Orthopedic in Paramus NJ

DR. NEIL S. ROTH – Orthopedic in Paramus NJ

For the third consecutive year, New York Sports Medicine Institute founder Neil S. Roth, MD has been recognized by New York Magazine as one of New York’s best Orthopedic in Paramus NJ. This prestigious list is determined by other doctors, and NYSMI takes pride in what is yet another acknowledgment of the high level of expertise that can be found at the New York Sports Medicine Institute.

New York Sports Medicine Institute – a comprehensive sports medicine practice providing orthopedic surgery, physical therapy, and concussion care – provides patients living or working in Westchester access to the region’s top sports medicine doctors and healthcare professionals in a single convenient White Plains location.

Dr. Roth is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon, specializing in sports medicine, shoulder, elbow and knee surgery. Dr. Roth completed his sports medicine fellowship training at the world-renowned Kerlan-Jobe Orthopedic Clinic in Los Angeles, and he served as an assistant team physician for the Los Angeles Lakers, Dodgers, Kings and Angels, the Anaheim Ducks and the University of Southern California. He has consulted on orthopedic issues with the New York Yankees and Oakland Athletics baseball clubs. Dr. Roth has been a member of the staff of the prestigious Lenox Hill orthopedic teaching hospital in New York City since 2003, and where he still practices. He is a highly skilled and experienced Orthopedic in Paramus NJ, Schedule your appointment today by filling out a form on our website.

Local Orthopedic in Paramus NJ

Recent Blog Posts – From Our Orthopedic in Paramus NJ

RECOVERING FROM HIP REPLACEMENT SURGERY

Hip replacement surgery is a procedure in which an orthopedist surgically removes a defective hip joint that has developed arthritis and replaces it with an artificial hip joint which is made of either metal or plastic. Hip replacement surgery is a last-resort option when all other non-invasive options such as physical therapy, pain management, and self-care have not worked. Once the hip joint has healed, patients report increased quality of life. At New York Sports Medicine Institute we are a team of orthopedists, physical therapists, a concussion specialist, and a Orthopedic in Paramus NJ and White Plains that can help you every step of the way of your hip replacement process.

Recovery after a hip operation:

Immediately after your hip replacement, you will be monitored by your team of doctors for several hours and either provided further treatment or released based on progress. You could feel some pain however we will provide you with medicine to reduce this.  Anesthesia can cause breathing issues, which can cause mucus to accumulate in the lungs. Deep breathing and frequent coughing help to keep the lungs clean.

The typical post-hip replacement surgery hospitalization lasts one night, with some patients leaving the same day of surgery and others leaving days after. 

Physical therapy & pain management:

Regular exercise to restore strength and flexibility in the hip joint is essential for a complete recovery. The goal is helping you return to your daily activities. After you are released, you will need to begin outpatient rehabilitation. This begins based on your overall bodily condition post-surgery. At New York Sports Medicine Institute, our team of orthopedists, physical therapists, and a Orthopedic in Paramus NJ will work to get you back to living your life pain-free.  

Depending on your hip condition, a physiatrist may offer injections that can reduce pain and aid in overall healing. In conjunction with physical therapy, your Orthopedic in Paramus NJ can greatly help you during the post-surgical rehabilitation process.

Take care of your surgical wound:

You can typically remove the surgical bandage after five days. If you have sutures or pins, keep the area clean and dry until it is removed about two weeks after surgery. When bathing you must protect the area so that you do not get wet. Your surgical team will go over this process with you.

If there are signs of infection, contact your Orthopedic in Paramus NJ immediately. Signs of infection may include:

• Redness around the cut.
• Drainage issues at the incision.
• Flu-like symptoms.

How to reduce swelling and inflammation:

Circulation of the affected leg is slow after surgery, resulting in swelling of the calf and ankle. The swelling lasts on average 12 weeks but should decrease with each week. To reduce puffiness, we recommend resting your legs, knees above the heart, four to five times a day for 15 to 20 minutes each. Apply a cold compress to each painful or swollen area four to five times a day for at least 15-20 minutes.

