Orthopedic Knee Evaluation: What is Involved?
Initially, you will see your family doctor about your knee problems. He or she will probably give you a referral to an orthopedic surgeon. When you see the orthopedic surgeon, three steps will be taken. You will give your medical history. You will receive a physical examination. Some tests will be ordered.
Your orthopedic surgeon will ask you about both your specific knee problems and your general health when conducting your medical history.
He or she will focus mostly on your knees and your legs during the physical examination. It will be necessary to determine the stability and strength of your knee as well as the extent of your ROM (range of motion). Also, the orthopedic surgeon will want to check your legs alignment.
The tests that will be ordered for you will probably include blood tests that will help determine the presence of arthritis. Additionally, your orthopedic surgeon will order x-rays and perhaps an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging). The latter will provide more in-depth information about the soft tissues of your knee. The type of images taken by the MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) differ from x-rays in that they are gathered using sound waves.
Once all of your test results have come back, you will meet with the orthopedic surgeon to discuss the results and decide on a course of action. Your options will probably include medication, physical therapy, and a variety of surgical options. Arthroscopy will, no doubt, be explained to you at this time.
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Your orthopedic surgeon will talk to you about the risks involved in arthroscopy - both those that may be encountered during the surgery and afterwards.
Your orthopedic surgeon will be more likely to recommend arthroscopy for you if you have experienced any of the following: Problems with the performance of your knee, such as giving way or catching. Persistent swelling and pain. Exhaustion of options, such as knee braces, medications, and physical therapy. Or if you just generally dont feel safe performing your ADL (activities of daily living) because of an unreliable knee, you may be a good candidate for arthroscopy.
Overall, arthroscopy is a safe and successful procedure that is appropriate for a broad range of people. Patients generally range in age from 20-60; however, this surgery has been successfully used on patients under the age of ten and on those over the age of eighty.
Preparing Yourself for Arthroscopy
Once your decision is made, your orthopedic surgeon will send you back to your physician for a complete physical. By doing this, you will be sure that everything is in good working order, and you will know about anything that may cause complications before your surgery.
Your doctor may do more tests at the request of the orthopedic surgeon. Sometimes a cardiogram is done. Sometimes more blood work is called for. In general, anything that will clarify your general condition so that your treatment can be exactly right for you, will be done.
If you are taking any over-the-counter products such as medications or supplements, remember to let your doctor and your orthopedic surgeon know about it. If you need to discontinue any of these products before surgery, they will inform you.
Initially, you will see your family doctor about your knee problems. He or she will probably give you a referral to an orthopedic surgeon. When you see the orthopedic surgeon, three steps will be taken. You will give your medical history. You will receive a physical examination. Some tests will be ordered.
Your orthopedic surgeon will ask you about both your specific knee problems and your general health when conducting your medical history.
He or she will focus mostly on your knees and your legs during the physical examination. It will be necessary to determine the stability and strength of your knee as well as the extent of your ROM (range of motion). Also, the orthopedic surgeon will want to check your legs alignment.
The tests that will be ordered for you will probably include blood tests that will help determine the presence of arthritis. Additionally, your orthopedic surgeon will order x-rays and perhaps an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging). The latter will provide more in-depth information about the soft tissues of your knee. The type of images taken by the MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) differ from x-rays in that they are gathered using sound waves.
Once all of your test results have come back, you will meet with the orthopedic surgeon to discuss the results and decide on a course of action. Your options will probably include medication, physical therapy, and a variety of surgical options. Arthroscopy will, no doubt, be explained to you at this time.
Click here for more on sports injuries .
Your orthopedic surgeon will talk to you about the risks involved in arthroscopy - both those that may be encountered during the surgery and afterwards.
Your orthopedic surgeon will be more likely to recommend arthroscopy for you if you have experienced any of the following: Problems with the performance of your knee, such as giving way or catching. Persistent swelling and pain. Exhaustion of options, such as knee braces, medications, and physical therapy. Or if you just generally dont feel safe performing your ADL (activities of daily living) because of an unreliable knee, you may be a good candidate for arthroscopy.
Overall, arthroscopy is a safe and successful procedure that is appropriate for a broad range of people. Patients generally range in age from 20-60; however, this surgery has been successfully used on patients under the age of ten and on those over the age of eighty.
Preparing Yourself for Arthroscopy
Once your decision is made, your orthopedic surgeon will send you back to your physician for a complete physical. By doing this, you will be sure that everything is in good working order, and you will know about anything that may cause complications before your surgery.
Your doctor may do more tests at the request of the orthopedic surgeon. Sometimes a cardiogram is done. Sometimes more blood work is called for. In general, anything that will clarify your general condition so that your treatment can be exactly right for you, will be done.
If you are taking any over-the-counter products such as medications or supplements, remember to let your doctor and your orthopedic surgeon know about it. If you need to discontinue any of these products before surgery, they will inform you.
About the Author:
Dr. Edelson is a Board Certified Orthopaedic Surgeon specializing in sports medicine. His clinic, Sports Medicine Oregon, focuses on athletes of all ages. Click here to learn more about Dr. Edelson, Portland SLAP Tear Repairs and Portland Shoulder Injuries.
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