How To Know When an ACL Injury Requires Surgery

ACL tears are a common knee injury, especially among athletes. Tears to the knee’s anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) can vary significantly in severity. Some tears can be treated without surgery, but other times surgery is unavoidable. The severity of the tear as well as some lifestyle and risk factors are taken into account when choosing a course of treatment.  

Understanding ACL Tears

The ACL is one of four ligaments in the knee which contribute to its movement and stability. ACL tears most commonly occur after sudden twisting or trauma to the knee. Athletes whose sport require frequent turns, stops, or contact may tear their ACL. For example, football players, ballet dancers, and soccer players are prone to this injury. It may also occur after an accident or even after a simple action such as bending down to pick something up.

ACL tears vary in severity as follows:

• Grade I – The ligament is stretched and stressed but not torn. Mild to moderate pain may occur, but the issue is not severe.
• Grade II – The ligament tears but is still intact. Pain, instability, and trouble moving the knee may all occur.
• Grade III – The ligament is completely torn and severed into two pieces. Grade III tears are severe and usually cause dramatic, immediate symptoms.

When Surgery is Considered

In many cases, surgery is the best option for restoring functionality to the knee and relieving symptoms. Untreated ACL tears can lead to more severe problems, such as osteoarthritis and hip issues. However, no surgery is without risks and downsides, so the benefits must be weighed against the risks.

Severe, Grade III tears often require ACL reconstruction, while Grade I tears are unlikely to require reconstruction. For moderate tears, the decision is based on issues such as:

• How the patient has responded to non-surgical treatments
• Where the tear is and how likely it is to respond to non-surgical treatments
• How active the individual is and whether they require full use of the knee (for example, athletes are much more likely to require surgical treatment than less active individuals)
• How old the patient is, since age affects whether full use of the knee is required and how the patient will respond to surgery
• Whether there are any other risk factors, such as preexisting diseases that would make surgery a more risky prospect  

ACL reconstruction is usually performed using minimally invasive, arthroscopic surgery. This allows the doctor to operate on the knee without opening up the knee and making large incisions.

Only a physician can determine whether surgical ACL reconstruction is the right choice in any individual case. Dr. Howard Marans would be happy to meet with you about treatment for your ACL tear. To schedule a consultation today, please click below and enter your information or call OC Orthopedic at (714) 979-8981.

Rheumatoid Arthritis vs. Osteoarthritis

Arthritis occurs when one or more of the body’s joints becomes inflamed. Arthritis can be caused by many issues, but the most common types of arthritis are rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Each type causes different symptoms and requires a different approach to treatment.  

Types of Arthritis

There are numerous types of arthritis. Some of the types include:

• Osteoarthritis – A degenerative condition in which the cartilage and other joint structures wear down, resulting in pain and inflammation. Most common in older people, obese people, and people who have untreated orthopedic injuries.
• Rheumatoid arthritis – A progressive autoimmune condition in which the body’s immune system attacks healthy tissue in the joints. Typically, the same joints on both sides of the body are affected. This condition has a significant genetic component.
• Gouty arthritis – Gout can cause arthritis. Gouty arthritis may occur with certain thyroid conditions, or more rarely as a result of a nutritional deficiency.
• Post-traumatic arthritis – Joint inflammation that occurs after a joint injury, such as a car accident or sports accident.
• Infectious arthritis – A rare condition in which a joint becomes infected. Sudden joint pain, fever, and joint warmth may all be noted. This is a serious condition requiring prompt intervention.

Osteoarthritis Treatment

Osteoarthritis treatment is focused on relieving inflammation and restoring joint function. Typically, the most minimally invasive treatments are the most preferable form of treatment. Common treatments include:

• Physical therapy – Relives inflammation and strengthens the muscles that support the joints. The exercises should be continued at home during and after the formal physical therapy ends.
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs – NSAIDs such as Aleve and Advil help bring down inflammation.
• Weight loss – For obese people, losing weight can reduce the stress on the joints. Losing as little as 10% of one’s body weight can help.
• Surgery – Surgery can be used to replace joints that have suffered severe damaged. Surgery can be either arthroscopic or open joint depending on which joint is affected and how much of the joint must be replaced.

Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment

Many treatments are common between osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. However, because rheumatoid arthritis is a progressive, autoimmune condition, some different treatments are also employed. In addition to the treatments explored in the osteoarthritis section, rheumatoid arthritis treatment may also include:  

• Occupational therapy – Helps make changes to allow patients to perform activities such as cooking, dialing the phone, and personal hygiene
• Maintaining joint mobility – Preventing permanent loss of joint mobility is a primary concern. Stretching several times a day as outlined by the physical therapist is key. In addition, patients are instructed to make changes such as sleeping on one’s back on a flat, hard mattress with a low pillow.
• Autoimmune drugs – Some drugs specifically target the autoimmune response involved in rheumatoid arthritis. These drugs often have significant side effects, but may still be the best option.

Dr. Howard Marans is the top arthritis doctor in Orange County. Dr. Marans would be happy to meet with you about your rheumatoid arthritis treatment. To schedule your consultation today, please click below and enter your information or call OC Orthopedic at (714) 979-8981.

Everything You Need To Know About Osteoarthritis Treatment

Osteoarthritis is an orthopedic problem in which one or more of the body’s joints degenerates, leading to pain, mobility issues, and other symptoms. The condition is chronic, but treatment can adequately control symptoms in the majority of cases. Below, we’ll take a look at the most important facts to know about osteoarthritis treatment.  

What Osteoarthritis Is

A joint is where two or more bones meet. The ends of bones that meet at joints are covered in cartilage, which helps facilitate smooth movement. Joints also contain synovial fluid, a fluid which helps the joints move smoothly, and may also contain fluid-filled sacs and other substances.

Arthritis is a broad term that refers to any inflammation in a joint. Osteoarthritis is more specific, and refers to the degeneration of a joint. Cartilage can wear down and even expose the bone, which may become damaged. In large joints such as the knee, the joint’s fluid may become depleted.

Osteoarthritis may occur in any joint in the body. However, it is especially common in the knees, hips, and hands. Anyone can develop osteoarthritis, but the factors such as age, genetic propensity, and obesity can increase one’s risk.

The Outlook

Osteoarthritis is a chronic condition. Although it is very possible to manage symptoms of inflammation, it is not possible to reverse the damage that caused that inflammation. Therefore, the goal of treatment is to manage symptoms and prevent further joint degeneration.

The Approach to Treatment

In osteoarthritis treatment, doctors will use the least invasive treatment that is likely to be successful. The majority of cases can be managed without ever resorting to surgical treatment.

Some treatments that may be employed in the management of osteoarthritis include:

• Physical therapy – Teaches exercises that help strengthen the muscles that support the joints, reduce inflammation, and improve flexibility. A cornerstone of osteoarthritis treatment.
• Exercise and stretching – During and after formal physical therapy, it is important to regularly exercise and stretch.
• Occupational therapy – Occupational therapists work to restore the patient’s ability to perform normal tasks, such as dialing a telephone or bathing.
• Weight loss – Carrying excess weight places stress on the body’s joints. Losing as little as 10% of one’s body weight if obese can lead to a reduction in symptoms.
• Smoking cessation – Smoking contributes to inflammation and reduces the body’s capacity to heal. Stopping can help.
• NSAIDs – Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as Aleve and Advil may be prescribed to reduce inflammation
• Steroid injections – Provide powerful but localized reduction in inflammation.
• Surgery – If the symptoms are severe and do not respond to other treatments, surgery may be necessary. During surgery, the doctor accesses the joint and removes damaged cartilage and bone, replacing it with prosthesis.

Dr. Howard Marans would be happy to meet with you about your osteoarthritis. To schedule your consultation today, please click below and enter your information or call OC Orthopedic at (714) 979-8981.

Sports Medicine Doctors Near Huntington Beach, CA

If an athlete and have sustained an injury while training or competing, it is important to see a skilled sports medicine doctor as soon as possible to minimize damage, loss of function, and downtime. Below, we will take a look at the basics of sports medicine, as well as where patients can find the best sports medicine doctor near Huntington Beach.  

About Sports Medicine

Athletes who train and compete at a high level are at a high risk of injury due to the strain placed on the body. In addition, certain athletes have extra risks – for example, the risk of falls for cyclists and gymnasts, and the risk associated with contact in sports like football.

As patients, athletes have unique needs. A non-athlete and an athlete with the exact same injury require a different approach to treatment. This is due to the fact that the athlete’s injury most likely had different contributing factors, as well as the fact that the athlete most likely requires treatment that will restore full function to the injured body part.

