If you have an orthopedic problem, such as knee pain or shoulder pain, visiting an orthopedist can help you get relief from your symptoms and prevent your condition from worsening. It is important to find a skilled orthopedist who you feel comfortable visiting. Below, we will take a look at how and where you can find the best City of Orange orthopedic surgeons.

When to Visit an Orthopedist

It can be easy to dismiss the signs of an orthopedic problem. Athletes may tell themselves that their symptoms are merely a side effect of training, especially with the pressure to continue training and competing. Older people who gradually develop orthopedic problems may dismiss their symptoms as a normal part of aging.

The fact is, it is never normal to experience pain on a regular basis. If you experience pain affecting the joints, bones, muscles, or tendons that goes on for longer than a few days, you should visit a doctor. You should visit a doctor immediately if you have severe pain, signs of a fracture, or are experiencing muscle weakness or other nerve symptoms like numbness.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Surgeon

As you research City of Orange orthopedic surgeons, there are a variety of factors to take into consideration. Some of the most important include:

• Board certification – The doctor should be board-certified in orthopedic medicine. In addition, you should check with the state board to find out whether the surgeon has a clean disciplinary record.
• Areas of expertise – If you have unique medical needs, you should visit a doctor who is familiar with patients like you. For example, athletes should visit a doctor who is an expert in sports medicine.
• Bedside manner – Communication is essential to effectively working with a doctor, so look for a doctor whose bedside manner makes you feel at ease, and who takes the time to address your questions and concerns.
• Experience in the field – A doctor with more experience in the field is more likely to have the skills and judgment to provide the high-quality treatment you need.
• Use of minimally invasive procedures – Minimally invasive procedures should be used whenever possible, because they are associated with lower costs, less downtime, and a lower risk of side effects.

Best City of Orange Orthopedic Surgeons

Dr. Howard Marans, head of OC Orthopedic, is one of the best orthopedic surgeons in the City of Orange. Dr. Marans has provided treatment for orthopedic problems for over two decades. Throughout that time, he has continually adopted the newest, most minimally invasive procedures. He is an expert in sports medicine, and is familiar with the unique needs of athletes training at an elite level. Dr. Marans’ patients appreciate his blend of technical skill, clinical judgment, and clear communication.

What to Expect at Your Consultation

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

Runners knee is common among runners and other athletes who make frequent use of the knee, such as people who frequently walk or jump. The term refers to a number of overuse injuries that affect the front of the knee, and is also known as patellofemoral syndrome. Below, we will take a look at some of the most common symptoms of runners knee, as well as how this painful condition can be treated.

Most Common Symptoms of Runners Knee

Because runners knee can vary in its nature and severity, the symptoms of runners knee also vary significantly. The most common symptoms include:

• Pain around or behind the kneecap, especially the upper portion where the kneecap (patella) meets the thighbone (femur)
• Pain when bending the knee, such as when walking, running, kneeling, or squatting
• Pain that gets worse when going downstairs or downhill
• Swelling around the knee
• A popping or grinding sensation in the knee when walking

The symptoms of runners knee can be similar to the symptoms of other conditions affecting the knee, so the physician will use diagnostic testing along with a physical exam to determine the exact nature of your injury. X-ray, MRI, and CT scans are all commonly used to diagnose the condition.

Treatment for Runners Knee

Treatment for runners knee depends on the severity of the condition and how the patient has responded to pat treatments. In many cases, at-home treatments can be sufficient to bring down inflammation and allow the knee to heal. Other times, more intensive treatment is required. Potential treatments include:

• RICE – When you have symptoms of knee pain, you can use the RICE method – Rest, Ice, Compress, and Elevate. For a period of several days, avoid using the knee as much as possible, ice the knee for 20 minutes every several hours, use an elastic bandage when walking, and elevate the knee on a pillow at about the level of the chest when lying down. If symptoms persist, further treatment may be needed.
• Anti-inflammatory medication – Non-steroidal ant-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like Aleve and Advil can alleviate pain and swelling. Do not take these medications on a long-term basis unless your doctor instructs you to do so.
• Physical therapy – A physical therapist can help you learn exercises to strengthen the knee, improve alignment, and restore flexibility. Physical therapy exercises should be performed on a regular basis even after the formal sessions end.
• Shoe inserts – If foot problems contributed to the runners knee, inserts to improve foot position may be recommended. The right orthotic depends on the particular patient’s foot.
• Surgery – In severe cases, the knee may be unable to recover without surgery. Surgery may be used to repair cartilage or fix the alignment of the knee.

