Hip replacement is a surgical procedure to replace a damaged hip joint with an artificial one. It alleviates pain and improves joint function for individuals suffering from severe arthritis, fractures, or other conditions. The artificial components that replace existing bones and cartilage mimic the hip joint’s natural movement to relieve pain and allow for smoother motion.
For many patients, we can alleviate hip pain through non-surgical treatments or medication. Physical therapy and lifestyle changes are powerful remedies that can reduce discomfort and facilitate movement along with oral medications or injections. But if you’ve tried these strategies and they don’t or no longer work, it may be time to consider hip replacement surgery.
Determining whether you need hip replacement surgery involves a comprehensive evaluation. Our doctors will evaluate factors such as your overall health, pain levels, and how hip pain affects your daily life. We’ll do this by discussing your medical history and performing physical examinations to review imaging and assess your range of motion and hip strength. We will use imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI scans to visualize the damage within your hip.
If you struggle with routine activities due to your hip pain and have significant joint damage, you’re likely a strong candidate for the procedure.
Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics can perform several types of hip replacement surgery, depending on a patient’s needs. The most common procedure is a total hip replacement. This involves replacing both the ball and the socket of the hip joint. This is necessary in cases of severe damage. On the other hand, we may suggest a partial hip replacement to replace only the ball of the joint after specific fractures.
Our surgeons typically use general and spinal anesthesia to ensure our patients’ comfort during hip replacement. The process then begins with a small incision near the hip to access your hip joint. We’ll remove damaged cartilage and bone before placing new prosthetic components in their place. The entire process will take a few hours.
After surgery, we’ll take you to a recovery room so that we can monitor your vital signs. We’ll encourage you to start moving your joint when you can and discharge you typically the same day or the next morning. Regardless of the scope of your hip replacement surgery, we’ll outline the entire process before you arrive.
Recovery from hip replacement varies among individuals. Most patients experience some swelling and discomfort immediately after surgery, but it will fade relatively quickly. You’ll likely be able to resume your regular activities within a few weeks, but it may take several months to regain full strength and mobility. You can accelerate the recovery process by adhering to our physical therapy instructions and exercising on your own. We’ll also schedule regular follow-up appointments to monitor progress and set realistic goals.
The benefits of hip replacement surgery extend beyond physical relief. Of course, you’ll feel better, but that means you’ll also have better movement and the ability to engage in activities. This will lead to a healthier overall lifestyle and mental well-being. Reduced pain and improved joint function are the first steps toward having a better outlook on life in general.
Don’t let persistent hip pain prevent you from living a happy, active life. Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics offers solutions including hip replacement surgery at our locations in Carmel, Greenwood, Noblesville, and Tipton, IN. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and begin the path toward better mobility.
Knee replacement surgery involves replacing worn or damaged parts of the knee with artificial components. These components replicate the knee’s natural movement, relieving pain and improving functionality. Our surgeons are highly skilled in using state-of-the-art equipment to ensure these metal or plastic elements mimic your knee’s structure to help you regain stability.
We perform knee replacement surgery on patients suffering from a wide range of issues causing knee pain. Our team often treats osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis with knee replacements. These conditions wear down the knee’s cartilage, leading to pain and stiffness. New parts will remedy the problem quickly and effectively.
Our expert physicians also use knee replacement surgery to address injuries to the knee joint. Damage from sports or other accidents can create mobility issues that may only be resolved with surgery. Our goal is to restore function and relieve pain so that our patients can resume their regular activities.
Not everyone is a great candidate for knee replacement surgery. We typically reserve it for individuals who experience chronic knee pain that significantly affects their lives. Our knee specialists are happy to explore other treatment options before resorting to a procedure. Non-surgical options such as physical therapy or medication may do the trick.
However, if you think you might need surgery, our doctors will consider factors including your condition, lifestyle, and overall health to make an assessment. Prime candidates for knee replacement surgery are those with arthritis, athletes with severe injuries, and anyone for whom knee issues are debilitating.
Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics performs two main types of knee replacement surgeries: total and partial. The more extensive option involves replacing the entire knee joint. We reserve this procedure for people with widespread damage. On the other hand, partial knee replacement is less invasive. We can target and replace specific areas within one’s knee. If damage is confined, we’ll opt for this method because it has a shorter recovery period and less post-operative pain.
Understanding what happens during knee replacement surgery will ease your concerns. That’s why we explain the process completely before your surgery day. We’ll begin the procedure by administering anesthesia to ensure you remain comfortable. Our surgeon will then make a small incision to access the knee joint and remove damaged tissue, cartilage, or bone.
Next, we’ll place the artificial knee components where they belong. We must carefully align them to guarantee proper joint movement. Finally, we’ll close the incision and move you to a recovery area. The entire surgery should take less than an hour or so, but that could vary depending on your situation.
Recovery is crucial after knee replacement. Initially, you’ll need help moving around. Physical therapy typically starts within a day or two. These first sessions focus on regaining movement and strengthening the knee. As you progress, the objectives may shift. Full recovery will take several months. You can speed up the process with regular exercise, and we’ll help you every step of the way.
Knee replacement surgery offers numerous benefits. The most significant is pain relief, allowing you to engage in daily activities without discomfort. Additionally, you’ll notice improved mobility, which will ease your trips up and down stairs or walking around in public.
Most notably, your quality of life will improve. With reduced pain and increased comfort, you won’t have any limitations on the fun activities you can enjoy.
If chronic knee pain is keeping you from doing what you love, it may be time for knee replacement surgery at Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics. We have convenient locations in Carmel, Greenwood, Noblesville, and Tipton to serve you. Following a consultation, our experts will tailor a treatment plan that ensures the best possible outcome. Contact us today to get started.
Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, is most commonly a repetitive strain injury that causes pain and swelling in one’s elbow. More specifically, it is degeneration/microtears on the lateral side of the extensor muscle tendon. It differs from golfer’s elbow in one key regard. With tennis elbow, one experiences pain on the outside edge of his or her arm when held to the side with palms facing forward. In golfer’s elbow or pitcher’s elbow, pain presents on the medial side. Tennis elbow is one of the most common causes of elbow discomfort, affecting roughly 3% of Americans annually, according to expert estimates.
Although tennis elbow got its name from the popular sport, most individuals develop the injury through other practices. It can arise from any repeated arm movement that may aggravate the extensor muscle tendon. In addition to overuse from racket sports, tennis elbow causes include weightlifting, carpentry, painting, typing, yard work, household duties and knitting. While it can occur at any age, it is most prevalent among individuals between 30 and 60 years old who overuse their arms in routine or athletic activities.
At Forté Sports Medicine in Central Indiana, our staff will carefully examine your condition and symptoms before issuing a tennis elbow diagnosis. Common tennis elbow symptoms that may prompt a visit to one of our state-of-the-art clinics include:
When one or more of these indicators are present, we will perform an evaluation that includes a physical exam and potentially a range of imaging tests. We can accurately assess any damage using one or a combination of X-rays, MRI and electromyography.
Following a patient’s tennis elbow diagnosis, Forté Sports Medicine’s staff will craft a unique treatment plan to ensure pain-free movement and prevent recurring issues. We will carefully construct each plan based on factors including the cause of injury as well as our patient’s age and overall health. Among the options for restoring elbow strength and stability are:
Patients throughout Central Indiana trust Forté Sports Medicine for exceptional care related to sports injuries affecting body parts from head to toe. We have specialized equipment at our locations in Carmel, Greenwood, Noblesville and Tipton as well as decades’ worth of collective experience from our friendly, knowledgeable physicians. Contact us today for high-quality tennis elbow treatment that will guarantee a speedy recovery.
More than 100 diseases fall under the umbrella of arthritis, which affects roughly one in five adults in some capacity. Arthritis encompasses all forms of joint inflammation and can affect people of all ages. However, it is more common as we grow older and the cartilage or tissue around our joints ages. In addition to lifelong use, acute injuries or health conditions may result in arthritis. Damaged cartilage, tissues, or ligaments will ultimately impact your bones’ comfort and stability. Subsequent inflammation, a natural bodily response, causes pain and limited movement, among other symptoms. The most common afflicted joints include hands and wrists, knees, hips, feet and ankles, shoulders and lower back.
