Knee Pain Doctor
Orthopedic Knee Pain Specialist in Spartanburg, Duncan, & Greenville, SC
Knee Pain Doctors in South Carolina
At Carolina Orthopaedics & Neurosurgical Associates, our board-certified orthopedic surgeons excel in diagnosing and treating various knee-related conditions and disorders. Our dedicated team of experts offers advanced solutions for issues concerning the knee, including ACL and meniscal tears, chronic pain stemming from arthritis, or other sports injuries.
The knee, being an intricate joint with numerous dynamic components, is susceptible to various injuries. Some of the most prevalent ones include sprains, ligament tears, fractures, and dislocations.
What are Common Knee Injury Symptoms?
Given the diverse range of potential knee injuries, symptoms often overlap but may vary in severity. Here are some typical symptoms associated with knee injuries:
- Swelling and stiffness
- Redness and warmth upon touch
- Weakness or instability
- Popping or crunching sensations
- Inability to fully extend the knee
Our specialists are equipped to address a multitude of knee conditions and injuries. If your specific condition isn’t listed below, please contact our office, and we’ll gladly assist you.
Our Carolina Orthopaedic & Neurology Associates are dedicated to treating patients with the most effective course of treatment available, working with you and your lifestyle to find the best treatment options.
Common Knee Conditions
Meniscus Tear
Learn more about Meniscus Tears
Knee Arthritis
Knee arthritis is an inflammatory disease that affects many patients. The disease is progressive, which means unpleasant initial symptoms gradually become worse if the disease is not properly treated. An appointment with a Carolina Orthopaedic and Neurosurgical Associates’ (CONA) knee specialist should be made as soon as knee arthritis symptoms present.
Learn more about Knee Arthritis
Knee Bursitis
Knee bursitis is an inflammation of a small fluid-filled sac near your knee joint, known as the bursa. These bags cushion different joints in the body like tiny pillows. When these sacs get swollen, bursitis occurs, and a process called effusion can cause fluid to build up around the joint.
Learn more about Knee Bursitis.
Knee Tendonitis
Tendons are strong connective tissues that connect muscles to bones. When muscles flex, tendons gently pull on the bones to move them. Tendonitis is inflammation of a tendon or group of tendons. Knee tendonitis, specifically patella tendonitis, is a common condition that many athletes and active individuals experience. A Carolina Orthopaedic and Neurosurgical Associates’ (CONA) knee specialist prescribes a customized treatment plan to reduce knee tendonitis symptoms.
Learn more about Knee Tendonitis
Patella Tendon Tear
The patella tendon connects the knee cap (patella) to the shin bone (tibia). The patella tendon is important because it works with the quadriceps tendon to straighten the leg. A patella tendon tear occurs when the patella tendon is partially or completely torn. Patients who experience patella tendon tear symptoms should make an appointment with a Carolina Orthopaedic and Neurosurgical Associates’ (CONA) knee specialist.
Learn more about Patella Tendon Tears
Quadriceps Tendon Tear
The quadriceps tendon is important because it attaches the large quadriceps muscles to the knee cap (patella). The quadriceps muscles, quadriceps tendon, and patella tendon work together to stabilize the knee and straighten the leg. A quadriceps tendon tear is a serious injury. An appointment with a Carolina Orthopaedic and Neurosurgical Associates (CONA) specialist should be made as soon as possible.
Learn more about Quadriceps Tendon Tears
Knee Fracture
A broken knee is known as a patellar fracture. If you fall directly on your knee or get a direct blow to the patella, you could suffer from a knee fracture. A twist while bearing weight can also cause a knee fracture and causes pain, swelling, bruising, and more.
Learn more about Knee Fractures.
ACL Tear
An anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury is a tear or sprain of this strong band of tissue that helps connect your thigh bone to your shinbone. Most ACL injuries happen in sports like soccer, basketball, football, and downhill skiing where players stop or change direction quickly, jump, and land.
Learn more about ACL Tear
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
Pain around the kneecap in the front of the knee is called patellofemoral pain syndrome. The patella is another name for the kneecap. The name “runner’s knee” is sometimes used to describe patellofemoral pain syndrome. People who run and play sports that involve running and jumping are more likely to have it. An orthopedic knee specialist at Carolina Orthopaedic & Neurosurgical Associates (CONA) will help you find the right treatment path for your knee pain.
Learn more about Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is caused when the cartilage that protects and cushions the joint wears down over time, causing grinding and friction between the bones, resulting in pain and restricted movement. Osteoarthritis can affect any joint in the body, but it’s commonly found in the spine, knees, hands, and hips.