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

If you have an injury to one of your joints or bones, it is important to make an appointment with a skilled orthopedic surgeon for diagnosis and treatment. Below, we will take a look at where and how you can find the best orthopedic surgeon in Tustin.

When to See an Orthopedist

Sometimes, people have a tendency to put off seeing the doctor after an orthopedic problem develops. Perhaps a middle-aged person dismisses new pain as simply a part of aging; or an athlete might try to push through pain in hopes of not having to take time away from training or competing.

Although this is understandable, it is important to seek medical treatment as soon as you notice a problem. It is not normal to experience consistent pain, even as you age or train. Leaving an orthopedic injury untreated can cause it to worsen and more complications may occur over time. For example, an untreated ACL tear can lead to osteoarthritis if left untreated. The recovery time and cost of treatment will be lower the earlier the condition is treated.

Choosing the Best Orthopedic Surgeon in Tustin

When choosing an orthopedist, it is important to choose a doctor who has the skills and experience to meet your needs. Some key features to look for in an orthopedic surgeon in Tustin include:

• Years in the field – All physicians have extensive education and training, but they continue to learn as they practice over the years. A more experienced doctor will typically provide better care.
• Bedside manner – The doctor should have good bedside manner; you should find that when you ask questions or raise concerns, they are addressed, and you should feel that you are always treated with respect. If you feel uncomfortable with a physician, you should consider switching doctors.
• Dedication to minimally invasive procedures – Minimally invasive procedures are associated with better outcomes and shorter recovery times, so choose an orthopedist who is dedicated to using minimally invasive methods whenever possible.
• Sports medicine expertise – If you are an athlete, be sure that your orthopedist frequently works with athletes and has expertise in sports medicine.
• Insurance affiliations – Before making an appointment, be sure that the doctor accepts your insurance. Your insurance is the primary factor that determines how much you pay out of pocket for treatment.
• Affordability – Some doctors make an effort to keep their costs to a minimum and pass on savings to clients.

Dr. Howard Marans is the top orthopedic surgeon in Tustin. Dr. Marans would be happy to meet with you about your orthopedic health. To schedule your consultation today, please click below and enter your information or call OC Orthopedic at (714) 979-8981.

If you have an injury to the knee, shoulder, or other joint, you may need to visit an orthopedic surgeon for diagnosis and treatment. Many people worry that visiting an orthopedic surgeon in the City of Orange will be expensive, but it can be quite affordable thanks to insurance coverage. In addition, getting treatment early on is much less costly than letting something go untreated until it becomes worse.

Factors Contributing to Orthopedic Surgeon Costs in the City of Orange

The cost of orthopedic treatment depends on a variety of factors:

• Whether surgery is used – Surgery is more costly than non-surgical treatment, but it is necessary in some cases.
• Type of surgery used – If it is possible to use minimally invasive, arthroscopic surgery, the cost will be lower than with open joint surgery. Arthroscopic surgery is usually shorter to perform and does not require a hospital stay.
• How complex the injury is – If an injury is very extensive or complex, treatment may be more costly.
• Diagnostic testing needed – If the injury is difficult to diagnose, it may be necessary to order multiple diagnostic tests before the cause can be identified.
• Local cost of living – Visiting an orthopedic surgeon is more expensive in areas where the cost of living is higher, but patient incomes are usually higher as well.
• The physician – Some doctors keep their operating costs to a minimum and pass on savings to clients.

Insurance Coverage

Although a number of factors can influence the cost of orthopedic surgery, the single biggest factor contributing to what you pay out of pocket for an orthopedic surgeon in the City of Orange is your insurance coverage. If you have extensive insurance coverage that does not have a high deductible or copay, you may pay next to nothing out of pocket. If you have less robust coverage, you may pay as much as thousands of dollars to meet your deductible. For most people, the reality lies somewhere between these two extremes.

Financing Options

If you have a high copay and cannot handle the cost of visiting an orthopedic surgeon in the City of Orange all at once, you can use financing to help spread the cost over a period of several months. Popular financing options include health care credit cards, which usually offer a low interest rate and a short period to pay the balance, and patient financing companies. You may also turn to resources such as traditional credit cards or loans.