Your physical therapist and physiatrist will help to reduce swelling and inflammation by prescribing the right treatment plan.

How to prevent blood clots:

Physical activity is the key to reducing the risk of a serious blood clot in your body. Walking, even over short distances, promotes circulation so as soon as you receive the go-ahead to begin walking, you should. Aim and bend your ankle repeatedly while sitting. Also, remember to take a prescription anticoagulant medication.

The symptoms of a blood clot include:

• Increase swelling of the affected leg, which does not decrease.
• Pain when touching the calf.

If you have any of these symptoms, contact our office immediately for further instructions! 

Follow-Up Post Hip Replacement Surgery:

Up to one-year post-surgery, you will have regular follow-up visits with your orthopedic surgeon. Your physician may run tests including x-rays, perform a physical examination, and discuss your concerns and mobility and comfort progress. Because we are a multidisciplinary team of orthopedists, concussion specialists, physical therapists, and a Orthopedic in Paramus NJ, we can help you in all aspects of the hip replacement process.

Contact an Orthopedic in Paramus NJ

If you or someone you know has recently undergone hip replacement surgery, New York Sports Medicine Institute can help get them on track to recovery. Our team offers exceptional one-on-one treatment that can help give you the attention you deserve. For questions on how we can help, schedule an appointment today!

PROTECTING YOUR KNEES DURING SKIING AND SNOWBOARDING SEASON

Skiing and snowboarding are just a few of the most enjoyable sports that the winter season has to offer, however, without the proper precautions, you can put yourself at serious risk. Your knees are incredibly vulnerable to injury when participating in these sports. Your sports Orthopedic in Paramus NJ at NYSMI would tell you that the most common knee injuries sustained as a result of these activities are ones to the ACL and MCL. However, you do not necessarily have to fall in order to damage your ACL. Seventy percent of all ACL injuries are non-contact and could potentially be avoided with the right precautionary steps.

How Can I Avoid Knee Injuries While Skiing or Snowboarding?

If you ski or snowboard safely, you are more likely to avoid any serious injury. Some factors to keep in mind while engaging in this activity:

• Skiing within your limits – It is important to always be in control when you are skiing or snowboarding and to not push yourself to do something that your body physically cannot. Like any other activity, it is imperative that you listen to your body. A sports Orthopedic in Paramus NJ would tell you that many patients have ignored the warning signs that their bodies gave them, leading to injury.
• Being aware of conditions – The weather can dramatically change the condition of the ski run and may be challenging for recreational skiers. Be aware of these conditions before you start skiing or snowboarding. We do not suggest skiing/snowboarding in inclement weather, especially if you’re not an expert. 
• Falling correctly – Nobody is perfect and you are bound to fall eventually while hitting the slopes due to the nature of the sport. When you do inevitably take a dive, it is essential to go with the flow of the fall and “fall with grace.” The body is more likely to be injured when the body stiffens up, so keep yourself comfortable and try not to panic.
• Use the right gear – Make sure your equipment is properly fitted to you. DO NOT wear loose-fitting equipment. 
• Training – Knee injuries are more common with recreational skiers because expert skiers normally have better technique. We at NYSMI, a sports Orthopedic in Paramus NJ, have seen plenty of cases where patients did not have the proper technique or their legs were not properly conditioned for skiing or snowboarding.

How Knee Injuries Occur, and How to Prevent Them

When skiing or snowboarding, you should always try to stay within your limits to decrease the risk of injury. However, even the most experienced athletes can find themselves in precarious situations. How you respond to and handle yourself in these situations can change whether you experience an injury or walk away safely. If you have suffered from a knee injury from skiing or snowboarding, reach out to us at NYSMI for a sports Orthopedic in Paramus NJ and get the help you need for recovery and care.

