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Comprehensive Patient FAQ Guide

Comprehensive Patient FAQ Guide

SoCal Orthopedics & Sports Medicine

Comprehensive Patient FAQ Guide

100+ Answers to Your Most Important Orthopedic Questions

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General & First Visit

What to expect and how to get started with orthopedic care

What does an orthopedic surgeon do?

An orthopedic surgeon specializes in diagnosing, treating, and preventing conditions affecting the bones, joints, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. At SoCal Orthopedics, our surgeons treat everything from sports injuries and fractures to complex joint replacements using both surgical and non-surgical approaches.

You should see an orthopedic doctor if you experience persistent joint pain, limited range of motion, recurring sports injuries, fractures, or pain that interferes with daily activities. If conservative care like rest or physical therapy hasn’t helped within a few weeks, an orthopedic evaluation is recommended.

Bring a list of your current medications, any imaging (X-rays, MRIs), insurance cards, and a description of your symptoms — when they started, what makes them better or worse. Wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the affected area. Arrive 15 minutes early to complete paperwork.

It depends on your insurance plan. PPO plans typically do not require a referral, while HMO plans may require one from your primary care physician. We recommend checking with your insurance carrier before scheduling.

“Bone doctor” is a common informal term that usually refers to an orthopedic surgeon. Orthopedic surgeons are trained specialists who treat conditions of the entire musculoskeletal system — bones, joints, cartilage, muscles, and tendons — using both surgical and non-surgical methods.

Go to urgent care or the emergency room for severe fractures, open wounds, severe swelling with inability to bear weight, suspected dislocations, or limb-threatening injuries. Schedule an orthopedic appointment for chronic pain, sports injuries without acute emergency, joint pain, or follow-up care after initial ER treatment.

Hip Replacement

Recovery timelines, restrictions, and what to expect

How long does a hip replacement last?

Modern hip implants are designed to last 20 to 30 years or more. With advances in implant materials and robotic-assisted surgery like the Mako system, longevity has improved significantly. Activity level, body weight, and implant type all influence how long your replacement lasts.

There is no single “best” age. Hip replacement is recommended based on the severity of pain and functional limitation, not age alone. Most patients undergo hip replacement in their 50s through 70s, but younger patients with severe arthritis or injury may also benefit. Your surgeon will evaluate your individual case.

Yes, most patients can resume sexual activity 6 to 8 weeks after hip replacement. Your surgeon will advise on safe positions that avoid hip dislocation during early recovery. It is important to follow precautionary movement guidelines for the first 3 months.

Most patients can resume driving 4 to 6 weeks after surgery, provided the surgery was on the right hip and you are no longer taking narcotic pain medication. If the left hip was replaced, you may be cleared sooner. Always confirm with your surgeon before getting behind the wheel.

Most patients report that recovery pain is manageable with prescribed medications and physical therapy. The first 1 to 2 weeks are the most uncomfortable, but pain typically decreases steadily. Many patients are surprised at how quickly they feel improvement compared to their pre-surgery hip pain.

Hip replacement surgery typically takes 1 to 2 hours. The total time in the operating room including preparation and anesthesia may be longer. Your surgeon and care team will give you a more precise estimate based on your specific situation.

Most patients use a walker for the first 2 to 3 weeks after hip replacement, then transition to a cane for another few weeks. By 4 to 6 weeks, many patients can walk without any assistive device. Your physical therapist will guide your progression.

Bilateral (same-day) hip replacement is possible for select patients and can reduce overall recovery time. However, it carries higher surgical risks and is not appropriate for everyone. Your orthopedic surgeon will evaluate your health and discuss whether this approach is suitable for you.

The labrum is a ring of cartilage around the hip socket that helps stabilize the joint. Tears can cause groin pain, clicking, catching, or a feeling of instability in the hip. Hip labral tears are often repaired arthroscopically when conservative treatment does not provide adequate relief.

Knee Replacement

Everything about total and partial knee replacement recovery

Will I be able to kneel after knee replacement?