Although the cost of treatment can be significant in some cases, getting treatment is much more affordable than letting an injury go untreated. Over time, orthopedic injuries can lead to more severe and extensive problems that require more expensive treatment, while also taking a greater toll on your quality of life and health. Therefore, it is best to visit an orthopedic surgeon as soon as you realize that there is a problem.

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

If you have knee pain, seeing a doctor about your condition can help you get relief from pain and prevent the condition of your knee from worsening. Below, we will take a look at what you can expect when you visit a Huntington Beach knee specialist, including the cost of a visit.

When to Visit a Huntington Beach Knee Specialist

You should visit a knee doctor if you:

• Have severe knee pain
• Have had mild to moderate knee pain for longer than a few days
• Are having problems moving your knee
• Are concerned about the condition of your knee

For mild injuries, it is acceptable to treat the knee at home with rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) for several days. However, if the symptoms persist or get worse, it is important to see a physician. Many knee injuries will not heal on their own.

Cost and Insurance Coverage

The cost of a visit to a knee specialist, along with the cost of any treatments and testing recommended at the appointment, should be covered by your insurance, since it treats a medical condition. This means that the biggest factor that impacts what you will pay to see a Huntington Beach knee specialist is the terms of your insurance coverage. If you are not sure about the size of your deductible and copay, you can contact your insurance company for more information.

When considering the cost of visiting a Huntington Beach knee specialist, it is important to remember the difference between the cost of getting treatment now and the cost of putting off treatment until later. In most cases, letting a knee condition go untreated leads to the worsening of the condition, which becomes more costly to treat.

What to Expect at Your Appointment

At your appointment, the doctor will begin by asking you about your medical history, family history, and lifestyle. You will discuss your symptoms, including when they started and what influences them. He will physically examine you, focusing on the knee and other affected parts of the body. This can often give the doctor a good idea of the cause of the symptoms – sometimes enough to make a diagnosis.

If necessary, the doctor will order diagnostic testing, such as an x-ray or CT scan; less commonly, blood testing may be required. Once a diagnosis is made, the doctor will work with you to develop a plan of treatment which is both acceptable to you and likely to be effective.

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

If you have an orthopedic problem, an orthopedic surgeon can help identify the cause of your symptoms and recommend and administer a course of treatment. When it is time to visit an orthopedic specialist, many patients wonder about the potential cost. Below, we will take a look at some of the factors affecting the cost of visiting orthopedic specialists.

Factors Influencing the Cost to See an Orthopedic Specialist

Different orthopedic problems may cost different amounts to treat. Some of the key factors that influence the cost of visiting orthopedic specialists include:

• Local cost of living – In areas where the cost of living is higher, such as Orange County, it tends to cost more for doctors to provide treatment, resulting in higher costs.
• Testing ordered – In some cases, the doctor may be able to diagnose the condition simply through examination, but diagnostic testing is required in most cases. This may include x-ray, MRI, CT scan, blood testing, and more. These can all contribute to the cost of visiting a physician.
• Procedures ordered – A wide variety of treatments may be ordered for orthopedic problems. The doctor may order relatively simple treatments, like medication and rest; treatments that are slightly more intensive, like physical therapy or injections; or you may require some form of surgery. Treatments that use more resources are more expensive. In some cases, a number of different treatments may all be necessary.
• Follow-up appointments required – Depending on the nature of the condition, you may need to see your orthopedist on a fairly regular basis for a period of time, or you may only need one or two appointments with the doctor.
• The physician – Some doctors are dedicated to minimizing the costs they incur and passing those savings on to patients.

Costs and Insurance Coverage

Visiting orthopedic specialists is affordable for most patients thanks to insurance coverage. Insurance plans vary in how they cover treatment, but all insurance plans should cover the cost. This means that the major factor that determines your out of pocket costs is your insurance – how high are your deductible and copay? If you are unsure of the terms of your plan, or unsure about how much of your deductible you have met this year, you can contact your insurance provider for more information.

When considering the cost of visiting an orthopedic surgeon, it is important to consider the difference between the cost of getting treatment now and the cost of getting treatment later. Orthopedic problems have a high potential to become worse over time, which means that leaving treatment until later on can make it be more expensive at that time. In addition, there is no reason to live with pain and discomfort.

