Orthopedic surgeon Dr. Brian Cole breaks down how diet and joint supplementation influence patellofemoral pain and IT band syndrome, plus when to seek treatment.
Category: Knee
Men’s Joint Health: Why Active Men Wait Too Long to Seek Treatment — and What It Costs Them
Men have a well-documented relationship with pain: they minimize it, rationalize it, and more often than not, play through it. Research consistently shows that men in the United States die on average five years earlier than women, are more likely to make unhealthy or risky choices, and are significantly more likely to delay or avoid medical care altogether. In orthopedic medicine, that delay has a direct clinical cost, and it shows up every day in the exam room.
Understanding Meniscal Transplantation
Dr. Cole emphasizes patient education in sports medicine. Meniscal surgeries can lead to pain or other issues. Meniscal transplantation, using a donor meniscus, is a potential solution. The procedure has a 75-85% success rate and a 10-12 year effectiveness. Recovery takes 6-8 months with detailed rehabilitation. Rush University’s Orthopedic Surgery Department conducts leading research in orthopedics.
Meniscal Tear Procedure: Animation Video
A meniscal tear, also known as a cartilage tear, is a common knee injury caused by twisting or rotating the knee, especially with full weight on it. Symptoms include pain, clicking sensations, swelling, and difficulty extending the knee. Treatment options range from nonsurgical approaches like rest and therapy to potential surgery.
ACL Reconstruction Patellar Tendon: Animation Video
ACL reconstruction involves replacing a torn ACL with a patellar tendon graft, known as a bone-patellar-tendon-bone (BPTB) graft. This surgical procedure aims to restore knee strength and function, commonly following sports-related injuries. The BPTB graft, with low failure rates, is often preferred for active individuals, but the hamstring tendon graft is also an option.
Osteoarthritis and Meniscal Tears – Treatment Options
The knee joint comprises bones, ligaments, and two types of cartilage: a shock-absorbing meniscus and a smooth, rubbery substance. Osteoarthritis, the most common knee arthritis, results from cartilage erosion, leading to pain and stiffness. Patients with both arthritis and a meniscal tear may not benefit significantly from arthroscopy, warranting non-surgical treatment consideration.
Total Knee Replacement: Animation Video
Total knee replacement surgery can provide relief for severe knee damage from arthritis or injury, allowing patients to resume normal activities. With advancements in materials and techniques, it has become a safe and effective procedure, with over 700,000 performed annually in the U.S. For more information, visit orthoinfo.aaos.org or briancolemd.com/knee.
Understanding the Missing Link in ACL Injury Prevention
Preventing ACL Injuries-What the research tells us: It is estimated that there are over 250,000 anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries per year in the United
The Best Treatments For Patellar Tendonitis
In this Podcast episode, Dr. Brian Cole is joined by a Rush physical therapist to discuss the best ways to manage and treat patellar tendonitis,
Maintain Healthy Knees with these Strengthening Exercises
Maintaining strong and healthy knees is essential for overall mobility and quality of life. Whether you’re an athlete, a fitness enthusiast, or simply someone who wants to prevent knee injuries, incorporating strengthening exercises into your routine can make a significant difference.
Understanding the Link Between Knee Pain and Sciatica
Sciatica is a term you might have heard if someone complains about leg pain or back problems. But did you know that sciatica can also
Protect Your Knees When Playing Pickleball
Pickleball is a fantastic sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, making it accessible and enjoyable for people of all ages. However,
