Patient Information Resources


Orthogate
1089 Spadina Road
Toronto, AL M5N 2M7
Ph: 416-483-2654
Fax: 416-483-2654
christian@orthogate.com






Ankle
Child Orthopedics
Elbow
Foot
General
Hand
Hip
Knee
Shoulder
Spine - Cervical
Spine - Lumbar
Spine - Thoracic
Wrist

View Web RX

« Back

I had a very nasty run-in on my bicycle with a semi-truck. I ended up with a severely dislocated knee. The surgeon told me I would probably end up with a total knee replacement sometime soon. Is there any way to delay or even prevent this from happening?

Traumatic knee dislocations are fairly rare so we don't have a lot of data from high-quality studies to base treatment recommendations on. The surgeon assesses the damage; takes into consideration the patient's age, general health, and activity level; and formulates the best plan of action possible. Most of the time, knee injuries severe enough to cause the joint to dislocate also cause significant soft tissue damage. Multiple ligaments are torn or ruptured requiring surgery. There can also be damage to the nerves and blood vessels in the knee creating even more complications. Although there's no way to predict for sure the final result being a joint replacement, there are ways to work against that outcome. A rehab program aimed at increasing joint stability through muscle strengthening is advised. The physical therapist will check for any postural problems that might add uneven load or force to the joint and help you achieve better alignment if possible. Specific training will be needed to restore joint proprioception (joint sense of position) and kinesthesia (awareness of movement). Rehab to prevent joint replacement is the type of approach that requires some discipline and dedication on your part. You won't be able to follow the exercise program for six weeks and call it quits. This type of prevention requires ongoing perserverance. But it can pay off in the end as many patients (especially athletes) can report.

References:

« Back





*Disclaimer:*The information contained herein is compiled from a variety of sources. It may not be complete or timely. It does not cover all diseases, physical conditions, ailments or treatments. The information should NOT be used in place of visit with your healthcare provider, nor should you disregard the advice of your health care provider because of any information you read in this topic.


All content provided by eORTHOPOD® is a registered trademark of Mosaic Medical Group, L.L.C.. Content is the sole property of Mosaic Medical Group, LLC and used herein by permission.