Orthopaedic and sports injury FAQs

An orthopedic doctor diagnoses and treats conditions affecting bones, joints, muscles, ligaments and tendons. At ArthroSport in Salem, Dr. Karthiekeyan Ganesan provides focused care for shoulder, knee, sports injuries, arthroscopy and rehabilitation. Treatment is individualized according to the diagnosis, symptoms and functional goals.

Consider an orthopaedic evaluation when joint pain persists, recurs, causes swelling or stiffness, limits activity or follows an injury. Knee and shoulder pain can have several causes, including ligament, meniscus, cartilage, tendon and joint problems. Clinical assessment helps determine the appropriate treatment.

No. Many orthopaedic conditions can be managed without surgery using activity modification, medication when appropriate, physiotherapy and structured rehabilitation. Surgery is considered when it is clinically indicated, such as for selected unstable ligament injuries, symptomatic meniscus tears or recurrent shoulder instability.

Sports medicine involves prevention, diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation of musculoskeletal injuries related to sports, exercise and physical activity. Common problems include ACL injuries, meniscus tears, shoulder instability, rotator cuff injuries, ankle sprains and other sports-related injuries.

An MRI may be recommended when a clinician suspects injury to structures such as the ACL, meniscus, cartilage or other soft tissues, especially when symptoms persist or examination suggests internal derangement. MRI findings should be interpreted together with symptoms and clinical examination.

Yes. Many sports injuries can initially be managed with rehabilitation, activity modification and progressive strengthening. Treatment depends on the injury and its severity. Certain complete ligament injuries, unstable injuries or mechanically significant tears may require surgery.

Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical technique in which a small camera is introduced into a joint through a small incision. It can be used to diagnose and treat selected knee, shoulder, ankle and elbow conditions, including ACL injuries, meniscus tears, rotator cuff tears and shoulder instability.

No. Not every ACL tear requires reconstruction. Treatment depends on knee stability, activity level, sporting requirements, associated meniscus or ligament injuries and response to rehabilitation. Some patients can function well with structured rehabilitation, while ACL reconstruction may be considered for selected patients with persistent instability or specific sporting requirements.

A completely ruptured ACL has limited ability to restore its original structure. However, selected patients may manage symptoms and function without ACL reconstruction through rehabilitation and activity modification. Suitability depends on knee stability, associated injuries and functional requirements.

ACL reconstruction may be considered when a patient has persistent instability, wants to return to pivoting or cutting activities, or has associated injuries that influence treatment. The decision should be individualized after clinical examination, imaging and discussion of activity requirements and treatment options. Ask your treating team about milestones for walking, work, driving and sport. These can differ considerably and should be planned separately.

No. Many meniscus tears can be treated without surgery depending on symptoms, tear pattern, location, age, activity level and associated injuries. Treatment may include rehabilitation and activity modification. Arthroscopic repair or other surgery may be considered for selected symptomatic tears.

Meniscus repair is an arthroscopic procedure designed to preserve and repair suitable meniscal tissue rather than remove it. Repair is considered when the tear pattern, location and tissue quality provide reasonable potential for healing and preservation is appropriate. If the knee becomes locked and cannot straighten, seek prompt medical assessment.

No. Treatment depends on the type and size of the tear, symptoms, functional limitations, age, activity level and response to non-surgical treatment. Many patients can initially be treated with rehabilitation and activity modification. Arthroscopic repair may be considered for selected symptomatic tears.

A shoulder dislocation should be evaluated promptly by a medical professional. Do not attempt to relocate the shoulder yourself. X-rays may be required, followed by appropriate immobilization and rehabilitation. Further treatment depends on age, activity level, recurrence and associated injuries.

Initial management usually focuses on protecting the injured ankle while allowing appropriate movement as symptoms permit. Pain and swelling should be managed, followed by progressive restoration of movement, strength, balance and function. Severe pain, inability to bear weight or suspected fracture should prompt medical evaluation.

Structured rehabilitation is an essential component of recovery after ACL reconstruction. Rehabilitation generally progresses through stages focusing on movement, swelling control, muscle strength, balance, running, agility and sport-specific function.

Return to sport should not be based only on a calendar date. The knee should demonstrate appropriate movement, strength, stability and functional performance, and the athlete should progress through sport-specific rehabilitation before returning to competitive activity.

A return-to-sport assessment evaluates whether an athlete has regained the physical and functional abilities required for their sport. Depending on the injury, assessment may include strength, movement quality, balance, agility and sport-specific functional testing.

A multi-ligament knee injury occurs when more than one major stabilizing ligament is injured. These injuries can involve the ACL, PCL, MCL, LCL or associated structures. Treatment can be complex and requires detailed assessment and individualized surgical and rehabilitation planning. A major knee injury with deformity, a cold foot or new numbness needs emergency assessment.

Yes. A second orthopaedic opinion can be useful when you are uncertain about a diagnosis, treatment recommendation or whether surgery is appropriate. Bring previous consultation records, X-rays, MRI scans and reports so the diagnosis and treatment options can be reviewed comprehensively.