MCL tears are a common knee injury, especially among athletes and middle aged individuals. In order to prevent further damage to the knee, it is important to get treatment for an MCL tear as soon as possible after the tear occurs, and surgery is sometimes necessary. There is some recovery time with MCL surgery. By understanding what to expect, you can plan ahead for the impact surgery will have on your day to day life.  

When Surgery is Necessary

In some cases, it is not necessary to operate on an MCL tear. It may be possible to relieve the symptoms of mild to moderate tears using physical therapy, especially if the patient is older and less physically active. For moderate to severe tears in younger, more active people, surgery is usually required.

How Surgery Works

The majority of MCL tears can be treated using minimally invasive, arthroscopic surgery. This type of surgery is performed in an outpatient clinic, and the patient is placed under conscious sedation instead of general anesthesia.

The doctor accesses the knee through a few small incisions, about the size of a pencil. Through one incision, a camera is inserted, producing a real-time video of the inside of the knee on a screen in the operating room. Through the other incisions, the doctor inserts the tools that are necessary to perform the surgery.

Expected MCL Surgery Recovery Time

One of the biggest advantages of arthroscopic surgery over open knee surgery is that the recovery time is shorter. Here’s what most patients can expect in terms of MCL surgery recovery time:

• You will return home the same day
• For the first few days, you will walk around for a few minutes each day, but won’t feel up to much more
• After a week, you will be able to return to a desk job and do other day-to-day activities
• You will participate in physical therapy starting around this time
• After about 6-8 weeks, you will be able to return to more physically strenuous activities, such as a physically active job
• It may take several months for athletes to regain knee function enough to be able to train at their previous level.

Some MCL surgery recovery time is inevitable. However, patients can take steps to minimize their recovery time by preventing any side effects from developing. Some key steps to take include learning about the symptoms of common side effects and when to call your doctor, and participating in physical therapy to the fullest extent possible.

If you suffer from knee pain, Dr. Howard Marans would be happy to hear from you. To schedule your consultation today, please click below and enter your information or call OC Orthopedic at (714) 979-8981.

If you have an ACL surgery, it is important to understand what that surgery might entail. In addition, many patients are concerned about what treatment may cost. Below, we will take a look at ACL surgery options and costs.  

ACL Surgery Options

The goal of ACL surgery is to repair the tear. This is accomplished by taking a small piece of tendon or ligament from another part of the body, usually another part of the knee, and repairing the tear with it. In some cases, only stitches inside the knee are required to repair an ACL tear.

Thanks to arthroscopic surgery, the majority of ACL tears can be resolved in a minimally invasive manner. During knee arthroscopy, the doctor makes several incisions about the size of a pencil near the knee. Through the first incision, the doctor inserts a camera, which produces a high-quality video of the inside of the knee. Tools are inserted through the other incisions, allowing the doctor to operate.

Open knee surgery is much more invasive, and is associated with a longer hospital stay and recovery time, as well as a higher risk of certain side effects. During open knee surgery, the doctor makes a large incision and actually opens up the knee to operate on it. This is most likely to be used in cases of very severe tears, complex tears, or when the ACL tear is associated with another knee injury as well.

Costs of Surgery

When it comes to ACL surgery options and costs, it should be understood that ACL surgery is relatively costly, just like all other surgery in modern America. However, arthroscopic surgery is much more affordable than open knee surgery, another factor that makes it an attractive option.

The biggest factor that influences ACL surgery options and costs is your insurance coverage. Since surgery is only used to treat an ACL tear when it is the best medical treatment, insurance does cover ACL tears. This means that your out of pocket costs depend primarily on the terms of your insurance coverage. If you have a low deductible, treatment can be very affordable. For people with a high deductible and copay, out of pocket costs may be higher.

There are a variety of financing options to help you manage the cost of ACL surgery and get the treatment you need. Health care credit cards and patient financing companies are two popular options which are specifically designed to be used for health care costs.

If you are interested in treatment for your ACL tear, Dr. Howard Marans would be happy to hear from you. To schedule your consultation today, please click below and enter your information or call OC Orthopedic at (714) 979-8981.

If you suffer from an orthopedic problem, getting effective treatment can improve your quality of life and help preserve your orthopedic health for years to come. When it is time to see an orthopedist, it is important that you find skilled orthopedic specialists who will be able to provide the high-quality care you need. Below, we will take a look at how and where you can find the best reviewed orthopedic specialists in Orange County.  

