depend on your unique injury.

New Mexico Orthopaedics is a multi-disciplinary orthopedic clinic located in Albuquerque New Mexico. We have multiple physical therapy clinics located throughout the Albuquerque metro area.

New Mexico Orthopaedics offers a full spectrum of services related to orthopedic care and our expertise ranges from acute conditions such as sports injuries and fractures to prolonged, chronic care diagnoses, including total joint replacement and spinal disorders.

Because our team of highly-trained physicians specialize in various aspects of the musculoskeletal system, our practice has the capacity to treat any orthopedic condition, and offer related support services, such as physical therapy, WorkLink and much more.

If you need orthopedic care in Albuquerque New Mexico contact New Mexico Orthopaedics at 505-724-4300.

Can Surgery Help Your Knee Arthritis?

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Article featured on Arkansas Surgical Hospital

Knee arthritis is a common condition that typically leads to pain, stiffness, and swelling in the knee joint. If your knee arthritis has caused substantial damage to the cartilage or bone, you may need surgery. An orthopedic surgeon can take out the damaged portions of the knee joint, remove bone spurs, and repair torn ligaments.

What Causes Knee Arthritis?

Knee arthritis is caused by the breakdown of cartilage in the knee joint. Cartilage damage can be caused by injury or wear and tear from aging, also known as osteoarthritis. It can also result from diseases that cause painful swelling in your joints, such as rheumatoid arthritis or psoriatic arthritis.

When the cartilage in your knee breaks down, it leaves the bones in the joint unprotected. This can result in swelling, pain, and stiffness in your knee. Your doctor may recommend surgery if you have severe symptoms that haven’t responded well to other treatments.

Symptoms of Knee Arthritis

The symptoms of knee arthritis can vary from person to person, but often include:

  • Swelling and stiffness in the knee joint
  • Difficulty moving the knee
  • Pain that gets worse with activity
  • A clicking or grinding sound when you move your knee

Pain from knee arthritis can be felt in different areas of your knee, depending on where your joint is affected. Treatment for knee arthritis depends on the extent and location of the damage to your cartilage.

Non-Surgical Treatments for Knee Arthritis

There are a number of non-surgical treatments for knee arthritis. These include:

  • Anti-inflammatory medications
  • Physical therapy
  • Ice
  • Injections
  • Platelet-rich plasma therapy

Discuss your options with your doctor to decide which treatment for knee arthritis is best for your situation.

Surgery for Knee Arthritis

While non-surgical treatments may improve function and provide pain relief in some cases of knee arthritis, surgery is sometimes necessary.

There are three main types of surgery for knee arthritis:

  • Total knee replacement surgery replaces a severely damaged joint with an artificial implant that can restore function and improve mobility.
  • Resurfacing involves removing part of a damaged bone to replace it with an artificial implant.
  • Debridement removes debris or bits of cartilage that may have built up inside the knee joint.

Your surgeon will determine which procedure is best for reducing your symptoms and improving your knee function. The specific procedure you undergo will depend on the severity of your arthritis and where the damage is located in your knee.

During a surgery for knee arthritis, your surgeon will make an incision over or near the site of the damage to perform any necessary repairs or removal of inflamed tissue. In some cases, your surgeon may use arthroscopic equipment to view and fix the damage in your knee.

Recovering from Surgery for Knee Arthritis

Depending on your surgeon’s recommendation and how bad your arthritis is, you may require six weeks or more off work after a major knee surgery. How long you’ll need to use crutches or a walker/cane depends on the severity of the damage to your knee and any other medical concerns you have that might affect your recovery.

Rehabilitation after knee surgery typically lasts between three to six months. It includes physical therapy and exercise to get you back to your previous levels of strength and mobility. If you don’t stick with rehabilitation, there’s a chance your pain could come back, so it’s important to follow all of your surgeon’s instructions as you recover.

Do You Need Surgery for Knee Arthritis?

Severe knee pain can make simple tasks difficult to complete and keep you from doing things you enjoy. If you’re living with knee arthritis, it might be time to call your doctor and see the best treatment options for you.

New Mexico Orthopaedics is a multi-disciplinary orthopedic clinic located in Albuquerque New Mexico. We have multiple physical therapy clinics located throughout the Albuquerque metro area.

New Mexico Orthopaedics offers a full spectrum of services related to orthopedic care and our expertise ranges from acute conditions such as sports injuries and fractures to prolonged, chronic care diagnoses, including total joint replacement and spinal disorders.

Because our team of highly-trained physicians specialize in various aspects of the musculoskeletal system, our practice has the capacity to treat any orthopedic condition, and offer related support services, such as physical therapy, WorkLink and much more.

If you need orthopedic care in Albuquerque New Mexico contact New Mexico Orthopaedics at 505-724-4300.

What Are the Red Flags for Knee Pain

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New Mexico Orthopaedics is a multi-disciplinary orthopedic clinic located in Albuquerque New Mexico. We have multiple physical therapy clinics located throughout the Albuquerque metro area.