Choosing a Sports Medicine Doctor

The skill of the sports medicine doctor will impact the patient’s experience from start to finish. Some important things to look for in a sports medicine doctor include:

• Experience – Doctors with more experience are typically able to provide care that draws on a deeper well of judgment and which is administered with more technical skill.
• Bedside manner – The doctor should communicate clearly and work to help the patient feel as comfortable as possible. Poor bedside manner can actually interfere with the patient’s overall care.
• Area of expertise – If there are unusual features in the case, such as a rare condition, it is important to find a doctor who has expertise in the area.
• Visiting the office – It should be easy to reach the office and make an appointment, and appointments should start near their scheduled time as often as possible.
• What others say – The experiences of past patients can provide insight into what the majority of patients experience with a particular physician. Reading reviews or asking friends and family for recommendations can be helpful.  

Top Huntington Beach Doctor

Howard Marans, M.D. is the top sports medicine doctor near Huntington Beach, CA. Dr. Marans has spent over two decades providing high-quality to care to athletes and other people with orthopedic problems. Dr. Marans works to individualize care for each patient. He provides technically skilled treatments which are based in sound clinical judgment. Dr. Marans communicates clearly with patients, and considers the patient part of the treatment team.

Dr. Marans would be happy to meet with you about your sports injury. To schedule a consultation today, please click below and enter your information or call OC Orthopedic at (714) 979-8981.

Find Treatment For Shoulder Arthrtitis in Mission Viejo, CA

The shoulder may develop arthritis as a result of degeneration, trauma, or autoimmune disease. Treatment for shoulder arthritis varies based on the severity of the condition, but the majority of patients are able to control their symptoms and maintain functionality in the shoulder.  

About Shoulder Arthritis

Arthritis is a broad term that simply means inflammation of a joint. It may be caused by a number of factors. Osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis, is a degenerative condition in which the cartilage surfaces of the joint break down over time. Post-traumatic arthritis may occur after shoulder trauma. Rheumatoid arthritis is a progressive autoimmune condition in which the immune system attacks joints all over the body. There are also some less common types of arthritis, such as infectious arthritis.

Shoulder arthritis is most common among older people. It may also occur in athletes who use the shoulder frequently. Shoulder arthritis can produce pain and stiffness that make it difficult to perform even simple tasks.

Treatment Options

The most minimally invasive treatments available are preferred for treating arthritis. Because arthritis is usually a chronic condition, management is also long-term. Making lifestyle changes can go a long way toward controlling symptoms. Some common treatments include:

• Physical therapy – Can help strengthen the muscles that support the shoulder and maintain a range of motion. The exercises learned in physical therapy should be performed at home regularly. Whatever other treatments are used, physical therapy will form a cornerstone of the treatment process.
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) – Medications like Aleve and Advil can help relieve the inflammation associated with shoulder arthritis.
• Steroid injections – Steroids have powerful anti-inflammatory effects. By injecting the medication directly into the joint, it is possible to provide a large dose with only local effects.
• Shoulder replacement – Surgical replacement of the damaged joint surfaces is sometimes necessary in cases where symptoms are severe and the patient does not respond to any other treatment methods.

Another factor that influences the course of treatment is the patient’s age and activity level. Athletes and other people who require full use of the shoulder, such as musicians, will typically receive more aggressive treatment. In contrast, older and more sedentary people will typically receive less aggressive treatment, because the benefits do not outweigh the risks.  

Best Mission Viejo Shoulder Doctor

The best doctor for shoulder arthritis in Mission Viejo, CA is Dr. Howard Marans, head of OC Orthopedic. Dr. Marans has worked in orthopedics for over 20 years. He is skilled at the administration of both surgical and non-surgical treatments, and has helped many shoulder arthritis patients to regain function.

Dr. Marans would be happy to meet with you about your shoulder pain. To schedule your consultation today, please call (714) 979-8981 or click below and enter your information and we will get right back to you.

How Long is the Recovery Time for ACL Surgery

Tears to the knee’s anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) are among the most common sports injuries, especially among football players, basketball players, and other sports that involve rapid turns and stops. In many cases, surgery is required to treat the torn ligament. Although patients can return to work relatively quickly after ACL surgery, it can take much longer for the knee to fully heal.  

About ACL Tears

The knee has a relatively narrow range of motion, capable of moving only in one direction. It is the largest joint in the body, and one of the most complex joints. The ACL is one of four ligaments responsible for holding the knee in place. The ACL usually tears as a result of sudden twisting or force to the knee, as can happen during sports. Older adults are also prone to ACL tears.

