Treating Cartilage Injuries in Cherry Hill
Have you, or has someone you love, experienced a cartilage injury? If so, you are probably facing the sudden realization that this small element of your musculoskeletal system plays an important role in your ability to comfortably perform everyday activities. At
Rothman Orthopaedic Institute, we treat cartilage injuries in Cherry Hill on a regular basis, and that experience has given our specialists a unique level of expertise in this area. So, we want to help you and your loved ones with important information about initial responses to cartilage injuries in your area. Cartilage injuries can happen in a number of different ways. Some of them occur slowly, through the wear and tear of regular use or even overuse. Others can happen in an instant, during an accident or a fall. In both cases, however, you will most likely recognize the injury through common symptoms; pain and swelling, especially when using the joint. In some cases of traumatic cartilage injuries, you may also notice the sensation of the joint getting stuck or locked; these symptoms can be a symptom of a piece of cartilage or bone that may have become detached and is loose within the joint. If you have noticed symptoms of cartilage injuries in Cherry Hill, such as those listed above, it is important to take action as soon as possible. First and foremost, the injured person should cease from the activities which are causing pain until an appointment can be made with a sports medicine physician. At a diagnostic appointment, you can expect your doctor to perform a physical examination and ask about symptoms and medical history. Additionally, an MRI scan will most likely be used to get a clearer picture of the injury. However, if it is suspected that there may also be a loose body in the joint, the doctor may also call for an X-ray, which will show any injuries to the bones of the joint as well. After the injury has been diagnosed, your doctor will begin to talk with you about what treatment options are available to you. Typically, cartilage does not heal sufficiently on its own, and a medical procedure is often required. Common treatment options include arthroscopy to “smooth” injured cartilage, a transplant, or removal of loose bodies from the joint. For more information about treatment for cartilage injuries in Cherry Hill, please contact Rothman Orthopaedic Institute today by calling 1.800.321.9999.