When to See an Orthopedist

Sometimes, people dismiss chronic pain as simply a part of aging. Similarly, athletes are prone to dismissing signs of injury as an inevitable part of training. Regardless of where you are in life, it is not normal to experience consistent or severe pain, or to become dramatically less able to use your body as you once did. If you start experiencing pain in your joints, muscles, or bones, it may be time to visit an orthopedic specialist.

What to Expect at Your Consultation

The purpose of your consultation is for your doctor to get an idea of what might be causing your symptoms and which treatments might be appropriate in your situation. Your doctor will start by asking you questions about your symptoms, including when they started and what makes them worse. You will also talk about your family medical history and personal medical history.

The doctor will perform a physical exam, focusing on the parts of the body where you are having symptoms. Then, the doctor will order diagnostic testing to confirm the cause of your pain. The diagnostic testing may include x-ray, CT scans, or other imaging tests as necessary. If certain conditions are suspected, blood may be drawn.

Once the doctor has made a diagnosis, an initial course of treatment will be chosen. The right treatment will depend on the nature of your condition, how well you have responded to previous treatments, how active you are, and whether you have any other health problems.

Best Reviewed Orthopedic Specialist in Orange County

Dr. Howard Marans is the best reviewed orthopedic specialist in Orange County. Dr. Marans is a skilled orthopedist who has spent over two decades treating patients for a wide variety of issues affecting the ankles, wrists, shoulders, knees, and other parts of the body. Dr. Marans is a sports medicine specialist who has treated elite athletes, in addition to treating less active individuals. Dr. Marans’ patients appreciate his clear communication and ability to find solutions to complex orthopedic problems.

If you have an orthopedic injury, Dr. Howard Marans would be happy to hear from you. To schedule your consultation today, please click below and enter your information or call OC Orthopedic at (714) 979-8981.

For bone fractures, prompt treatment is essential to healing. Some bones require surgical treatment, in which case a fracture surgeon will be needed. Below, we’ll explore the basics about fractures, as well as where you can find the top fracture surgeon in Orange County.

Fracture Basics

A fracture, or broken bone, occurs when a bone is exposed to more pressure than it can handle. Fractures may occur in athletes who fall or are in a collision, after accidents, or in older adults, especially those with osteoporosis.

Fractures are a serious medical condition that require immediate treatment. They usually cause severe pain and make it difficult or impossible to use the affected body part. If not treated promptly, fractures have the potential to cause issues such as nerve damage, internal bleeding, or a serious condition known as compartment syndrome.

Treatment of Fractures 

If the bone is broken but still in its proper position, most fractures can be treated with casting or immobilization, which allow the bone to heal without experiencing stress from the muscles and movement.

If the bone is no longer properly aligned, if it is broken into two separate pieces, or if there are breaks in several cases, surgery may be necessary. The typical surgery for a fracture is open reduction and internal fixation. During this procedure, the surgeon puts the bone back in its proper position, then uses hardware such as rods and screws to keep it in place after it heals.

Once the cast is removed and the joint is mobile again, there is still more healing that must take place. Patients go through physical therapy to regain strength and mobility in the affected area.

Considerations When Choosing a Doctor

When choosing a fracture surgeon, some of the most important things to consider are:

• Experience – How long has the doctor been in the field?
• Expertise – If your case is complicated or unique, does the doctor have experience treating patients like you? If you are an athlete, is he or she a sports medicine expert?
• Services offered – If you have other orthopedic conditions, will the fracture surgeon be able to treat those as well?
• Availability – Fracture repairs are usually performed on an emergency basis, so the doctor will need to get to the hospital quickly.

Top Orange County Fracture Surgeon

Dr. Howard Marans is the top fracture surgeon in Orange County. Dr. Marans has over two decades of experience treating patients for fractures and other orthopedic issues. He is a skilled surgeon whose precision and technical prowess has earned him acclaim among both patients and peers. Patients appreciate Dr. Marans’ excellent clinical judgment and straightforward approach to treatment.

Dr. Marans would be happy to meet with you about your fracture. To schedule a consultation today, please click below and enter your information or call us at 714.979.8981.

If you have an orthopedic injury, finding the best doctor to treat your condition can help ensure the most positive possible outcome. Below, we will take a look at how and where you can find the best orthopedist in California.