Many patients can kneel after knee replacement, though it may feel uncomfortable or unnatural at first. Kneeling on the implant itself is safe, but discomfort at the incision site varies between patients. Physical therapy and time help most people regain the ability to kneel.

Light jogging may be possible for some patients after full recovery, but high-impact running is generally discouraged as it can accelerate implant wear. Low-impact activities like walking, swimming, cycling, and golf are strongly encouraged and appropriate for most patients.

Most patients use prescription pain medications for the first 2 to 4 weeks after knee replacement, then transition to over-the-counter options like acetaminophen or ibuprofen as tolerated. Each patient’s pain management plan is individualized based on their recovery progress.

In the first 6 weeks, avoid high-impact activities, deep squatting, and twisting motions. You should not drive until cleared by your surgeon. Long-term, patients are encouraged to avoid high-impact sports that could accelerate implant wear. Low-impact activities are generally permitted for life.

Knee replacement surgery typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours. Robotic-assisted procedures with the Mako system take a similar amount of time but offer significantly greater accuracy in implant placement.

Return-to-work timing depends on the physical demands of your job. Sedentary office workers may return in 4 to 6 weeks. Those with physically demanding jobs may need 3 months or more. Your surgeon will provide a personalized timeline.

Key factors for faster recovery include committing fully to physical therapy, performing home exercises consistently, controlling pain proactively to allow movement, elevating and icing the knee regularly, maintaining a healthy diet, and following all post-surgical precautions.

“Bone-on-bone” refers to severe joint space loss visible on X-ray where cartilage has worn away. It is a sign of advanced arthritis. While bone-on-bone knees often benefit from replacement, surgery is recommended based on symptoms and functional impact — not X-rays alone.

Some degree of swelling is normal for 3 to 6 months after knee replacement. Activity level, elevation, and ice application can help manage this. Persistent or increasing swelling should be evaluated to rule out infection or other complications.

Mako Robotic Surgery

How the Mako system works and why it matters for your outcome

Is Mako better than traditional surgery?

Mako robotic-arm assisted surgery offers advantages including a personalized 3D surgical plan before your operation, real-time intraoperative guidance, and more precise implant placement compared to traditional manual techniques. Clinical studies show this can result in less soft tissue damage, reduced pain, and faster recovery.

The cost of Mako surgery is typically covered under standard joint replacement benefits by most insurance plans, including Medicare. Out-of-pocket costs depend on your plan’s specific coverage for joint replacement. Contact our office or your insurer for benefit verification.

The Mako system provides sub-millimeter accuracy in implant positioning. It creates a personalized 3D model of your anatomy before surgery and guides the surgeon’s movements with real-time feedback, helping ensure the implant is placed exactly where planned.

Manual surgery relies on the surgeon’s experience and standard measurement tools. Mako uses CT-based 3D planning and a robotic arm that works with the surgeon to stay within pre-defined boundaries, reducing the risk of human error. Both are performed by the surgeon — Mako assists rather than replaces the human element.

No. The robot does not perform surgery independently. Your surgeon remains in complete control at all times. The Mako robotic arm assists the surgeon by providing real-time positioning feedback and working within pre-defined boundaries to enhance precision.

Yes. The Mako system is FDA-cleared for total hip replacement, total knee replacement, and partial knee replacement. SoCal Orthopedics offers Mako-assisted surgery for all three procedures.

Yes. Mako robotic-assisted surgery has been used for hundreds of thousands of procedures and has a strong safety record. The technology adds a layer of precision to already-established surgical techniques. As with any surgery, there are inherent risks that your surgeon will discuss with you individually.

Sports Medicine

Injuries, ACL, meniscus, and return to sport

What types of sports injuries do you treat?

SoCal Orthopedics treats a full range of sports injuries including ACL and meniscus tears, rotator cuff injuries, tennis elbow, stress fractures, ankle sprains, labral tears, and cartilage damage. We treat athletes of all ages and skill levels.

Full recovery from ACL reconstruction typically takes 9 to 12 months, especially for athletes returning to high-level competition. Physical therapy begins shortly after surgery and is a critical component of recovery. Return to sport is guided by functional milestones, not time alone.