ACL tears are classified based on their severity:

• Grade I – The ligament stretches or sustains a very minor tear. Symptoms are usually relatively mild and confined to pain. Several weeks of rest and care can give this type of tear time to heal.
• Grade II – The ligament tears significantly but is still intact. Symptoms are more pronounced and may include both pain and instability. Athletes often require surgery for this type of tear, but non-surgical treatment may be preferred for older, less active individuals.
• Grade III – The ligament is completely severed. Pain and instability of the knee may be severe. This type of tear almost always requires surgery, especially among athletes.

ACL Surgery Basics

ACL surgery is usually performed arthroscopically, which means that the doctor accesses the joint by making small incisions on the knee. Through these incisions the doctor inserts a camera and the tools used to operate.

Arthrocopic knee surgery is typically performed in an outpatient setting, so patients can return home the same day. Usually, only local anesthesia and sedation are required.

Recovery From ACL Surgery 

For the first few days after ACL surgery, activity is quite restricted. Patients are instructed to get up for a few minutes every day, but will not be up to much more than that. Pain is often managed with prescription medication for the first few days. Each successive day after surgery, pain is more manageable and the patient feels up to doing more.

Many patients feel up to returning to work at a desk job within a week of surgery. Other normal activities can also be resumed. It is around this time that physical therapy usually begins.  

It takes longer for the knee to make a full recovery. For athletes, it usually takes several months until the knee is strong enough to perform at the required level (if such a complete recovery is possible). This means that for most athletes, a torn ACL means an end to the season.

Dr. Howard Marans would be happy to meet with you about treatment for your knee injury. To schedule a consultation today, please click below and enter your information or call OC Orthopedic at (714) 979-8981.

Where is the Best Surgeon For Bike Injuries in Orange County

Cycling is a low-impact sport, but people who do it at a competitive level are still prone to stress and overuse injuries, as well as trauma injuries related to falls. People who have sustained a cycling injury should visit a surgeon for cyclists for diagnosis and treatment.  

Cyclist Problems

Cycling can affect the knees, ankles, feet, and shoulders. Cyclists can prevent injury by avoiding overtraining and by cross-training whenever possible. Using proper form when training is also essential. Furthermore, injury can be reduced by cycling as safely as possible and always wearing safety gear.

Common cycling injuries include:

• Clavicle fracture – The collarbone breaks after a fall
• Concussion – Concussion or other head injuries may occur, especially if a helmet was not worn
• Plantar fasciitis – Inflammation of the connective tissue in the foot
• Patellar tendonitis – Tear or inflammation of the tendon that connects the kneecap to the shin
• Knee osteoarthritis – Degeneration of the knee joint’s cartilage, bone, and synovial fluid
• IT band syndrome – Inflammation of tissue running along the lateral aspect of the thigh, resulting in pain
• Achilles tendonitis – Inflammation of the tendon that attaches the heel to the shin

Despite precautions, cyclists may develop injuries at some point in their career. If that occurs, finding a skilled surgeon can ensure that the patient gets accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

Finding a Surgeon

There are many factors to consider when looking for a surgeon for cyclists. Some of the most important features include:

• How long the surgeon has been in the field
• Whether the surgeon is accepting new patients
• Whether the surgeon uses non-surgical methods when possible
• Bedside manner and how well the surgeon answers questions and addresses concerns
• What past patients say about their experiences in testimonials and on review sites

Ultimately, one’s own intuition about whether or not the surgeon is a good fit is one of the most important factors in choosing a physician.

Best Surgeon for Cyclists

In Orange County, the best surgeon for cyclists is Dr. Howard Marans. At OC Orthopedic, Dr. Marans provides advanced sports medicine treatments to cyclists and other athletes. Dr. Marans has worked in sports medicine for over two decades. Throughout that time, he has adopted the newest, most effective treatments for cycling injuries.

Dr. Marans understands that quality of treatment is intimately related to the patient’s outcomes. The process starts with diagnosing the problem in a timely manner, drawing on medical expertise and available resources. Next, the doctor and patient work together to establish a course of treatment that will be effective. Finally, Dr. Marans executes the treatment, whether surgical or non-surgical, with precision and skill.

Dr. Marans would be happy to meet with you about treatment for your cycling injury. To schedule a consultation today, please click below and enter your information or call OC Orthopedic at (714) 979-8981.