Often, the most common injuries in the knees from sports activities like skiing and snowboarding occur in the ACL and MCL. Injuries in these areas are more common because of the large amounts of twisting and bending forces that your knee can experience during these activities. The board or ski, combined with the stiff boots holding your legs in, can create a scenario that overloads the force in your knees and impels an injury. Some common errors or dangers that increase the risk of injury include:

• Being off-balance in the rear of your stance.
• Having your hips below the knee.
• Uphill arm back in an incorrect position.
• Upper body facing downhill ski or keeping your weight on the inside edge of the downhill ski.

If you find yourself in those situations, it is best to take the proper steps to fix your position, or even to bail out, as your risk of injury is far greater in those situations. Some ways to fix bad positioning include keeping your arms forward, feet together, and your hands over your skis. Additionally, you should maintain balance and control and keep your hips above your knees. 

Best Orthopedic in Paramus NJ

If you have injured your knee while skiing, snowboarding, or during any sport, visit a sports Orthopedic in Paramus NJ as soon as you can to avoid any further damage. If you are experiencing any pain, swelling, heat, redness, tenderness, hear any clicking or popping sounds, or if you have difficulty bending or putting weight on your knee, we encourage our patients to come to the New York Sports Medicine Institute. Our sports Orthopedic in Paramus NJ understands that every injury is different and we will be able to provide you with the proper care and rehab to get you back on the slopes as soon as possible. For more information, check out our website, or contact our NYC location at 212.861.2300.

THE IMPORTANCE OF PROPER REHABILITATION AFTER SURGERY

Sports injuries are usually suffered during competition or after overuse wear and tear. After surgery for your sports injury, our Orthopedic in Paramus NJ, Dr. Neil Roth is likely to prescribe physical therapy for you. If you do not then you are running serious risks to your body and may even make your injuries worse. Injuries resulting from lack of proper physical therapy rehab is most common after you receive surgery on the shoulder, knee, hip, elbow, foot, ankle, hand, or wrist. These joints you get surgery on will need rehabilitation to get back in working order, and without it, you run the risk of loss of mobility and use, as well as reinjury. For an Orthopedic in Paramus NJ that can help treat your injuries and provide you with the proper rehabilitation after your surgery, reach out to us at the New York Sports Medicine Institute and get the help you need!

Benefits of Proper Rehabilitation After Surgery

Our expert Orthopedic in Paramus NJ is likely to tell you that if you begin your rehab after your surgery you will:

• Restore normal movement in your injured area
• Build up strength in the surgically repaired area and surrounding muscles
• Ease any pain or swelling
• Let you go back to normal activities
• Help with circulation so you can avoid blood clots
• Help avoid re-injury

Post-rehab, or post-surgery rehabilitation, is about creating a balance of rest and exertion so you can build strength in the area you need to rebuild, while also allowing your body to heal. It can be easy to stay inactive, but this increases your risk of experiencing atrophy. At the same time, you may overexert yourself if you try to do too much after your surgery and end up hindering your healing and rehabilitation process. Your physical therapist and your orthopedic surgeon should work together to build the correct rehabilitation plan that will get you back on your feet, and let you continue your healthy life. To speak with an Orthopedic in Paramus NJ who can work with physical therapists to help build the perfect rehab plan for you, contact us at NYSMI and get back on your feet!

What Rehab or Therapy Do I Need?

It is important to start the rehabilitation process as soon as you can after surgery. Sometimes, depending on your surgery and if you are not in too much pain, you could start rehab the day of your operation. Rehab would include:

• Lightweight training exercises to strengthen the body – This will help restore normal function to the body and improve the muscles surrounding the surgically repaired area. 
• Stretching the muscles and joints – Stretching will help restore your range of motion and flexibility of the muscles.
• Ice and heat application – This is important for warming and cooling the muscles. It can stimulate blood flow and decrease any swelling. If you are not sure when to apply ice or heat, consult your Orthopedic in Paramus NJ or physical therapist.