Among the most pivotal elements of developing a successful treatment plan for you will be identifying which type of arthritis you have. Common forms include:
There is no singular cause of arthritis, as the disease can arise from factors including age, heredity, physical conditions and overuse. Moreover, many forms of arthritis are caused by a combination of issues. Understanding our patients’ unique backgrounds and conditions helps the staff at Forté Sports Medicine recognize the types of arthritis present and how to care for them. When assessing individuals in our clinics, we evaluate potential causes such as:
Upon diagnosing your arthritis based on a thorough physical exam, the experts at Forté Sports Medicine will devise a complete arthritis treatment plan and facilitate your care at one of our clinics. Depending on your form of arthritis and its cause, our treatment options will typically feature one or more of the following:
Forté Sports Medicine has generations of satisfied patients and success stories, and we are eager to help you become our next. You may conveniently use our patient portal or request an appointment online. Contact us today for arthritis care in Central, IN.
Shoulder replacement surgery is a procedure that involves removing damaged parts of your shoulder and replacing them with artificial components. Its goal is pain relief and improved joint function. The shoulder is complex, allowing for a wide range of motion. As such, several injuries or conditions could affect the joint. These include arthritis, rotator cuff tears, and more. If you’re a candidate for the procedure, we’ll explain all it entails and ensure your comfort during an evaluation with our team.
Our goal with any type of injury is to find a simple, comfortable solution. The shoulder specialists at Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics often recommend physical therapy exercises or medications as an initial step toward improving pain and mobility. But if these don’t resolve your problem, a total shoulder replacement may be in order. Individuals who need shoulder replacement surgery are those who experience such severe pain that they can’t perform daily activities. Seniors often qualify due to arthritis-related joint damage, but age isn’t the only factor. Our highly trained doctors will perform a thorough evaluation before suggesting surgery.
During your thorough evaluation at Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics, our orthopedic specialists will review your medical history and conduct physical examinations. We may even order imaging tests such as X-rays or CTs to assess the extent of your joint damage. This comprehensive assessment will allow us to make an informed decision about your shoulder condition and the best treatment plan for it. We will only pursue surgery if it’s absolutely necessary.
Understanding what happens during a total shoulder replacement can alleviate anxiety and help you prepare. Therefore, we’ll provide step-by-step instructions regarding what to do before arriving at our clinic and what you can expect during the process. Most patients undergoing shoulder replacement will be required to see our pre-admission testing center to ensure they are medically optimized for surgery. The procedure typically lasts a few hours. We’ll start by putting you under anesthesia so that you won’t feel pain during the surgery. We’ll then use specialized tools and advanced techniques to remove all damaged parts of your shoulder joint and replace them with high-quality artificial alternatives. Most patients go home the same day, but a minority of patients may need to stay the night dependent on pre-existing medical condition.
Recovery from total shoulder replacement surgery is a gradual process. You’ll likely experience pain and swelling initially, but we can help you manage these symptoms with medication. Rest is also crucial in the first few days following surgery. However, physical therapy is the most important element of the recovery process. You should be able to begin restoring movement and strength shortly after surgery. You can then resume light activities within a few weeks and normal activities in a couple of months. We’ll help you monitor progress and make suggestions to expedite recovery.
Pain relief is the most noticeable benefit of shoulder replacement surgery, but it is far from the only one. Patients also experience significantly improved mobility. This is vital because it allows them to enjoy activities that were once difficult or impossible. Moreover, a greater range of motion can lead to a better quality of life and increased independence. With proper exercise and care, the results of shoulder replacement surgery will be long-lasting, so you can enjoy pain-free movement for years to come.
Chronic shoulder pain doesn’t have to be a permanent obstacle. Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics can personalize a shoulder replacement surgery solution for you at any of our convenient locations in Carmel, Greenwood, Noblesville, or Tipton, Indiana. We’re standing by to discuss your symptoms, evaluate your condition, and devise a treatment plan, so contact us today.