The meniscus is the cartilage cushion in your knee. Tears can result from sudden twisting or wear over time. Treatment depends on tear type and location — some tears heal with physical therapy and injections, while others require arthroscopic surgery to repair or trim the damaged tissue.

Most athletes return to their sport after ACL reconstruction, typically at 9 to 12 months post-surgery. Return-to-sport testing helps confirm the knee is strong and stable enough for competition. Your surgeon and physical therapist will guide this process.

Apply the RICE protocol: Rest (stop activity), Ice (15-20 minutes several times per day), Compression (elastic wrap to reduce swelling), and Elevation (elevate the limb above heart level). Seek evaluation if pain is severe, you cannot bear weight, or symptoms don’t improve in 48 to 72 hours.

FAI is a condition where extra bone grows along the femoral head or acetabulum, causing abnormal contact in the hip joint. This can lead to labral tears and early arthritis. Treatment ranges from physical therapy and injections to arthroscopic surgery to reshape the bone.

Return-to-sport timelines vary greatly by procedure, sport, and individual recovery. Minor arthroscopic procedures may allow sport return in 6 to 12 weeks. Major reconstructions like ACL repair may require 9 to 12 months. Your surgeon and physical therapist will use functional testing to guide your safe return.

Shoulder & Upper Extremity

Rotator cuff, shoulder replacement, hand, and wrist conditions

What is shoulder arthroscopy?

Shoulder arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure where a small camera (arthroscope) is inserted through tiny incisions to visualize and treat shoulder problems. Common conditions treated include rotator cuff tears, labral tears, shoulder impingement, and loose bodies. Recovery is faster than open surgery.

Recovery from rotator cuff repair typically takes 4 to 6 months for full function restoration. Larger tears may take up to a year. A structured physical therapy program beginning shortly after surgery is critical for optimal outcomes.

Reverse total shoulder replacement is a specialized implant that reverses the normal ball-and-socket anatomy of the shoulder. It is designed for patients with large rotator cuff tears combined with arthritis, or those who have previously failed shoulder replacement.

Frozen shoulder is stiffness and pain caused by inflammation and thickening of the joint capsule. It typically progresses through freezing, frozen, and thawing phases over months to years. Treatment includes physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, corticosteroid injections, and in persistent cases, arthroscopic capsular release.

Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve is compressed as it passes through the carpal tunnel in the wrist. Symptoms include hand numbness, tingling, and weakness. Treatment ranges from wrist splinting and injections to carpal tunnel release surgery for persistent or severe cases.

Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) is an overuse injury causing pain on the outside of the elbow. Despite the name, it affects many people who don’t play tennis. Treatment includes rest, physical therapy, bracing, corticosteroid or PRP injections, and occasionally surgery for resistant cases.

Trigger finger (stenosing tenosynovitis) is a condition where the tendon in the finger becomes inflamed, causing the finger to catch or lock when bent. Treatment includes corticosteroid injections, splinting, and in persistent cases, a minor outpatient procedure to release the constricting tendon sheath.

Partial Replacement & Non-Surgical Treatments

Injections, partial knee, and alternatives to surgery

What is partial knee replacement?

Partial knee replacement (unicompartmental knee replacement) replaces only the damaged compartment of the knee rather than the entire joint. It is appropriate when arthritis is limited to one area. Benefits include faster recovery, more natural knee feel, and preservation of healthy bone and tissue.

SoCal Orthopedics offers a full range of non-surgical options including physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, corticosteroid injections, hyaluronic acid (gel) injections, bracing, and activity modification. Surgery is considered only when conservative treatments no longer provide adequate relief.

Cortisone injections deliver a powerful anti-inflammatory corticosteroid directly into the affected joint or soft tissue to reduce inflammation and relieve pain. Effects can last weeks to several months. They are commonly used for arthritis, bursitis, tendinitis, and other joint conditions.

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) injections use a concentration of your own platelets to promote natural healing in tendons, ligaments, muscles, and joints. PRP is commonly used for tendinitis, partial tendon tears, and mild to moderate arthritis. It is drawn from your own blood and processed in our office.