In addition to different parts of rehab, there are different types of therapies your orthopedic surgeon may prescribe to you. The different types of therapies include:

• Physical therapy- This would focus on building strength and range of motion in injured areas or joints that have been operated on. This type of therapy is the most common and often given first after surgery.
• Occupational therapy- this type of therapy focuses on performing certain tasks after your surgeries, such as walking up stairs or being able to do your own housework. You can also learn how to better modify your environment or activities to make them easier to perform and get back to living a normal life.
• Speech therapy- this therapy is more common when you have surgery on the head or neck. You may develop issues with talking, swallowing, or being able to communicate, and speech therapy focuses on what you can do to resolve and fix these issues.

There are many different types of rehabilitation processes you can use to get back to living a normal and healthy life. You should speak with your surgeon and physical therapist to learn what types of therapies you need and are right for you. To speak with an Orthopedic in Paramus NJ and figure out the best rehabilitation plan for you, reach out to us at NYSMI.

How Can an Orthopedic in Paramus NJ Help?

If you have recently received surgery, then it is important to strengthen your body to avoid any post-surgery complications. If you have had a surgery but never went through a rehab process, speak with your orthopedic surgeon about rehabilitation plans that would be right for you. At the New York Sports Medicine Institute, we understand that everyone’s surgery is different and everyone will rehab differently. Our Orthopedic in Paramus NJ is able to recommend what routine would be right for you and put you on the right path to feeling healthier than ever, and get you back to your favorite activities. For more information visit us online or call our NYC office at 212.861.2300.

TREATMENT METHODS FOR PATELLAR TENDONITIS

How Can Our Orthopedic in Paramus NJ Help You?

At New York Sports Medicine Institute, our team knows how devastating knee pain and injuries can be to an athlete. If you’ve recently been diagnosed with patellar tendonitis, you’ll need to work with a top team that can help with your rehabilitation and get you back to full strength. Dr. Roth, our Orthopedic in Paramus NJ, will be able to do just that. For more information on what can go into your treatment, and what can point to you having sustained this injury, continue reading.

What Is Patellar Tendonitis?

Your patellar tendon works to connect the muscles in the front of your thigh to your kneecap. These parts of the body work together to allow for movements such as kicking, running or jumping. When overuse of your knee causes your patellar tendon to become irritated and inflamed, it is known as patellar tendonitis. Many different actions can lead to irritation in this tendon taking place, but the sports that are most likely to cause this include:

• Basketball
• Volleyball
• Track and field events that involve jumping

Symptoms To Watch For

Patellar tendonitis, also known as “jumper’s knee,” needs to be taken care of right away to prevent serious damage to your knee. When care is not received quickly, surgery could be the only option to treat the issue at hand. That is why when we begin to experience any of the following symptoms, you should reach out to our Orthopedic in Paramus NJ, right away:

• Pain and inflammation around your knee
• Redness or swelling
• Feelings of discomfort that begins with physical activity or right after an intense workout
• Inability to compete due to knee pain

Risk Factors

Knowing the risk factors that can lead to patellar tendonitis can help you try to avoid this type of injury in the future. Not needing to visit with our Orthopedic in Paramus NJ, means you won’t need to stop competing. Below are just some of the risk factors our team wants you to be aware of:

• Muscular imbalances
• Tightened leg muscles
• Sudden increases in the amount of stress placed on your knees

Invasive Forms Of Treatment

After being diagnosed with patellar tendonitis, there are multiple treatment options our Orthopedic in Paramus NJ, may recommend. When the damage to your patellar tendon is severe enough, invasive intervention is sometimes the only option. Should this happen to you, below are few procedures and treatments that may be performed:

• Platelet-rich plasma injections: Dr. Roth will perform this injection for patients plagued with chronic patellar tendon problems. These injections can promote new tissue to form and help repair damage.

• Oscillating needle procedure: This outpatient procedure is a relatively new one. With the use of local anesthesia and ultrasound imaging, a small, oscillating needle will cut away the damage in your knee while sparing the tendon.

• Other Surgery:  The previous procedure is not the only one that can be performed. If the damage is severe enough, Dr. Roth may recommend a surgical debridement of the patellar tendon. Doing so can eliminate your pain and get you back to full strength.

