SPARTANBURG • DUNCAN • GREENVILLE, SC

Knee Pain Doctor

Orthopedic Knee Pain Specialist Doctors in South Carolina

OVERVIEW

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.

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Why Choose CONA for Hand and Wrist Care 10

KNEE CARE

Common Knee Treatments

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.

ACL Repair

An ACL repair/reconstruction is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that treats an ACL tear.

Learn more about ACL Repair

MCL Repair

An MCL repair/reconstruction treats a torn medial collateral ligament (MCL).

Learn more about MCL Repair

Meniscus Repair

A meniscus repair is a minimally invasive procedure that treats a torn meniscus.

Learn more about Meniscus Repair

Quadriceps Tendon Repair

The quadriceps tendon plays an important role in stabilizing the knee and straightening the leg.

Learn more about Quadriceps Tendon Repair

Patella Tendon Repair

The patella tendon and quadriceps tendon help stabilize the knee and straighten the leg.

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.

Learn more about Knee Joint Injections.

CONDITIONS

Common Knee Conditions

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.

Meniscus Tear

The meniscus is a piece of soft cartilage that protects the knee bones from rubbing. A meniscus tear is a common injury that makes it difficult to move the knee without pain. Carolina Orthopaedic and Neurosurgical Associates’ (CONA) knee specialists accurately diagnosis and effectively treat meniscus tears so patients do not have to worry about knee pain keeping them from doing the things they enjoy.

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.

OUR SPECIALISTS

Meet the Team That Gets You Moving Again

Our knee specialists offer comprehensive care for acute and chronic knee conditions, helping patients regain strength, improve mobility, and return to an active lifestyle.

ORTHOPAEDIC SPORTS MEDICINE SURGEON

Mikhail Alexeev, MD

Board-Certified Orthopedic Sports Medicine Specialist

Minimally Invasive Sports Medicine

Shoulder, Hip & Knee Injuries

Sports Injury Care

Spartanburg Duncan Greenville

SCHEDULE WITH DR. MIKHAIL

JOINT REPLACEMENT ORTHOPAEDIC SURGEON

William Efird, MD

Fellowship-Trained Hip & Knee Replacement Specialist

Hip Replacement

Knee Replacement

Robotic Joint Surgery

Spartanburg Greenville

SCHEDULE WITH DR. EFIRD

WHEN TO SEEK KNEE CARE

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.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Knee FAQs

What knee conditions does CONA treat?

CONA’s Knee Center treats ACL and MCL tears, meniscus tears, knee arthritis and osteoarthritis, knee bursitis, knee tendonitis, patella and quadriceps tendon tears, patellofemoral pain syndrome (runner’s knee), knee fractures, and more. Our board-certified surgeons take a conservative-first approach and recommend surgery only after exhausting other options.

What are the most common signs of a serious knee injury?

Seek evaluation at CONA if you experience a popping sensation at the time of injury, significant swelling within 24 hours, inability to bear weight, the knee ‘giving out’ or feeling unstable, or limited range of motion that doesn’t improve with rest. These symptoms may indicate a ligament tear, meniscus injury, or fracture that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment.

Do I need surgery for an ACL tear?

Not always. Some ACL injuries, especially partial tears in less active individuals, may be managed successfully with physical therapy and bracing. However, athletes and active individuals often benefit from ACL reconstruction surgery to restore stability and reduce the risk of future knee damage. Your CONA specialist will evaluate your activity level, the extent of the injury, and the health of surrounding structures to recommend the best course of action.

What is a meniscus tear, and how is it treated?

The meniscus is a C-shaped piece of cartilage that cushions the knee joint between the femur and tibia. Tears often occur during twisting movements or with age-related degeneration. Small tears may heal with rest, ice, and physical therapy. Larger or more symptomatic tears may require arthroscopic surgery to repair or trim the damaged tissue. CONA’s surgeons use minimally invasive techniques to help patients return to activity as quickly as safely possible.

What are my options if I have knee arthritis?

Knee arthritis treatment begins with the least invasive options: activity modification, weight management, physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and joint injections. For patients with severe arthritis who do not respond to conservative care, knee replacement surgery is highly effective at relieving pain and restoring function. CONA’s specialists will work with you to find the right long-term solution for your lifestyle.

How long does it take to recover from knee surgery?

Recovery timelines vary by procedure. Arthroscopic procedures like meniscus repair or ACL reconstruction may allow return to light activity in a few weeks, with full recovery taking four to nine months depending on the complexity of the repair. Knee replacement recovery typically requires six weeks to three months before resuming most normal activities, with full recovery continuing up to a year. Consistent physical therapy is key to a successful outcome.