AboutRichard Haynes Expertise Questions regarding all types of total joint replacements with emphasis on hips and knees. I also answer questions on fractured femurs and the rehabilitation of each of the above. I assist adults in answering questions regarding exercise and nutrition after orthopedic injuries or joint replacements.
Further information on my services to assist you can be found at www.richardhaynes.com
Experience 14 years working with patients/clients in the acute care and home health setting specializing with orthopedic patients.
Organizations American Council on Exercise since 2000/
Member since 1994 with the American Physical Therapy Association
Education/Credentials Graduated from Saint Petersburg College in 1995 with an associates in Physical Therapy. Personal trainer with the American Council On Exercise.
Question I had a menicus tear in May 2008 in which my doctor "cleaned it up" through arthroscopy. I have had trouble ever since and have seen the doctor 6 times since complaining of pain and knee locking. He has given me steroid shots, NSAIDS and nothing has worked. I have done heat, ice and worn a brace and nothing has helped. He recently did xrays again and another MRI that shows nothing. My knee still locks and I walk with a limp after sitting for 15 minutes. I don't know what to do. I know this is not right and am scared I might have to live with this. Can you tell me if MRI's are not always accurate and what I can do from here?
Answer Hi Susan, I am sorry to hear about this problem you are having. it can be very frustrating no doubt. Now as far as your question is concerned, yes those MRIs can be mis-read. I had one mis-read on me years ago. They are only as good as the individual reading them and the quality of the software that is used.
Providing you did your rehab after the arthroscopic work in May which consisted of several exercises to strengthen the thigh and calf muscles along with range of motion exercises,then we know that is not the problem.
I would seek out another opinion form another orthopedist and see if they recommend another MRI. I would like to think the surgeon cleaned up the area completely, but there could be some debris still floating in the knee joint itself.
You should be feeling much better then you do IF all there was to clean up was a meniscus tear.
X-rays will not show anything in the knee joint but arthritis if there is any. The MRI has to be done and they can give false readings.
Check with another Doctor for another opinion. Other then that you are doing everything someone can do to help the knee with the heat etc...
Good Luck
Richard Haynes
Punta Gorda, Fl.
www.totaljointfitness.com