Non-Invasive Treatment

While invasive treatments can be effective, they always carry the risk of complications. To avoid this from happening, our team may utilize non-invasive forms of treatment at first to see if they will be effective. Examples of these forms of treatment include:

• Physical therapy:  Physical therapy is an activity-based form of treatment that focuses on promoting healing from within the affected area. Through the use of therapeutic stretches and strengthening exercises, the irritation being experienced in your patellar tendon can be relieved.

• Knee braces: If instability has caused patellar tendonitis to take place, wearing a knee brace could correct the issue. These braces can offer the support you need and take the pressure of the patellar tendon. 

• Rest and medication: Sometimes, all you’ll need is a few days worth of rest to correct your patellar tendonitis. To manage your pain during your resting period, you may be prescribed painkillers or anti-inflammatories.

Contact Our Orthopedic in Paramus NJ

Trying to live with knee pain can quickly prove to be a detriment to your everyday life. At New York Sports Medicine Institute, our team is committed to helping our patients find the relief they need. For more information on patellar tendonitis, and the treatment methods from our Orthopedic in Paramus NJ, contact us today.  

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Knee Sprain Recovery Time

Unfortunately, knee sprains are a potential injury associated with being active. Knee sprains may present with various uncomfortable symptoms that may require the help of an Orthopedic in Paramus NJ. Every patient is different and requires a different treatment plan depending on the severity of the knee sprain. At New York Sports Medicine Institute, we are here to take care of any knee pains you may have, especially if it is a knee sprain. We recommend you see an Orthopedic in Paramus NJ, who can look at your knee and determine a treatment plan made just for you. 

Causes Of a Sprained Knee

Bones are held together by ligaments and are essential to the general functioning of bones. A sprain is when a ligament is torn or stretched beyond typical stretching. Sprains are often very painful and limit movement in the impacted area. Knee sprains are notably complex as the knee has four main ligaments, meaning multiple ligaments are working together to allow the knee to function properly. An activity that forces the knee out of its natural position causes a knee sprain. A sprain can occur at any of the four knee ligaments: ACL, PCL, LCL, and MCL. 

Sprained Knee Symptoms

Sprained knees can present with a variety of symptoms. Due to there being four ligaments in the knee, each ligament can have its symptoms or signs of injury. For example, if an individual hears a pop in the knee during an activity, that could indicate an ACL sprain. However, some signs and symptoms to be on the lookout for in the knee suggest it might be time to see an Orthopedic in Paramus NJ, if you are in the Long Island area. Here are some examples of common knee sprain symptoms: 

• Bruising
• Buckling
• Muscle Spasms
• Knee Pain or pain in nearby areas
• Popping
• Stiffness
• Swelling in the knee or surrounding areas
• Tenderness
• Weakness

Diagnosis of a Sprained Knee

It is essential to see a doctor for recurring knee pains as it could be a knee sprain. It is imperative to see a doctor if knee pain impacts one’s ability to walk or stand. It is also essential to see a doctor if swelling in the knee or surrounding areas is present. When visiting a doctor for a potential knee sprain, the doctor will make some observations or request tests. Doctors typically look for swelling or bruising on the outside of the knee. They also look at the mobility of the knee to see what impact the injury has on movement compared to the non injured knee. It is essential to share information with the doctor regarding the activity that caused the knee pain and any symptoms associated with the injury. A doctor can make a well-rounded determination of the next course of action with this information. A variety of imaging can be used or requested by a doctor to understand the injury’s extent further. It is crucial that the imaging allows the doctors to see the ligaments and tissues surrounding the knee. 

Sprained Knee Treatment: Orthopedic in Paramus NJ

Doctors typically rank knee sprains on a scale based on their severity. The following numbers are associated with a different severity:

• 1= Partially torn ligament
• 2= Severely torn ligament
• 3= Completely torn ligament

The severity of the injury helps the doctor understand what treatment might be best for that specific injury. Doctors may recommend treatment for knee sprain in isolation or combination. Over-the-counter pain medication can help relieve pain associated with the knee sprain injury. Rest is another excellent treatment option to allow the ligament in the knee to heal and rebuild after overuse. Doctors will likely recommend ice on the sprain to reduce swelling too.