How Effective is Treatment For Hand Arthrtitis

The hands are essential for most daily activities like hygiene, housework, or typing. As a result, having hand arthritis can significantly impede one’s ability to function and enjoy a certain quality of life. A number of treatments for hand arthritis are available, and most cases can be treated effectively without resorting to surgery.   

Types of Hand Arthritis 

Arthritis is a broad term that refers simply to inflammation of a joint. There are many types of arthritis. The most common form is osteoarthritis, a degenerative condition that is common with age. Other types include post-traumatic arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. The various types of arthritis each require a specific approach, although there is a good deal of overlap in the treatments.

Medication

Medication can be used to reduce inflammation of the joints. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like Aleve and Advil are often used. In addition, rheumatoid arthritis patients may take medications specific to the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.

Exercises and Physical Therapy

Regardless of what other treatments are used, hand exercises and physical or occupational therapy are essential. Practicing exercises that strengthen the hand and take the joints through their full range of motion can help to retain functionality and flexibility, while reducing pain and stiffness. After the initial course of physical therapy is complete, patients should continue to exercise the hand at home.

Injections

Injections are a minimally invasive procedure that may be used to relieve inflammation. The most common type of injection is a steroid injection. Steroids have powerful anti-inflammatory effects, and injections can target one specific area with a high dose of steroids.

Splinting 

Splinting the hand and/or wrist can relieve the hand from frequent movement that is causing inflammation, allowing inflammation to die down. Splinting is a temporary measure designed to relieve inflammation. Patients may be instructed to splint when a flare-up occurs.  

Surgery

In cases where non-surgical methods are unlikely to help, surgery may be considered. Joint replacement and joint fusion are among the most common surgical treatments. If the joint has deteriorated so that pain is inevitable with movement, plates and screws may be used to fuse a joint together so that the two bones move as one. This prevents pain, but limits movement. Joint fusion is the most common type of surgery for arthritis of the hand.

Joint replacement can be used for most of the hand joints. During this procedure, damaged cartilage and/or bone are removed and replaced with a prosthetic. The goal is to improve function and longevity of the joint.

Dr. Marans would be happy to meet with you about treatment for your hand pain. To schedule a consultation today, please give us a call at (714) 979-8981 or click below and enter your information.

For patients who have sustained a traumatic injury, insurance coverage can be complex because several types of insurance may be responsible for the bill. Although insurance can be complex, treatment by a trauma surgeon should always be covered by insurance.  

Types of Traumatic Injury 

Traumatic injuries are injuries that occur after sudden, severe damage to part of the body. Common situations in which a traumatic injury may occur include:

• Workplace injuries
• Sports injuries – especially contact sports
• Car accidents
• Pedestrian accidents

Traumatic injuries often cause damage to the bones or soft tissues of the body. Fractures and ligament tears in areas like the legs, arms, knees, or shoulder are common. More rarely – and more seriously – severe damage may occur, such as “shattering” a bone, breaking the pelvis, or experiencing a brain injury or spinal cord injury.

Other Forms of Insurance Pay First

Often, traumatic injuries occur in situations where several insurances are in play. For example, workplace injuries are covered by workers compensation insurance, while car accidents and pedestrian accidents are covered by car insurance. In cases where both drivers were insured, first the at-fault driver and then the car accident victim’s insurance may cover part of the cost of treatment. The exact amount of coverage depends on the terms of the insurance.

Health Insurance Picks Up the Rest

In general, health insurance will not kick in until all other forms of insurance are exhausted. From there, health insurance will pick up the rest of the bill as described in the insurance policy. Depending on the terms of the policy, patients may or may not face a significant deductible or copay.

Because several insurances may all provide coverage for traumatic injuries, the trauma surgeon may need to obtain all of the insurance information and send bills to all of the insurance providers.

Managing Your Out-of-Pocket Costs

Ideally, insurance would make it possible to manage any out-of-pocket costs of the surgery without trouble, and many people are able to do so. However, because plans with a lower premium often have a high deductible and copay, some patients experience very significant out-of-pocket costs.  

Patients who cannot afford their portion of the treatment have several options for financing. The trauma surgeon may be able to recommend a trusted third-party financing firm. All of the traditional forms of credit, like loans, credit cards, and health care credit cards, are also available. The right choice depends on the patient’s preferences and financial situation.

Howard Marans, MD is the top trauma surgeon in Orange County. Dr. Marans accepts most major insurances, including PPO plans. Dr. Marans would be happy to meet with you about your traumatic injury. To schedule a consultation today, please click below and enter your information or give us a call at 714.979.8981.