Dr. Howard Marans would be happy to meet with you about your orthopedic health. To schedule your consultation with Orange County’s top orthopedic specialist, please click below and enter your information or call OC Orthopedic at (714) 979-8981.

Ankle fractures which are complex or in which the bone is displaced often need surgery before they can be casted. If you are looking for an ankle fracture surgeon, it is important to find the best doctor in your area. Below, we will take a look at some of the most important things to consider when choosing a doctor for ankle fracture surgery.

Experience

All doctors have extensive education and training in medicine and in their field of specialty. However, doctors continue to hone their skills and develop more refined judgment over the years, as they gain experience and work on a wide variety of cases. Most people feel more comfortable visiting a physician who has at least a few years of experience in the field.

Insurance Affiliation

Before scheduling an appointment with a doctor, confirm whether or not they accept your insurance plan. If you have PPO insurance, check whether the doctor is a preferred provider. Your insurance will only kick in if you go to a doctor who accepts it, so it is best to check on this issue in advance. With the help of insurance, the majority of ankle surgery patients are able to afford their treatment without much trouble.

Availability

Ankle fracture surgery is not typically something that can wait until later – an ankle fracture will worsen over time, and it will be less able to heal, with a higher rate of complications. Therefore, when you need ankle surgery, you typically need to get it as soon as possible. When you are looking for a doctor for ankle fracture surgery, be sure to confirm that he will be available to perform the surgery immediately.

Bedside Manner

Communication is an essential part of a doctor-patient relationship. Quality communication can ensure that your concerns are heard, and that you receive and understand any important information from your physician. If possible, look for a doctor whose bedside manner makes you feel comfortable with and confident in their care.

Top Ankle Surgeon in Orange County

Dr. Howard Marans, head of OC Orthopedic, is the top doctor for ankle fracture surgery in Orange County. Dr. Marans has performed hundreds of fracture surgeries throughout his decades in the field of orthopedic medicine. He combines a wealth of experience and refined technical will with good communication and bedside manner that facilitates a comprehensive, individualized approach to treatment.

If you have an ankle fracture or other orthopedic problem, Dr. Howard Marans would be happy to hear from you. To schedule a consultation with Orange County’s top doctor for ankle fracture surgery, please click below and enter your information or call OC Orthopedic at (714) 979-8981.

If you have a wrist problem, it is important to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment. Left untreated, there is a potential for wrist problems to become worse over time. Below, we will take a look at some of the most common wrist problems, as well as where you can find the best doctor for wrist surgery in Orange County.

Common Wrist Problems

The wrist is a complex joint, and a wide variety of problems may afflict it. Some of the most common wrist conditions include:

• Osteoarthritis – The cartilage and other structures in one or more of the wrist joints begins to degrade, leading to painful inflammation. Other forms of arthritis can also occur, but osteoarthritis is the most common.
• Wrist sprains – One of the ligaments in the wrist tears; the tear may be tiny, or the ligament may be torn into two pieces. Wrist sprains usually occur during a fall, when the patient puts their hand out to break a fall.
• Wrist fractures – Fractures to one or more bones in the wrist usually occur as a result of trauma. Because so many nerves and ligaments run through the wrist, and because there are so many bones in the wrist, wrist fractures have the potential to seriously affect usage of the hand.
• Carpal tunnel syndrome – The median nerve runs through a structure called the carpal tunnel, which is located in the wrist. If swelling of the carpal tunnel compresses the median nerve, carpal tunnel syndrome occurs. This condition is associated with repetitive hand motions, like playing the piano or typing.
• Ulnar tunnel syndrome – Similar to  carpal tunnel syndrome, ulnar tunnel syndrome is compression of the ulnar nerve. It typically occurs as a result of chronic pressure against the ulnar tunnel, as can occur in cyclists or construction workers.

Many of these problems can be treated non-surgically, with treatments such as physical therapy and bracing. However, if the injury is severe or has not responded to other treatments, surgery may be required. Often, wrist surgery can be performed arthroscopically, which minimizes its invasiveness.

Top Wrist Surgeon in Orange County

Dr. Howard Marans is the top doctor for wrist surgery in Orange County. Dr. Marans is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon who has performed thousands of orthopedic surgeries over the course of his career. Dr. Marans works with each patient to develop a treatment plan that incorporates accurate diagnosis, patient education, and technically skilled administration of the chosen treatment.