Additionally, a brace may be necessary to promote the rest of the injured knee and promote protection. A knee orthopedist may recommend Physical therapy or surgery to rebuild strength in the injured ligament. These options can also help prevent sprains in the future. 

Sprained Knee Recovery Time

The recovery time of a knee sprain varies depending on the severity of the injury. A minor sprain (1 or 2) can heal anywhere between 2 to 4 weeks. However, a completely torn ligament (severity 3) that requires surgery can take 4 to 6 months to heal. The majority of people that suffer from a knee sprain make a full recovery. In some cases, those who had a knee sprain develop arthritis in their knee throughout their life.

Contact Our Team: Orthopedic in Paramus NJ

At New York Sports Medicine Institute, we want to help you get back to your normal activities pain-free. Our Orthopedic in Paramus NJ, is ready to help you get back to your life and help relieve your knee pains. If you believe you have sprained your knee or had another knee injury, don’t hesitate to contact us. We look forward to helping you in any way possible and getting you back to feeling 100%! 

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Can Squats Cause Knee Damage?

Squats are a part of many people’s everyday workout routine. When done correctly, squatting should not cause any knee pain. However, people who squat incorrectly or have a pre-existing knee condition can experience damage to the knee. At New York Sports Medicine Institute, our Orthopedic in Paramus NJ can address various knee injuries with the proper care. Continue reading to learn why a person might experience knee pain while squatting.

Squatting Incorrectly

The first reason squats can cause knee damage is that a person is not squatting correctly. When improperly squatting, people mistakenly put pressure on the knees rather than the thigh muscles and glutes. Anyone who continues to experience pain after fixing how they squat should visit our Orthopedic in Paramus NJ to check for underlying knee problems. Common mistakes made while squatting that can result in injury include:

• Caving in your knees
• Not leading with your hips
• Allowing your knees to fall over your toes
• Not engaging your core
• Allowing your chest to fall forward

Spraining the Knee

If one twists their knee while squatting, it may cause a sprain. A sprained knee can result in pain and swelling. It can make it painful to squat or perform other exercises. In addition, there may be difficulty walking or putting weight on the knee joint. 

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

Patellofemoral pain syndrome occurs when the location of the pain is around the kneecap and the front of the knee. It is often referred to as “runner’s knee” or “jumper’s knee.” The condition usually appears in individuals who play a sport or are active. If a person has patellofemoral pain syndrome, it becomes painful to squat.

Tendonitis

Another condition that can make squatting painful is tendonitis in the knee. Tendonitis occurs when tendons that connect muscles to bones become inflamed. The tendons become irritated due to overuse or repetitive movements that exert a lot of force on the tendon. Therefore, one who has tendonitis and bends their knees to squat will experience further damage and pain.

Arthritis of the Knee

Arthritis can affect almost any of our joints, including the knee. It results in pain and inflammation in the joints. Two forms of arthritis include osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis develops when the joints’ cartilage that enables them to move smoothly breaks down. Rheumatoid arthritis occurs when the healthy tissue surrounding the joints gets attacked by your immune system. Both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis can appear in the knee and result in further damage when performing squats.

Cartilage Tear

The cartilage in the knee can tear due to severe injury or sprain. If a cartilage tear occurs, knee support needs to be worn during physical activity to keep the tear intact. If it isn’t supported, then pain and further damage can result when squatting. 

Patellar Tendon Tear

The patellar tendon is a tendon of the knee that can become torn due to a blow, jump, or weak tendon. The tear can worsen due to squatting and result in more pain. Some symptoms associated with a patella tendon tear include:

• Difficulty walking
• Knee buckling
• A moving kneecap
• Pain and tenderness

How to Prevent Knee Injuries– Orthopedic in Paramus NJ

Warming up before squatting can help avoid injury to the knees. To warm-up, perform movements that mobilize the joints and increase blood flow. Stretching the legs before and after squatting can also help lower the risk of injury.