Learn more about Osteoarthritis.
Knee surgery is suggested only when all other options have been exhausted. Our Knee Center Experts are dedicated to treating patients with the most effective course of treatment available.
Common Knee Treatments
ACL Repair
An ACL repair/reconstruction is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that treats an ACL tear. Carolina Orthopaedic and Neurosurgical Associates’ (CONA) knee specialists use the latest surgical techniques and instruments to perform ACL repair/reconstruction procedures. Patients recover quickly and return to activities and sports with minimal to no restrictions.
Learn more about ACL Repair
MCL Repair
An MCL repair/reconstruction treats a torn medial collateral ligament (MCL). The ligament is important because it stabilizes and moves the medial or inside part of the knee joint. A torn MCL will not heal on its own and symptoms will become worse if treatment is delayed. An appointment with a Carolina Orthopaedic and Neurosurgical Associates’ (CONA) knee specialist should be made as soon as possible.
Learn more about MCL Repair
Meniscus Repair
A meniscus repair is a minimally invasive procedure that treats a torn meniscus. Patients who injure their knee and experience meniscus tear symptoms should make an appointment with a Carolina Orthopaedic and Neurosurgical Associates’ (CONA) to find out if a meniscus repair is an appropriate treatment option.
Learn more about Meniscus Repair
Quadriceps Tendon Repair
The quadriceps tendon plays an important role in stabilizing the knee and straightening the leg. A complete quadriceps tendon tear makes it difficult to walk or even stand. The tear does not heal on its own and surgical intervention is usually recommended. A Carolina Orthopaedic and Neurosurgical Associates (CONA) specialist performs a quadriceps tendon repair to treat the tear and reduce symptoms so the patient can return to normal activities.
Learn more about Quadriceps Tendon Repair
Patella Tendon Repair
The patella tendon and quadriceps tendon help stabilize the knee and straighten the leg. A complete patella tendon tear or quadriceps tear make it difficult to walk or even bear weight. The tear does not heal unless surgery is performed. A Carolina Orthopaedic and Neurosurgical Associates (CONA) specialist performs a patella tendon or quadriceps tendon repair to treat the tear and reduce symptoms. The patient returns to normal activities with minimal to no restrictions after a quick recovery.
Learn more about Patella Tendon Repair
Knee Joint Injections
Knee joint injections can be used for many conditions to help relieve pain and other symptoms. These conditions can include arthritis, bursitis, tendonitis, and more.
Learn more about Knee Joint Injections.
When Should I See a Knee Pain Specialist?
Knowing when to see a knee pain specialist is crucial for addressing issues promptly and effectively. Here are some signs that indicate it’s time to consult a knee pain specialist:
Persistent Pain: If you experience persistent or worsening knee pain that doesn’t improve with rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) or over-the-counter pain medications, it’s essential to seek medical attention.
Difficulty Walking or Performing Daily Activities: If knee pain makes it challenging to walk, climb stairs, or perform routine tasks, it may indicate a significant problem that requires professional evaluation and treatment.
Swelling and Inflammation: Persistent swelling, redness, or warmth around the knee joint can be signs of inflammation or underlying issues such as arthritis, ligament injury, or infection.
Previous Knee Injury or Surgery: If you’ve previously injured your knee or undergone knee surgery, and you’re experiencing new or worsening symptoms, it’s essential to consult a specialist for evaluation and follow-up care.
Athletic Injuries: If you’re an athlete and sustain a knee injury during sports or physical activity, it’s crucial to have the injury assessed promptly by a sports medicine specialist or orthopedic surgeon to prevent further damage and facilitate proper healing.
Persistent Symptoms Despite Conservative Treatment: If you’ve tried conservative treatments such as rest, physical therapy, and medication, but your knee pain persists or worsens over time, talk to your orthopedic knee specialist.
Family History of Knee Conditions: If you have a family history of knee conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or genetic predispositions to knee injuries, it’s wise to be proactive about monitoring your knee health and seek early intervention if needed.
Orthopedic Knee Pain Specialist in Spartanburg, Duncan, and Greenville, SC
If you’re seeking expert care for knee pain in Spartanburg, Duncan, or Greenville, SC, look no further than Carolina Orthopaedics & Neurosurgical Associates. Our board-certified orthopedic surgeons specialize in diagnosing and treating various knee-related conditions and disorders, from ACL and meniscal tears to chronic pain associated with arthritis or sports injuries. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward finding relief and restoring function to your knees.