1. Experience in the Field

All board certified physicians have received extensive education and have significant clinical experience under their belt. However, doctors continue to gain skills and judgment as they gain years of experience in the field. As a result, most people feel more comfortable going to an experienced doctor, or at least going to an office with more experience physicians on hand.

2. Areas of Expertise

A wide range of orthopedic problems can develop, and the treatments for such problems vary significantly. If you know what condition is causing your symptoms, it is helpful to choose a doctor who is an expert in the treatment of your condition. For example, if you have a broken bone, look for a doctor who specializes in the treatment of fractures.

It is especially important to consider the doctor’s area of expertise if you have a rare or unusual condition. Although every orthopedist will be able to address common issues such as torn ligaments, not every doctor will be able to treat a rare condition.

3. Affiliations and Availability

The practical aspects of visiting a particular doctor should also be considered. For example, some orthopedists may be booked up for several months and not available to provide the prompt treatment you need. You should also check ahead of time to make sure that the doctor accepts your insurance.

4. Bedside Manner

Being able to communicate with your doctor is essential to the progression of the treatment process. The doctor should have good bedside manner that facilitates open, clear communication. You should feel comfortable discussing your symptoms and concerns, and find that your doctor respects them. In addition, you should feel like you are able to ask questions and get the answers you need.

5. What Others Say

It is hard to know what the outcome of seeing a doctor will be until you have actually had a visit. Finding out about the experiences of past clients can help. You can ask friends, family, or your primary care physician to recommend an orthopedist in California who they have had good experiences with. In addition, you can read reviews from patients on many websites online, which can give you a wider range of perspective on a particular physician.

Dr. Howard Marans is the top orthopedist in California. 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.

Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when there is too much pressure on the median nerve, which runs from the wrist to parts of the hand. The symptoms of carpal tunnel can be severe, so it is important to seek treatment from a skilled orthopedist if you have this condition. Below, we will take a look at how carpal tunnel is treated.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Symptoms

Carpal tunnel causes symptoms in the hands and fingers. Some of the most common symptoms include:

• Muscle weakness
• Numbness
• Tingling
• Pain

Symptoms may get worse at night or when you are performing activities that use the hand, like playing the piano, typing, or sewing.

Risk Factors

A number of factors can increase your risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome. Although people can develop the condition without risk factors, and may not have problems even if they have many risk factors, your chances of having carpal tunnel increase if you:

• Are female
• Have fractured or dislocated your wrist in the past
• Have diabetes or another condition that causes nerve damage
• Have an inflammatory condition like rheumatoid arthritis

Some people believe there is a correlation between carpal tunnel and factors like typing a lot or working in an assembly line, but studies have not found a strong connection.

Non-Surgical Treatment

Most cases of carpal tunnel can be treated without surgery. Some of the most effective non-surgical treatments include:

• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) – Drugs like ibuprofen and naproxen do not treat the underlying condition, but they can provide relief from symptoms.
• Splinting – Splinting the wrist holds it still so that the nerve does not experience further irritation. Splinting is often performed at night, to prevent noctural symptoms.
• Corticosteroid injections – Injecting the carpal tunnel with a drug such as cortisone can reduce inflammation and swelling, thus relieving pressure on the median nerve and alleviating symptoms.

Surgical Treatment

Surgery may be necessary when symptoms persist even after non-surgical methods have been attempted. During surgery, the doctor relieves pressure on the median nerve by cutting the ligament that is pressing against it.

Endoscopic surgery is often appropriate for carpal tunnel syndrome. During this procedure, the doctor uses a camera and tiny incisions to view and operate on the joint. In some cases, the doctor may perform open surgery, which uses a larger incision.

Endoscopic surgery has a shorter recovery time, and a lower risk of certain complications, such as infection and bleeding. Your doctor will discuss which treatment is best for you based on your unique clinical situation.

If you have symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, Dr. Howard Marans would be happy to meet with you. To schedule your consultation today, please click below and enter your information or call OC Orthopedic at (714) 979-8981.

Osteoarthritis is one of the most common causes of pain and disability, especially among older adults. Although the symptoms can be painful, the majority of patients are able to lead a normal life with osteoarthritis treatment. Below, we will take a look at what you can expect in terms of treatment for this condition.

