Knee pain can make walking, climbing stairs, working and exercising difficult. At Advanced Orthopaedic Associates (AOA) in Wichita, Kansas, our orthopaedic physicians evaluate knee pain and injuries and discuss nonsurgical and surgical treatment options based on the cause of your symptoms.
Whether your pain began after a sudden injury or has developed over time, an evaluation can help you understand what is affecting your knee and which treatment options may be appropriate.
When to see a knee specialist
Consider an evaluation for knee pain that continues, recurrent swelling, stiffness, catching or locking, or a knee that feels unstable or gives way. Tell your physician how symptoms affect your daily activities and whether they began after a fall, twist or other injury.
Knee conditions we evaluate and treat
- Meniscus tears: A tear in the cushioning cartilage of the knee may cause pain, swelling or catching. Treatment depends on the tear and your symptoms.
- ACL and other ligament injuries: Injuries to the structures that stabilize the knee can affect confidence with turning, pivoting or walking.
- Knee arthritis: Changes in the joint cartilage may contribute to stiffness, pain and difficulty with everyday movement.
- Kneecap and tendon problems: Pain around the kneecap, instability and tendon injuries may interfere with bending or straightening the knee.
Nonsurgical care and knee surgery
Not every knee problem requires surgery. Depending on your diagnosis, treatment may include activity changes, physical therapy, medication, bracing or injections. Your physician will explain the benefits and limitations of the options that fit your condition.
When surgery is appropriate, options may include knee arthroscopy, meniscus surgery, ligament reconstruction or knee replacement. Arthroscopy uses a small camera and instruments to treat selected problems inside the joint. Knee replacement addresses damaged joint surfaces and may be considered for advanced arthritis. These procedures serve different purposes; your surgeon will explain which, if any, is appropriate.
Preparing for treatment and recovery
Your visit includes a discussion of your symptoms and a knee examination. X-rays or other imaging may be recommended. If surgery is planned, your team will discuss preparation, risks, rehabilitation and follow-up. Recovery and activity restrictions depend on the procedure and your individual needs.
Knee specialists at AOA
View the knee specialists below to learn about their areas of care. To request a knee evaluation in Wichita, call (316) 631-1600 or use our appointment request link.
- Scott C. Adrian, MD
Sports Medicine, Arthroscopic Surgery, Shoulder Arthroplasty, Shoulder, Elbow, Knee, Hip Surgery - Christopher L. Anderson, MD
Adult Reconstructive Surgery, Joint Replacements (Hip & Knee), Joint - Paul A. Enns, MD
Adult Reconstructive Surgery, Joint Replacements (Hip & Knee), Joint - Phillip F. Hagan, MD
Evaluation & Treatment of Knee and Shoulder Pain, Shoulder Surgery, Knee Surgery, Sports Medicine, Arthroscopy, Shoulder Replacement - Thomas J. Hendricks, MD
Adult Reconstructive Surgery, Joint Replacements (Hip & Knee), Joint - Hayley L. Jansson, MD
Sports Medicine, Arthroscopic Surgery, Knee and Shoulder Surgery - Brennen L. Lucas, MD
Sports Medicine, Arthroscopic Surgery, Knee and Shoulder Surgery, Shoulder Replacement and Reverse Shoulder Replacement - Paul C. Pappademos, MD
Adult Reconstructive Surgery, Joint Replacements (Hip & Knee), Joint - Daniel J. Prohaska, MD
Sports Medicine, Arthroscopic Surgery, Knee and Shoulder Surgery, Sports Related Elbow Injuries Only, Shoulder Replacement - Jeffrey T. Shepherd, MD
Adult Reconstructive Surgery, Joint Replacements (Hip & Knee), Joint