Knee Injury Recovery: Orthopedic in Paramus NJ

If you injure your knee from squatting, you can use the RICE method to help reduce pain and inflammation. The RICE method consists of resting the knee, icing with a cold compress, applying a compression bandage to the knee, and elevating the leg. It would be wise to also visit our Orthopedic in Paramus NJ for further treatment. Our doctor may give medication, exercises, or casting to repair the injury.

Contact Our Team- Orthopedic in Paramus NJ

It is essential to be cautious when doing squats and other exercises to avoid knee injuries. Also, do not perform squats when you have a pre-existing knee injury because it can cause further damage. At New York Sports Medicine Institute, our orthopedic specialist can provide treatment for various knee injuries and conditions. Contact us today to meet with our Orthopedic in Paramus NJ.

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Can An ACL Tear Heal On Its Own?

An anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear is one of the most common knee injuries. Athletes who play sports like football, soccer, basketball, and volleyball are most susceptible to ACL tears. Thankfully, surgical and nonsurgical treatments can heal an ACL tear. Our Orthopedic in Paramus NJ can guide you towards the best form of treatment and help you carry it out. At New York Sports Medical Institute, we can help patients overcome knee injuries like a torn ACL.

What is an ACL tear?

An ACL tear damages the ligament located in the center of your knee. A ligament is a tough band of tissue that connects bones. The tear to your ligament can be partial or total, depending on the severity of the tear. Not only will it immediately hurt if you tear your ACL, but your knee can buckle or make a popping sound too. 

Causes of ACL Tears

ACL tears most often occur when physical activity is involved. Some of the different ways you can injure your ACL is by doing the following:

• Suddenly stopping after running
• Slowing down when running
• Landing awkwardly from a jump
• Changing directions suddenly, resulting in twisting your knee
• Colliding with someone else, like during a football tackle.

Symptoms of an ACL Tear

Directly after tearing your ACL, you might hear a “pop” in your knee and feel as if it has “given out.” Other symptoms associated with a torn ACL include:

• Pain
• Tenderness
• Discomfort when walking
• Immediately swelling
• Decreased range of motion in the knee

Diagnosis of an ACL Tear: OrthopedOrthopedic in Paramus NJ

When diagnosing an ACL tear, our Orthopedic in Paramus NJ will first rule out other possible knee injuries and compare your injured knee to your other knee. Our doctor will request your medical history and your symptoms. Imaging tests such as an X-ray or MRI will then be ordered. Our specialist can use an X-ray to check for broken bones in the knee. An MRI shows the ligaments, which will detect a torn ACL. However, imaging tests will not always be necessary because a torn ACL can easily be detected from your symptoms.

Treatment For an ACL Injury: Orthopedic in Paramus NJ

An ACL tear cannot heal on its own, so some form of treatment is required. Immediately after injuring the ligament in your knee, it is advised to do the RICE method. The RICE method consists of the following:

• Rest
• Ice
• Compression
• Elevation

Minor ACL tears can be treated using the RICE method. By staying off your feet for periods, icing your knee, elevating your leg, and wrapping an ace bandage around your leg, you can allow the ligament to heal. However, more intense tears need more attention. Further treatments can include:

• Prescribed anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce swelling and pain. 
• Knee braces to provide additional support to the knee.
• Physical therapy to exercise and strengthen the muscles around the knee.
• Surgery with our Orthopedic in Paramus NJ in severe cases.

ACL Tear Surgery

Our Orthopedic in Paramus NJ grafts a tendon from another part of the lower body to repair a torn ACL, such as the hamstring or kneecap. Grafting a tendon from your own body is less likely to re-tear. In older patients, a cadaver tendon may be used. The surgeon uses an arthroscope, a thin wand-like instrument, to make small incisions in the knee and reconstruct the torn ACL.

