Plano Clinic
2301 Marsh Lane, Suite 300
Plano, TX 75093
972-231-7100
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transcutaneous lumbar disc resection spine surgery

This minimally invasive spine procedure can be done in place of a complex spinal fusion or laminectomy.

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Dr. Richard Marks has provided advanced surgical care to relieve back pain in more than 5,000 discs.

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Dr. Marks has performed more Transcutaneous Lumbar Disc resections than anyone in the U.S.

Archive for the ‘Knee Pain’ Category

Tips to Avoid Knee Pain When Running

knee painNo matter how much or run – or how often you run – the risk of developing knee pain is always present. Running is hard on knee joints, whether you’re just out on your daily jog or you’re undergoing intensive training for a marathon. Here are some of the things you can do to reduce the chances of being hurt.

Be Selective in Your Footwear

Choosing the right shoes is critically important when it comes to reducing knee pain when running. Not only is the proper amount of cushioning a must, you also need to find a shoe that fits correctly. Pay special attention to getting the right width of shoe. Also, since many types of running shoes on the market today don’t provide a great deal of support, you should consider buying a quality insert. The best ones are a bit stiff; if you can bend it very easily, that is a sign it won’t give you the support you need.

Don’t Forget to Stretch

You simply cannot underestimate the importance of stretching before your run – not only is it good for your knees, it will help several other areas of your body. In addition to reducing the chance of developing knee pain, it can also help protect against injuries such as shin splints, hip problems and foot cramping.

Know Your Limits

Far too many runners overdo it and pay a significant price as a result. As soon as the weather becomes consistently warm, they immediately start running long distances. Start out slowly and gradually build yourself up to long runs. If you are a serious runner, make sure you rest at least a day or two each week.

Dr. Richard A. Marks is a Plano orthopedic surgeon who has a great deal of experience treating knee pain. If you would like to schedule an appointment, call our office at 972-301-2866 or contact us online.

Arthroscopic Meniscus Tear Surgery – What to Expect

Arthroscopic Meniscus Tear SurgeryArthroscopic meniscus tear surgery is becoming an increasingly popular option to repair torn cartilage. In many instances, it is performed on an outpatient basis using a range of minimally invasive procedures. If you have suffered an injury, here is some information on what you can likely expect should you need to have surgery.

The type of surgery used will often depend on the area of the knee where the tear is located, the size of the tear, and other factors. In addition, your doctor will take your health, activity level and age into account.

How it Works

Arthroscopic meniscus tear surgery uses a thin tube known as an arthroscope that contains a light and a camera. The surgeon makes small incisions in the area and then inserts the arthroscope. Surgical instruments are then inserted through additional small incisions and then the meniscus is repaired using anchors or sutures.

The Recovery Period

There is a chance your surgeon will ask you to move your knee as little as possible for about two weeks after your arthroscopic meniscus tear surgery takes place. Then, you may be somewhat limited for another two weeks before you can get back to your regular, daily activities. However, your doctor may recommend that you begin physical therapy as soon as your surgery is done. Any sort of heavy activity, such as intense exercise or extended running, should be postponed for a few months. In order to heal in the most efficient manner possible, it will be very important that you follow your doctor’s rehabilitation directions to the letter.

In time, arthroscopic meniscus tear surgery should help your knee return to normal. An added benefit is that it could help prevent long-term issues such as osteoarthritis.

Plano orthopedic surgeon Dr. Richard A. Marks has extensive experience in performing arthroscopic meniscus tear surgery. He will thoroughly explain the type of procedure you may need so that you are as well informed as possible before your surgery. If you would like to schedule an appointment, contact our office online or call 972-301-2866.

Physical Therapy for Knee Pain

knee painPeople who suffer from knee pain can either have the problem surgically repaired or pursue non-surgical options. Physical therapy is one way to reduce pain and restore strength, and has proven very effective for a large number of people. If your doctor recommends this alternative, here is some information on what you can expect.

Getting Started

Before you start your physical therapy program for your knee pain, the therapist will probably ask you a lot of questions about your medical history. Your therapist will not just have your knee condition in mind, but your overall health as well. Once your sessions begin, he or she should always be nearby making sure you can get through the exercises – the therapist should not simply assign you an exercise and then leave.

You’ll be shown the correct form in order to perform whatever work your therapist asks you to do. He or she will continue to ask how you feel and what level of knee pain you are experiencing. More than likely, you will attend sessions two or three times a week, and your therapy will probably last anywhere from 3-6 weeks. The more severe your issue, of course, the longer your therapy will likely last.

You may also receive other treatments in order to reduce your pain. These may include ultrasound therapy to stimulate your muscles and increase blood flow, as well as alternating ice and heat treatments.

Extra Help

There is a chance that your doctor will recommend you use a supportive aid such as crutches while you are going through therapy. You may use a cane or you may need to wear a brace in order to provide further support. It’s extremely important that you learn to use whatever type of aid is recommended correctly so that you don’t risk further injury.

The Dallas area experts at the office of Dr. Richard A. Marks can help alleviate your knee pain so you can once again pursue the activities you love. Give us a call at 972-301-2866 or contact us online to learn more.