A herniated disc occurs when the soft inner gel in the spinal disc pushes out through a tear in the tougher outer layer. This can lead to pressure on nearby nerves, resulting in pain, weakness, or numbness in the arms or legs. At the first sign of a herniated disc, you should seek medical advice for a proper diagnosis and treatment options.
A herniated disc might only cause you minimal pain, but in most cases, patients feel significant discomfort from the condition. Know the warning signs of a herniated disc so you can seek treatment right away. This condition can feel different from patient to patient, but most people report one or more of these symptoms:
• Sharp, sustained pains
• Dull aches
• Numbness or tingling in one leg (sciatica)
• Muscle weakness
• Shooting pain down the arms and legs
Some people are at higher risk of getting a herniated disc than others. If any of the following conditions apply to you, be especially vigilant for herniated disc symptoms:
• Aging—With age, our bodies naturally weaken. Older individuals may have more trouble with herniated discs, although younger people may also develop the condition. The dehydration of the discs over time reduces their ability to act as shock absorbers, and consequently, they become more prone to damage.
• Genetics—Some people have a genetic predisposition to disc degeneration. Certain genes may contribute more to conditions that cause or exacerbate disc herniation.
• Lifestyle—Things like poor posture, obesity, and lack of adequate exercise can all put undue stress on the spine, causing discs to weaken and potentially herniate.
• Occupation—Jobs that require heavy lifting and repetitive movements can lead to spinal injuries and herniated discs.
The first step to avoiding a herniated disc is understanding what causes them. While sometimes an injury is inevitable, knowing what you’re up against goes a long way to prevention. Here are a few primary causes of herniated discs:
• Heavy Lifting—Do you have a strenuous job? Or lift heavy weights at the gym. Keep in mind that heavy lifting is a top cause of herniated discs. This excess strain on the lower back can rupture a disc’s outer layer, leading to the displacement of the inner material.
• Repetitive Strain— Repetitive activities, particularly those involving the back, can also result in disc herniation. Over time, these movements can damage the discs, leading to weakness and eventual herniation.
• Sports Injuries—Participation in certain sports, especially those with a high risk of falls or impacts, can lead to disc herniation if the spine undergoes sudden, forceful trauma.
• Natural Degeneration—Natural degeneration over time causes discs to dry out and weaken, making them more prone to herniation. Although this is a normal part of aging, patients can still find relief through herniated disc treatment.
Herniated disc treatment can vary from person to person. Depending on the severity of your pain, our team of experts may recommend a different approach. Learn more about these ways to treat a herniated disc:
Many types of medication have proven useful for alleviating herniated disc pain. In addition to avoiding movements that cause discomfort, patients can benefit from the following medicines:
• Over-the-counter medication, like acetaminophen and ibuprofen
• Neuropathic drugs
• Muscle relaxers
• Cortisone injections
Physical therapy and rehabilitation can help alleviate herniated disc pain. Our specialists in this type of medical care can instruct you on practical exercises and positions that minimize pain. At Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics, we offer rehabilitation services beyond herniated discs, such as orthotics, dry needling and hydroworx therapy.
While most cases of herniated discs are treated with less invasive methods, sometimes surgery is necessary especially if arm or leg weakness is developing. If conservative treatments have not brought you significant relief, our specialists may recommend a surgical procedure in which the protruding part of the disc is removed. Should surgery be needed to repair your herniated disc, we will explain the process in depth and prepare you for not only surgery, but for rehabilitation to come thereafter.
They say prevention is the best medicine—and they’re right! While herniated discs are often not avoidable, you do have ways to lower your chances of developing this condition. Here are our tips for preventing a herniated disc in the long run:
• Maintain a Healthy Weight— Excess weight can strain the lower back and increase the likelihood of disc herniation. We recommend speaking with your physician for personalized advice about weight management.
• Exercise Regularly— Engaging in regular exercise that includes strength training and flexibility can help support the back and reduce the risk of injury and chronic back pain.
• Practice Proper Posture—Adopting good posture while sitting, standing, and walking can keep the spine properly aligned. When it comes to lifting, use the legs and keep the back straight to protect the spine from unnecessary stress.