New Mexico Orthopaedics offers a full spectrum of services related to orthopedic care and our expertise ranges from acute conditions such as sports injuries and fractures to prolonged, chronic care diagnoses, including total joint replacement and spinal disorders.

Because our team of highly-trained physicians specialize in various aspects of the musculoskeletal system, our practice has the capacity to treat any orthopedic condition, and offer related support services, such as physical therapy, WorkLink and much more.

If you need orthopedic care in Albuquerque New Mexico contact New Mexico Orthopaedics at 505-724-4300.

Ways to Take Care of Your Knees

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New Mexico Orthopaedics is a multi-disciplinary orthopedic clinic located in Albuquerque New Mexico. We have multiple physical therapy clinics located throughout the Albuquerque metro area.

New Mexico Orthopaedics offers a full spectrum of services related to orthopedic care and our expertise ranges from acute conditions such as sports injuries and fractures to prolonged, chronic care diagnoses, including total joint replacement and spinal disorders.

Because our team of highly-trained physicians specialize in various aspects of the musculoskeletal system, our practice has the capacity to treat any orthopedic condition, and offer related support services, such as physical therapy, WorkLink and much more.

If you need orthopedic care in Albuquerque New Mexico contact New Mexico Orthopaedics at 505-724-4300.

4 Things to Know About Meniscus Repair

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Article featured on Noyes Knee Institute

Injuries to the meniscus are common, especially among athletes and individuals involved in physical activities. Pain, inflammation, and restricted mobility can result from torn or injured meniscus. Here are four things to know about meniscus repair:

1. The Importance of Early Diagnosis

Early diagnosis of a meniscus tear results in prompt and effective treatment. If left untreated, meniscus tears can worsen over time, leading to more significant pain and potential damage to the knee joint. As soon as symptoms like knee pain, swelling, and limited range of motion arise, consult an orthopedic knee surgeon for a thorough evaluation.

An early diagnosis allows the knee surgeon to recommend appropriate treatment options, including conservative measures like rest, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications. In some cases, meniscus repair surgery may be the best course of action to restore knee function.

2. Meniscus Repair Surgery

Orthopedic knee surgeons perform meniscus repair surgery to mend the torn meniscus tissue and restore knee stability. The surgery can be done through minimally invasive arthroscopic techniques involving small incisions and a tiny camera called an arthroscope that guides the surgeon’s instruments.

During the surgery, the surgeon will carefully suture the torn edges of the meniscus together. This allows the tissue to heal and regain its strength. The success of meniscus repair largely depends on the type and location of the tear, as well as the patient’s age and overall knee health.

3. Rehabilitation and Recovery

Following meniscus repair surgery, a comprehensive rehabilitation program is recommended to promote healing and regain knee function. Orthopedic surgeons work closely with physical therapists to design a personalized rehabilitation plan for each patient.

Rehabilitation typically involves exercises to improve knee strength, flexibility, and stability. Patients are advised to diligently follow their physical therapy regimen and avoid activities that may strain the healing meniscus excessively. The recovery period after meniscus repair surgery varies from patient to patient. While some individuals may resume light activities within a few weeks, others may require several months to recover fully and return to more vigorous activities.

4. Complication Awareness

If the medial meniscus has been destroyed, the only treatment is to remove the damaged portions and repair the remaining area. As with any surgical procedure, meniscus repair surgery carries some risks and potential complications. Infection, blood clots, and adverse reactions to anesthesia are possible but rare. Patients are encouraged to discuss any concerns or medical conditions with their orthopedic knee surgeon before the procedure.

In some cases, meniscus tears may be too severe or located in a region with limited blood supply, making repair surgery unfeasible. The surgeon may opt for a meniscectomy, a procedure to trim and remove the damaged portion of the meniscus. While a meniscectomy provides symptom relief, it may also increase the risk of early-onset osteoarthritis in the knee joint.

New Mexico Orthopaedics is a multi-disciplinary orthopedic clinic located in Albuquerque New Mexico. We have multiple physical therapy clinics located throughout the Albuquerque metro area.

New Mexico Orthopaedics offers a full spectrum of services related to orthopedic care and our expertise ranges from acute conditions such as sports injuries and fractures to prolonged, chronic care diagnoses, including total joint replacement and spinal disorders.

Because our team of highly-trained physicians specialize in various aspects of the musculoskeletal system, our practice has the capacity to treat any orthopedic condition, and offer related support services, such as physical therapy, WorkLink and much more.

If you need orthopedic care in Albuquerque New Mexico contact New Mexico Orthopaedics at 505-724-4300.

What is Knock Knees?

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Genu valgum (knock-knees) is a common lower leg abnormality that is usually seen in the toddler, preschool and early school age child. In genu valgum, the lower extremities turn inward, causing the appearance of the knees to be touching while the ankles remain apart. Knock knees usually is first seen in late toddlerhood. Often parents may have noticed the knees bowing out (genu varum) when the child first started walking but by age 3, the child has developed knock knees. Genu valgum is most severe by age 3 but then usually resolves on its own by age 7-8. Knock knees are slightly more common in girls than boys.