Hyaluronic acid (gel) injections help lubricate and cushion the knee joint, providing pain relief for some patients with mild to moderate osteoarthritis. Results vary — some patients experience significant relief lasting 6 months or more. They are a good option before considering surgery.

Joint preservation surgery aims to restore or maintain the natural joint rather than replacing it. Procedures include cartilage repair or transplantation, osteotomy (bone realignment), and ligament reconstruction. These procedures are most appropriate for younger, active patients with localized joint damage.

Spine, Foot & Ankle

Back, disc conditions, ankle replacement and Achilles care

What is a herniated disc?

A herniated disc occurs when the soft inner gel of a spinal disc pushes through a crack in the outer layer, potentially pressing on nearby nerves and causing pain, numbness, or weakness. Most herniated discs improve with conservative care including physical therapy, medications, and epidural steroid injections.

Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the spinal canal that puts pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots, causing pain, numbness, and weakness — often in the legs. Treatment ranges from physical therapy and injections to surgical decompression when symptoms are severe or progressive.

Scoliosis is an abnormal lateral curvature of the spine, most commonly diagnosed during adolescent growth spurts. Mild cases are monitored, moderate curves may be treated with a brace, and severe curves may require surgery. Adult scoliosis can also cause back pain and nerve symptoms requiring orthopedic evaluation.

Total ankle replacement (arthroplasty) is an alternative to ankle fusion for patients with severe ankle arthritis. It replaces the damaged joint surfaces with metal and plastic components, preserving ankle motion while relieving pain. Recovery typically takes 3 to 6 months.

When the Achilles tendon is completely ruptured, surgical repair reattaches the torn tendon ends. Surgery is often recommended for active individuals to restore strength and reduce re-rupture risk. Recovery involves immobilization followed by progressive physical therapy over 4 to 6 months.

Plantar fasciitis is caused by inflammation of the thick band of tissue (plantar fascia) running along the bottom of the foot. It is commonly triggered by overuse, flat feet, tight calf muscles, or prolonged standing. It causes heel pain that is typically worst with the first steps in the morning.

Ankle fusion (arthrodesis) permanently joins the bones of the ankle joint, eliminating painful motion at the arthritic joint. It is recommended for severe arthritis when replacement is not the best option. Patients typically experience good pain relief, though range of motion in the ankle is eliminated.

Surgery & Recovery

Pre-op preparation, surgery day, and what to expect after

How do I prepare for orthopedic surgery?

Preparation includes stopping blood thinners or anti-inflammatory medications as directed, arranging a driver and home support, completing pre-surgical lab work and clearances, and setting up your recovery space at home. Your surgical team will provide detailed instructions specific to your procedure.

Anesthesia options depend on the procedure and your health history. Joint replacement is often performed under spinal (regional) anesthesia combined with sedation, which can offer faster recovery and reduced opioid use. General anesthesia is also available. Your anesthesiologist will discuss options with you before surgery.

Joint replacement carries risks including infection, blood clots (DVT/PE), nerve or vessel injury, implant loosening, dislocation, and anesthesia-related complications. Your surgeon will discuss your individual risk factors and the measures taken to minimize complications.

Blood clot prevention includes early walking after surgery, compression stockings or devices, and blood-thinning medications (anticoagulants) prescribed by your surgeon. Report any signs of DVT — leg swelling, redness, or warmth — or shortness of breath immediately.

Signs of potential infection include increasing redness, warmth, swelling, or drainage at the incision site, fever over 101 degrees F, chills, or increased pain. Contact your surgeon immediately if you notice any of these warning signs, as early treatment is critical.

Most patients can shower 48 to 72 hours after surgery if the incision is covered and kept dry. Bathtub soaking should be avoided until the wound is fully closed, typically 2 to 3 weeks. Your surgeon will provide specific wound care instructions.

“Prehabilitation” — physical therapy before surgery — can improve surgical outcomes by strengthening the muscles around the joint beforehand. SoCal Orthopedics may recommend pre-surgical physical therapy for joint replacement and major reconstructive procedures. Ask your surgeon if prehab is right for you.