• Avoid Sitting for Long Periods—If you tend to sit for long periods of time, be sure to get up and move or stretch occasionally. Being proactive helps prevent undue strain on the spine.
• Use Ergonomic Furniture—For those who sit for the whole workday, ergonomic furniture is an excellent investment. These items can ensure the body is adequately supported while working.
A herniated disc is painful and treatment should be sought right away. The team at Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics provides consultation to help you work toward a pain-free life in our Carmel, Greenwood, Noblesville and Tipton offices. Contact us today to for a customized treatment plan.
To understand plantar fasciitis, we first need to know a little about the plantar fascia itself. This thick band of tissue runs across the bottom of your foot, connecting your heel bone to your toes, and supports the arch of your foot. When this ligament is overused or overstretched, it can become inflamed and uncomfortable. This inflammation and degeneration often characterized by stabbing pains in the feet, is diagnosed as plantar fasciitis.
Plantar fasciitis might occur for a combination of several reasons. When you visit Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics, we’ll evaluate your condition and may be able to pinpoint a cause. Here are the most common culprits behind plantar fasciitis:
The main symptom of plantar fasciitis is intense pain in the heel, especially when first taking steps in the morning. Discomfort is also prominent after prolonged periods of sitting, standing, or exercising. Beyond that, patients with plantar fasciitis may experience stiffness or tenderness in the bottom of the foot, making it even more challenging to walk comfortably.
If you suspect that you have plantar fasciitis, it is essential to consult a specialist for a proper diagnosis. Your doctor may recommend treatments ranging from rest and ice to physical therapy or orthotics. In rare cases, surgery may be considered. Here are the two primary ways we diagnose plantar fasciitis:
Thankfully, plantar fasciitis treatment is often straightforward. The majority of patients recover within a few months without any invasive treatment. However, it’s important to remember that every case is different, and you should speak with your physician before banking on any one treatment. Learn more about the most common ways of addressing plantar fasciitis:
Medication is a tried-and-true plantar fasciitis treatment. Many effective pain relievers, including ibuprofen and naproxen, are available without a prescription.
In combination with pain relievers, lifestyle changes can go a long way to relieving pain. Start stretching more often and switch to exercises that are easier on your feet. Try modifying or avoiding activities that trigger your plantar fasciitis pain.
Physical therapy is often instrumental in relieving plantar fasciitis pain. Our trained specialist can explain the best exercises to stretch the plantar fascia and strengthen the appropriate leg muscles. In conjunction with physical therapy, we may recommend these types of medical equipment:
Most of the time, plantar fasciitis is effectively treated with medication, lifestyle changes, and therapy. However, some stubborn cases require more intensive measures. If your plantar fasciitis doesn’t respond to typical treatment, we may recommend one of the following:
Plantar fasciitis is very common and keeps too many people from enjoying their daily lives. While plantar fasciitis can sideline you from your favorite activities, preventative measures can help to prevent this condition. Everyone is different, and what works for one person may not work well for another. However, here are general guidelines for preventing plantar fasciitis:
Understanding the causes and risk factors of plantar fasciitis can empower athletes and everyday individuals to take proactive steps in foot care. Don’t ignore heel pain, hoping it will just go away—proper attention and care can get you back on your feet, pain-free. If plantar fasciitis is making your life difficult, make an appointment at Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics. Our specialists in Carmel, Greenwood, Noblesville and Tipton are dedicated to creating a customized treatment plan for you.
Our joint replacement specialists do hundreds of joint replacement surgeries each year, using the latest techniques and technologies to help you get the best results and fastest recovery.
Using advanced techniques and technologies and working with the best available implant materials, we provide a wide range of pre and post-surgical—as well as non-surgical—options for managing your symptoms.
Our Forté Fast orthopedic urgent care clinic in Noblesville will close at 11:00 am on Friday, December 20th.
Our Tipton office will be closed on Monday, December 23rd.
All Forté locations will be closed Tuesday, December 24th - Wednesday, December 25th for the holiday.