Understanding Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is the degeneration and inflammation of a joint. In this condition, the cartilage on the joint’s surfaces break down; it may expose the bone, and the bone may begin to break down as well. The amount of fluid in the joint decreases, especially in larger joints like the knee. The surfaces of the joint rub against one another instead of sliding smoothly past, and inflammation occurs.

Osteoarthritis can happen to any joint in the body, no matter how large or small. The hips, knees, and hands are some common locations for osteoarthritis to develop. You may have osteoarthritis in just one joint, or in many joints throughout the body.

The Approach to Osteoarthritis Treatment

Osteoarthritis treatment is approached with the goal of using the least invasive treatment that is likely to be effective. Most of the time, non-surgical treatments are effective at relieving symptoms. Your doctor will most likely tart you out on non-surgical methods and evaluate your response to those treatments. If you continue to have symptoms, the doctor may recommend other treatments. If necessary, surgery may be considered.

Non-Surgical Treatments

Some of the mot common and effective forms of non-surgical osteoarthritis treatment include:

• Weight loss – If you are obese, losing weight places less stress and pressure on the joint, and symptoms can be reduced. Losing as little as 10 percent of your body weight can make a big difference.
• Smoking cessation – Smoking contributes to inflammation throughout the body, so it is recommended that you stop smoking if you have osteoarthritis.
• Physical therapy – Physical therapy strengthens the muscles that support the joint and improves flexibility. The exercises taught at physical therapy should be performed at home during and after treatment.
• Regular exercise and stretching – Regularly using the exercise you learned in physical therapy can help you control symptoms. In most cases, twice a day is ideal.
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) – NSAIDs like Aleve relieve inflammation, thus reducing symptoms. You should not take an NSAID for longer than a few days without talking to your doctor first.

Surgical Osteoarthritis Treatment

If non-surgical methods are not effective, surgery may be necessary. The goal of osteoarthritis surgery is to replace the damaged joint surfaces. For example, during knee replacement, the damaged bone and cartilage are removed and replaced with a prosthesis. Surgical treatment is invasive, but it is effective in most cases. Your doctor will only recommend surgery if he or she believes that the benefits of surgery outweigh the risks.

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

If you have a fractured toe, you may experience significant pain and difficulty walking. For your comfort and health, it is important to seek treatment for a suspected fracture as soon as possible. Below, we will take a look at how a fractured toe is treated, as well as where you can find the best California fracture doctor.

Treatment for Toe Fractures

If you believe you may have fractured your toe, it is important to be treated as soon as possible. Broken bones have the potential to lead to serious complications if left untreated. In addition, an untreated fracture can be harder to heal, can get worse over time, and can place strain on the ankle, knee, and hip due to improper posture and gait.

Most toe fractures can be treated by immobilizing the toe so that the bone has the opportunity to heal without being exposed to further stress. If the bone is broken in several places or is sticking out from the skin, the doctor may need to operate.

Finding a Fracture Surgeon

Since it isn’t clear whether or not toe surgery is necessary until after your consultation, it is best to seek treatment from a surgeon who specializes in fractures. Your friends and family may be able to recommend a great fracture surgeon. Your primary care physician will also be familiar with orthopedists in the area.

As you search for a fracture surgeon, it is important to look for a surgeon who will be able to provide the best possible care. Some key features to look for in a surgeon include:

• Range of services offered – Choose a doctor who offers a wide range of orthopedic services, so that you can keep going to the same orthopedist as different treatment needs arise.
• Experience in the field – The doctor should have at least a few years of experience performing fracture surgeries.
• Bedside manner – The doctor should have good communication skills and bedside manner, so that you feel comfortable enough to discuss your symptoms and ask questions about your treatment.
• Insurance affiliations – Make sure that the doctor takes your insurance before scheduling an appointment.
• Available – Toe fractures usually need to be treated as soon as possible, so you need to find a doctor who has space available to see you.

Top California Surgeon for a Fractured Toe

Dr. Howard Marans, head of OC Orthopedic, is the top California surgeon for a fractured toe. Dr. Marans has worked in the field for decades, and has treated a wide range of orthopedic conditions throughout that time. His patients appreciate his attentive bedside manner and his eye for detail. He accepts most major insurance providers.

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

Shoulder impingement affects thousands of athletes and other individuals each year. If you have shoulder impingement, getting treatment can relieve your symptoms and prevent your injury from getting worse.