Outpatient joint replacement allows appropriate patients to have hip or knee replacement surgery and return home the same day. Careful patient selection and advanced surgical techniques, including Mako robotic assistance, make this approach safe and increasingly common.

Short car trips are usually permitted within a few weeks of surgery. Long-distance travel by plane is generally discouraged for 4 to 6 weeks due to DVT risk. Notify airport security that you have a joint implant — you may trigger metal detectors and will be given documentation for travel.

Yes. Smoking significantly impairs healing, increases infection risk, and elevates anesthesia risks. Surgeons typically recommend stopping smoking at least 4 to 6 weeks before elective surgery and throughout the recovery period. Nicotine in any form also impairs bone healing.

Multimodal pain management uses a combination of different analgesic approaches to control pain more effectively while reducing reliance on opioids. This may include nerve blocks, anti-inflammatories, acetaminophen, ice, and physical therapy. SoCal Orthopedics uses evidence-based multimodal protocols for surgical procedures.

The duration varies by medication. Aspirin is often stopped 7 days before surgery, warfarin 5 days, and newer anticoagulants (such as Eliquis or Xarelto) typically 2 to 3 days. Never stop blood thinners without guidance from your prescribing doctor and orthopedic surgeon.

Ask: What are my non-surgical options? What does my surgery involve? What are the risks for me specifically? What implant will you use and why? How many of these procedures have you performed? What will recovery look like? When can I return to work and activities I enjoy?

Post-operative rehabilitation is structured physical therapy designed to restore strength, range of motion, and function after surgery. It begins shortly after the procedure — sometimes the same day — and continues for weeks to months depending on the surgery. Commitment to rehab is one of the most important factors in a successful outcome.

Insurance & Costs

Coverage, Medicare, and financial questions

Does SoCal Orthopedics accept my insurance?

SoCal Orthopedics accepts most major insurance plans including Medicare, PPO, and HMO plans. Contact our office directly or visit our website to verify your specific plan before your appointment.

The cost of surgery depends on your insurance coverage, the specific procedure, and the surgical facility used. Our team will work with your insurance to determine your estimated costs including copays, deductibles, and out-of-pocket maximums before surgery. Contact our billing team for a personalized estimate.

Yes, Medicare covers joint replacement surgery when it is medically necessary. Coverage includes the surgeon’s fee, facility fee, anesthesia, and related care. Your specific out-of-pocket responsibility depends on your Medicare plan and supplemental coverage.

The cost of Mako surgery is typically covered under standard joint replacement benefits by most insurance plans, including Medicare. Out-of-pocket costs depend on your plan’s specific coverage. Contact our office or your insurer for benefit verification.

Conditions & Diagnosis

Arthritis, fractures, common orthopedic diagnoses explained

What is osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, caused by the gradual breakdown of joint cartilage over time. It causes joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and decreased range of motion. Weight-bearing joints — knees, hips, and spine — are most commonly affected. Treatment ranges from conservative management to joint replacement in advanced cases.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks the joint lining, causing inflammation and eventual joint destruction. Unlike osteoarthritis (wear-and-tear), RA is systemic and often affects multiple joints symmetrically. RA is managed medically by a rheumatologist, while orthopedic surgeons treat the resulting joint damage.

Osteoporosis is a condition where bones become weak and more susceptible to fractures. It can affect fracture healing, implant fixation in joint replacement, and overall surgical outcomes. Your surgeon may recommend a bone density evaluation (DEXA scan) and treatment with calcium, vitamin D, or prescription medications before elective surgery.

Knee arthritis is diagnosed through a combination of your symptom history, physical examination findings, and weight-bearing X-rays. In some cases, an MRI is used to evaluate cartilage and soft tissue more closely. Blood tests may be ordered to rule out inflammatory arthritis.

Common imaging studies include X-rays (for fractures and arthritis), MRI (for soft tissue — ligaments, tendons, cartilage, and meniscus), CT scan (for complex fractures and 3D bony anatomy), and ultrasound (for dynamic assessment of tendons and guiding injections).