Types of Knock Knees (Genu Valgum)

  • Physiologic (normal growth and development) variant (MOST COMMON)
  • Pathologic
    • Rickets
    • Previous metaphyseal (shaft) fracture of the proximal tibia or sometimes called “Cozen’s Phenomenon”
    • Multiple epiphyseal dysplasia (bone and cartilage disorder affecting ends of leg bones)

Clinical Findings

While standing, the child’s knees will touch or be closer together then the ankles which are further apart.

Diagnostic Studies

No x-rays or other imaging studies are done to diagnosis physiologic genu valgum.

What Is the Treatment for Knocks Knees (Genu Valgum)?

No special type of brace, shoes, or other orthotic devices has been found to improve or speed up the resolution of knock-knees. The only treatment for genu valgum is time and normal growth and development.

Majority of children with genu valgum resolve on their own but if the knock-knees increase in severity or does not improve by age 10, then further evaluation and testing may be warranted.

New Mexico Orthopaedics is a multi-disciplinary orthopedic clinic located in Albuquerque New Mexico. We have multiple physical therapy clinics located throughout the Albuquerque metro area.

New Mexico Orthopaedics offers a full spectrum of services related to orthopedic care and our expertise ranges from acute conditions such as sports injuries and fractures to prolonged, chronic care diagnoses, including total joint replacement and spinal disorders.

Because our team of highly-trained physicians specialize in various aspects of the musculoskeletal system, our practice has the capacity to treat any orthopedic condition, and offer related support services, such as physical therapy, WorkLink and much more.

If you need orthopedic care in Albuquerque New Mexico contact New Mexico Orthopaedics at 505-724-4300.

When to Seek Treatment for Common ACL Tears

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Article featured on The Noyes Knee Institute

If you experience pain around your knee area, it is advisable to contact an orthopedic knee surgeon as soon as possible. The pain may stem from a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). Such situations may call for surgery to prevent further damage to your knee joint.

The ACL is one of four ligaments in your knee. It is located behind the patella (kneecap) and connects the thigh bone to the shin bone. The posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), medial collateral ligament (MCL), and lateral collateral ligament (LCL) are the other three ligaments.

ACL Tear Symptoms

ACL stabilizes the knee when you rotate and can get torn when you make sudden stops or changes in direction. Injuries can also result from high-impact sports and maneuvers such as jumping and landing. A torn ACL has many signs, depending on the severity of the injury. Popular symptoms include:

1. Popping Sounds

A loud popping sound is the most common symptom of a torn anterior cruciate ligament. You will hear the popping sound at the moment of injury. Silent pops may also occur when you try to stand or move the knee joint. ACL tears can also result in a painful grinding feeling of your kneecap and bones.

2. Pain and Swelling

A popping sound may indicate other issues but is often a result of torn ACL, especially when accompanied by pain and swelling. The pain is severe at the moment of injury and becomes sharper when you try to get up or put pressure on the knee. In most cases, the pain is quickly accompanied by inflammation/swelling of the knee area.

3. Inability to Bear Weight

You will barely be able to stand a few minutes after an ACL tear. The anterior cruciate ligament is responsible for stabilizing your knee when you move or change directions. Tears in the band of tissue compromise this function, making it difficult to bear your weight or continue with any activity.

4. Lost Range of Motion

ACL tears can result in loss of range of motion, making it impossible to bend, walk, or sprint. Lost range of motion usually stems from excruciating pain. Your knee surgeon will test the range of motion to determine the severity of your pain and injury. Regaining range of motion is also a good sign during ACL tear recovery.

When to Seek Treatment

The knee is one of the most complex joints and harbors ligaments, tendons, tissues, and bones. It is crucial to seek a medical diagnosis immediately if you experience the symptoms of an ACL tear. Proper diagnosis will reveal the scale of injury and determine the best remedy.

Some cases can resolve with rest and rehabilitation. Others require medication, physical therapy, or surgery to remove the damaged parts. Diagnosis involves reviewing your medical history and symptom patterns.

The physician will also conduct a physical examination and may use X-ray scans or request an MRI to assess damage to bones, cartilage, and menisci. After diagnosis, the knee doctor will determine whether you need non-surgical or surgical treatment.

Working With an Orthopedic Knee Surgeon

The first assessment will determine if knee surgery is essential. If such is the recommendation, you should immediately seek an experienced orthopedic knee surgeon. There are various types of surgeries used to treat ACL tears.

New Mexico Orthopaedics is a multi-disciplinary orthopedic clinic located in Albuquerque New Mexico. We have multiple physical therapy clinics located throughout the Albuquerque metro area.

New Mexico Orthopaedics offers a full spectrum of services related to orthopedic care and our expertise ranges from acute conditions such as sports injuries and fractures to prolonged, chronic care diagnoses, including total joint replacement and spinal disorders.

Because our team of highly-trained physicians specialize in various aspects of the musculoskeletal system, our practice has the capacity to treat any orthopedic condition, and offer related support services, such as physical therapy, WorkLink and much more.

If you need orthopedic care in Albuquerque New Mexico contact New Mexico Orthopaedics at 505-724-4300.