Healing an ACL After Surgery

After having surgery, you should keep the wound clean and dry. Ice should be used to reduce pain and swelling, and a brace and crutches can be used to keep you off your leg. It can take anywhere from six to nine months of physical therapy for an athlete to return to their sport. By that time, there will no longer be pain or swelling. The range of motion should fully be restored along with balance, strength, and endurance. The level of function before the injury is returned.

Contact Our Facility: Orthopedic in Paramus NJ

A torn ACL can hold you back from participating in the sports you love. It is essential to seek treatment from an Orthopedic in Paramus NJ to get back to a full recovery. At New York Sports Medicine Institute, we can diagnose and address all your sports injury needs. Contact our team today to meet with our specialist.

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Running Safety: Avoiding Repetitive Use Injuries with Orthopedic Care in Paramus, NJ

Welcome to the New York Sports Medicine Institute, where we prioritize your well-being and aim to provide valuable insights into sports-related injuries and preventive measures. In today’s discussion, we delve into running safety, focusing on avoiding repetitive use injuries. Whether you’re a seasoned marathon runner or just starting your jogging journey, understanding the importance of orthopedic care in Paramus, NJ, can significantly impact your running experience. Contact our office to learn more! 

Understanding Repetitive Use Injuries

Running is an excellent cardiovascular exercise, promoting overall health and well-being. However, the repetitive nature of the activity can lead to injuries, particularly if proper precautions and care are not taken. Repetitive use injuries, such as stress fractures, shin splints, and tendinitis, often result from the continuous impact and strain on the same muscles and joints.

Orthopedic in Paramus, NJ, is pivotal in addressing and preventing these injuries. Regular consultations with a specialized orthopedic surgeon can help runners identify potential risk factors, receive personalized advice, and develop a comprehensive plan to enhance running safety.

Critical Strategies for Injury Prevention

Proper Warm-Up and Cool Down

• One of the fundamental aspects of preventing repetitive use injuries is ensuring a thorough warm-up and cool-down routine. Warming up gradually increases blood flow to the muscles, preparing them for the upcoming activity. Dynamic stretches and light exercises can significantly reduce the strain on muscles and joints during a run. Similarly, a proper cool-down helps the body transition from high activity to resting, preventing stiffness and promoting recovery.

Appropriate Footwear

• The significance of suitable footwear must be considered in running safety. Ill-fitting or worn-out shoes can contribute to various injuries, including stress fractures and shin splints. Consult an orthopedic specialist in Paramus, NJ, to determine the most suitable footwear based on your running style, foot structure, and pre-existing conditions.

Cross-Training and Rest Days

• Engaging in cross-training activities and incorporating rest days into your routine is crucial for preventing overuse injuries. Alternating between different forms of exercise reduces the strain on specific muscle groups and joints, promoting overall strength and flexibility. An orthopedic in Paramus, NJ, can guide you in designing a well-rounded fitness plan that minimizes the risk of repetitive use injuries.

Listen to Your Body

• The most vital strategy in preventing running injuries is listening to your body. Pay attention to any signs of discomfort, pain, or unusual fatigue. Ignoring these signals can lead to more severe injuries in the long run. If you experience persistent pain or discomfort, seeking prompt orthopedic care in Paramus, NJ, is essential for early intervention and effective treatment.

The Role of An Orthopedic in Paramus, NJ

The New York Sports Medicine Institute is committed to providing top-notch orthopedic care in Paramus, NJ. Our experienced orthopedic surgeons specialize in sports-related injuries and understand runners’ unique challenges. Regular consultations with our experts can help you avoid injuries, ensuring a safe and enjoyable running experience.

Orthopedic in Paramus, NJ

In conclusion, running safety is a multifaceted endeavor involving proper techniques, preventive measures, and, most importantly, access to specialized orthopedic care. By incorporating these strategies into your running routine and seeking guidance from an orthopedic specialist in Paramus, NJ, you can significantly reduce the risk of repetitive use injuries, allowing you to pursue your passion for running with confidence and longevity. Visit our website today! 

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