X-rays show bones and joint space well but provide limited soft tissue detail. MRI provides detailed imaging of soft tissue structures including cartilage, ligaments, tendons, menisci, muscles, and bone marrow. It is essential for diagnosing ACL tears, rotator cuff tears, labral tears, and early bone stress injuries.

Bursitis is inflammation of the bursa, small fluid-filled sacs that cushion bones, tendons, and muscles near joints. Common sites include the shoulder, hip, knee, and elbow. Treatment includes rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, and corticosteroid injections.

A sprain is an injury to a ligament (the tissue connecting bones), while a strain is an injury to a muscle or tendon. Both are graded by severity. Treatment for mild to moderate sprains and strains includes rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) followed by physical therapy.

Signs that suggest fracture include significant swelling or deformity, severe point tenderness directly over the bone, inability to bear weight or use the limb normally, or a “snap” felt or heard at the time of injury. An X-ray is the definitive way to confirm or rule out a fracture.

Chondromalacia patella is softening and breakdown of the cartilage on the underside of the kneecap. It causes anterior knee pain, especially with stairs, squatting, and prolonged sitting. Treatment focuses on physical therapy to strengthen hip and quadriceps muscles, activity modification, and anti-inflammatory care.

Osgood-Schlatter disease is a painful condition affecting the tibial tuberosity in adolescents during growth spurts. It is caused by repetitive stress from sports involving running and jumping. Treatment is conservative and the condition typically resolves as the child’s growth plates close.

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in joints, most commonly the big toe, ankle, or knee. It causes sudden, severe pain and swelling. Acute attacks are treated with anti-inflammatories, and long-term management involves medication and dietary changes.

Elevated BMI can increase surgical risks and affect implant longevity and recovery. However, joint pain often makes weight loss very difficult. Your surgeon will discuss how your weight relates to your specific situation and whether any weight loss goals are recommended before surgery.

Appointments & Patient Care

Scheduling, telehealth, second opinions, and your care team

How do I schedule an appointment at SoCal Orthopedics?

You can schedule an appointment by calling our office directly or using the online booking option on our website at socalorthopedics.com. Our team will help match you with the right specialist for your condition and work with your schedule to find a convenient time.

Bring your photo ID, insurance card, list of current medications (including supplements), any prior imaging or medical records related to your condition, and a list of questions you want to ask. If you have had prior treatment elsewhere, bring those records if possible.

SoCal Orthopedics offers telehealth consultations for appropriate visits including follow-ups, second opinions, and initial evaluations when imaging is already available. Contact our office to schedule a telemedicine appointment or to determine if your concern can be evaluated virtually.

We welcome patients seeking second opinions. Bring any prior imaging (X-rays, MRIs, CT scans) and medical records to your appointment. Our specialists will review everything and provide an honest, thorough assessment of your condition and treatment options.

Yes. You are welcome to request a specific surgeon when scheduling your appointment. Our team will do their best to accommodate your preference based on the surgeon’s schedule and the nature of your condition. If your condition requires a specialist, our staff can also recommend the most appropriate provider.

SoCal Orthopedics & Sports Medicine serves Southern California with multiple convenient locations. Visit socalorthopedics.com for the most current list of office locations, addresses, and hours.

Physician Assistants (PAs) and Nurse Practitioners (NPs) are highly trained advanced practice providers who work closely with orthopedic surgeons. They conduct evaluations, review imaging, assist in surgery, provide post-operative care, and manage follow-up visits. Your care team works collaboratively to ensure continuity and quality of care.

SoCal Orthopedics & Sports Medicine is dedicated to delivering expert, patient-centered orthopedic care using the latest surgical technologies — including Mako robotic-assisted surgery — and evidence-based treatment approaches. Our team of fellowship-trained specialists works with each patient to develop a personalized plan that fits their goals, lifestyle, and overall health.

Ready to Schedule?

Call us or visit socalorthopedics.com to book a consultation with a fellowship-trained specialist.

Schedule a Consultation →