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

ACL and meniscus tears are both common injuries affecting the knee. They differ in what part of the knee is affected, as well as in what symptoms they may cause. Similar treatments may be used for both conditions in many cases.

About ACL Tears

The knee contains four ligaments which are responsible for holding it in place and facilitating movement: the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), the lateral collateral ligament (LCL), and the medial collateral ligament (MCL). If the knee is twisted or forced past its normal range of motion, the ACL may be stretched or torn.

ACL tears range in severity from mild (stretched but little actual tearing), moderate (torn but ligament is intact) to severe (ligament is torn in two pieces). Depending on the severity of the injury, symptoms of pain, decreased range of motion, and knee instability may occur.

About Meniscus Tears 

The knee also contains two menisci, which are wedge-shaped pieces of cartilage that help facilitate smooth movement of the knee. If the knee is subjected to trauma, long-term stress, or abnormal movements, the meniscus may tear.

Meniscus tears usually cause pain, stiffness, and a feeling of discomfort when moving the knee. The nature of the symptoms depends on how severe the tear is, as well as where on the meniscus the tear occurred.

ACL and meniscus tears are not mutually exclusive – if the knee has been severely injured, damage to both parts of the knee may occur. In addition, the meniscus can be torn in more than one place.

Risk Factors for ACL and Meniscus Tears

Some people are at an elevated risk of sustaining ACL tears and meniscus tears. Some risk factors for these and other knee injuries include:

• Athletic training at an elite level, especially if over-training occurs
• Participation in contact sports, like football, or sports with sudden turns and stops, like basketball
• Middle age
• Smoking
• Obesity
• Sedentary lifestyle

Treatment

Treatment for ACL and meniscus tears depends on how bad the injury is and how the patient has responded to past treatments. In some cases, methods like rest, medication, and physical therapy can restore the knee to working condition. If the tear is severe or the patient is very physically active, then surgery may be needed. Although the procedures differ based on the type of injury, both ACL tears and meniscus tears can be treated using arthroscopic knee surgery, a minimally invasive form of surgery.

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

Tears to the knee’s anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) are among the most common orthopedic injuries. If you have symptoms of an ACL tear, it is important to see a skilled surgeon for diagnosis and treatment. Below, we will take a look at the basics of ACL treatment, as well as where you can find the best orthopedic surgeon in Fountain Valley.

About ACL Tears

The knee is composed of four ligaments, all of which contribute to knee stability: the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), lateral collateral ligament (LCL), and medial collateral ligament (MCL). The ACL is the most frequently torn ligament, especially among certain athletes.

The ACL usually tears after sudden twisting of the knee, as can happen during a fall or in sports that require high-speed, frequent turns, like basketball and football. The ACL can also be torn during an accident or collision. ACL tears vary in severity from stretching of the ligament, to a partial tear, to a complete tear of the ligament.

ACL Treatment

Treatment depends on how severe the tear is, and on how active and healthy the patient is. Mild tears can often be treated with non-surgical methods such as rest and medication. Moderate to severe tears frequently require surgery, especially if the patient is young and physically active. In most cases, it takes several months, or as long as a year, for a moderate-to-severe tear to fully heal.

ACL surgery can usually be performed arthroscopically. During arthroscopic surgery, the doctor makes several small incisions around the knee, and inserts tools and a camera through those incisions. Thus the doctor is able to repair the knee without opening it up. Since this procedure is minimally invasive, it can be performed in an outpatient setting, and no general anesthesia is required.

Choosing a Surgeon

The quality of your orthopedic surgeon can make a big difference in how your treatment proceeds. Some key factors to ask as you search for an orthopedic surgeon in Fountain Valley include:

• Is the surgeon a board-certified orthopedist?
• Does the surgeon have expertise in sports medicine?
• How many years of experience does the surgeon have?
• Is the doctor dedicated to offering minimally invasive procedures?
• Does the doctor have good bedside manner?
• Do reviews from past patients tend to be positive?

Dr. Howard Marans is the top orthopedic surgeon in Fountain Valley. Dr. Marans is a board-certified orthopedist who has worked in the field for several decades. He is an expert in sports medicine, and has treated Olympic athletes in the past. Dr. Marans keeps abreast of the latest advances in the field, and offers cutting-edge, minimally invasive procedures whenever possible. Dr. Marans’ patients appreciate his combination of bedside manner, clinical judgment, and technical skill.

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