Understanding Shoulder Impingement

Impingement occurs as a result of repetitively moving the shoulder over the head, as occurs during swimming, golfing, and playing tennis. When this overuse injury occurs, the space between the top of the shoulder blade and the shoulder muscles becomes smaller, causing them to rub against each other.

Shoulder impingement can be uncomfortable, causing symptoms like pain and a limited range of motion. In addition, issues such as osteoarthritis could eventually develop if the condition is left untreated.

Non-Surgical Treatment Options

Sometimes, shoulder impingement can be treated without surgery. This is most common in cases where the condition is relatively mild and the patient is less physically active. Even if surgery is used to treat the condition, non-surgical methods are usually used along with surgery.

Depending on the nature of the case, the doctor may recommend treatments such as:

• Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE)
• Physical therapy to strengthen the shoulder and improve flexibility
• Medication to reduce inflammation and relieve symptoms
• Corticosteroid injections into the shoulder to relieve inflammation

Arthroscopic Surgery

The majority of shoulder impingement cases can be treated using arthroscopic surgery, which is a minimally invasive form of joint surgery. During this procedure, the doctor creates two or more small incisions in order to access the shoulder. A tiny, telescope-like camera is inserted through one of the incisions, so that the surgeon can see the inside of the joint. Small incisions are inserted through other incisions, allowing the doctor to operate.

When it is appropriate for use, arthroscopic surgery has several advantages over open joint surgery. The risk of certain side effects, like bleeding and infection, is lower. There is no large scar. Additionally, there is no need for a hospital stay – patients can return home the day surgery occurs.

Patients can return to normal activities, such as a desk job, within a relatively short time after arthroscopic surgery. However, it will be longer until patients can return to more physically strenuous activities.

Each case is unique, and only a doctor who is familiar with your case can recommend the best treatment in your case. In addition, your doctor will review the pros and cons of each option so that you can make an informed decision, and will give you detailed information about what you can expect during the recovery period.

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

The ankle is responsible for transferring weight from the entire body to the feet, and for facilitating each step we take. An ankle injury can seriously limit a person’s mobility and inhibit their comfort. In addition, untreated ankle injuries can lead to more serious problems later on. If you are experiencing ankle problems, it is important to visit a skilled ankle surgeon about your diagnosis and treatment.

Ankle Surgery Basics

Some ankle conditions can be treated without surgery, and it is preferable to do so if at all possible. However, surgery is required for severe conditions and for conditions which cannot respond to other treatments. There are two main types of ankle surgery:

• Open ankle surgery – The ankle joint is opened up with a large incision to allow the doctor to have full access. This is usually used for more extensive surgeries, like open reduction and internal fixation or total joint replacement. Open ankle surgery usually requires at least one night in the hospital, and the recovery time can be lengthy in some cases.
• Arthroscopic ankle surgery – Tiny incisions are made near the ankle joint so that the doctor can operate on the joint by inserting small tools and a camera through the incisions. This is usually used for less extensive surgeries, like ligament repairs. The recovery time is shorter with arthroscopic surgery, and the risk of certain side effects, like infection and bleeding, is lower.

How to Choose the Best Ankle Surgeons

There are many issues to consider as you search for ankle surgeons in your area. Some of the key factors include:

• Experience – How long has the surgeon worked in the field? Doctors develop their technical skills and clinical judgment as they gain experience.
• Area of expertise – The doctor should be familiar with patients with your particular condition and needs. For example, if you are an athlete, it is important to visit a doctor who is an expert in sports medicine.
• Bedside manner – Your doctor should take the time to fully address your concerns. Communication is a cornerstone of effective treatment.
• Availability – Ankle surgeries are sometimes time-sensitive. If that is the case, the doctor should be available to provide treatment as soon as it is needed.
• Insurance affiliations – Be sure to choose a doctor who accepts your insurance. If you are not sure whether or not your insurance is accepted, contact your doctor or your insurance provider before scheduling your appointment.

Dr. Howard Marans of OC Orthopedic is one of the top ankle surgeons in California, having treated thousands of patients for ankle problems and other orthopedic issues. Dr. Marans would be happy to meet with you about your ankle injury. To schedule your consultation today, please click below and enter your information or call OC Orthopedic at (714) 979-8981.