Timothy L. Walker, MD

Knee Treatment at Orthopedic Institute

Knee Arthritis

Knee arthritis occurs when the cartilage in the knee wears down, causing pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. Arthritis can develop due to aging, overuse, or as a result of an autoimmune condition. This condition often worsens over time, especially if left untreated, impacting daily activities and overall quality of life.

Symptoms of Knee Arthritis

• Pain, stiffness, and swelling in the knee, especially after rest or heavy use
• A “clicking” or “popping” sound during movement
• Joint locking or “sticking” sensation when bending the knee
• Weakness in the knee, making it difficult to stand or walk for extended periods

At Orthopedic Institute, we offer treatments for knee arthritis, including physical therapy, medications, injections, and, in severe cases, surgical options to restore knee function.

Knee Ligament Injuries

Knee ligament injuries are common among athletes but can happen to anyone. The knee has four main ligaments – ACL, PCL, MCL, and LCL – that support stability. A sudden impact, twist, or awkward movement can stretch or tear these ligaments, causing pain and instability.

Symptoms of Knee Ligament Injuries

• Pain, swelling, and instability around the knee joint
• Reduced range of motion and difficulty fully straightening the leg
• Sensation of the knee “giving out” during movement
• Popping sound or feeling at the time of injury, often indicating a torn ligament

Our specialists offer treatments that range from conservative options like bracing and physical therapy to advanced surgeries, including ligament reconstruction.

Meniscus Tears

The meniscus is a piece of cartilage in the knee that absorbs shock and stabilizes the joint. Meniscus tears often occur during activities involving quick pivots, twists, or heavy impact. This injury can cause lingering pain and stiffness, making even simple movements uncomfortable.

Symptoms of a Meniscus Tear

• Knee pain, swelling, and stiffness, especially after activity
• Popping sensation at the time of injury
• Limited knee movement and difficulty fully bending the knee
• Ongoing pain and swelling for days or weeks after the injury

Treatment for meniscus tears may involve rest, physical therapy, or, in some cases, surgical repair. Our team at Orthopedic Institute will work with you to choose the best option for a full recovery.

Feeling anxious about an injection?

Getting the care you need should not be stressful. Orthopedic Institute now offers nitrous oxide to help you relax during your procedure. Ask your provider today if nitrous oxide could be right for you.

Orthopedic Institute: Expert Hip Care

At Orthopedic Institute, our team of expert physicians is dedicated to providing top-quality care for a range of hip conditions, helping patients regain mobility and live pain-free. Our specialists use advanced techniques and personalized treatment plans to meet each patient’s unique needs. From conservative treatments to advanced surgical procedures, our team works to improve every patient's quality of life and alleviate hip pain effectively.

Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI)

Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) is a condition where extra bone growth around the hip joint prevents smooth movement. In FAI, the ball (head) of the femur does not move freely within the hip socket, causing pain and limited range of motion. This condition can occur in two forms: cam impingement, where extra bone forms around the femoral head, or pincer impingement, where the hip socket has an irregular shape. Some individuals experience both types, known as mixed impingement.

Symptoms

• Persistent or sharp pain in the hip, especially in the groin area.
• Discomfort after sitting for long periods or after activities like walking.
• Sensations can range from a dull ache to a sharp, popping feeling when moving the hip.

Hip Arthritis

Hip arthritis refers to the deterioration of cartilage around the hip joint, leading to pain, stiffness, and decreased mobility. There are several types of arthritis that can affect the hip, with osteoarthritis being the most common. Arthritis wears down the cartilage covering the joint, which is necessary for smooth, pain-free movement. Without enough cartilage, bones rub together, causing inflammation and pain that can worsen over time.

Symptoms:

• A general ache or pain around the hip, including areas like the groin, thigh, or buttocks.
• Stiffness in the hip that is most noticeable after sitting, resting, or lying down but improves with activity.
• Pain that causes limping or difficulty walking comfortably.

Hip Fractures

A hip fracture is a break in the upper part of the femur, commonly seen in older adults due to osteoporosis, falls, or other injuries. There are three primary types of hip fractures:

• Intracapsular fractures: Breaks that occur within the hip joint capsule.
• Intertrochanteric fractures: Breaks that occur between the greater and lesser trochanter of the femur.
• Subtrochanteric fractures: Breaks that occur just below the lesser trochanter.

Hip fractures require immediate attention and often surgical intervention, as the break can severely impact mobility and quality of life.

Symptoms:

• Significant pain in the upper leg or hip area.
• Pain may radiate across the leg, including the inner or outer thigh.
• Increased pain with any attempt to rotate or move the hip joint.

Labral Tears

The hip joint is built for strength and stability. A labral tear happens when the cartilage that surrounds the hip socket, called the labrum, becomes damaged. The labrum cushions the joint and helps keep the ball of the hip bone in place. When it tears, pain, stiffness, and limited motion often follow.

Symptoms

• Pain in the hip or groin area during activity or long sitting</
• Clicking, locking, or catching sensations inside the hip
  
• Stiffness or loss of flexibility
• Pain that increases with twisting, pivoting, or sudden changes in direction

Choosing the Right Treatment

At Orthopedic Institute, we understand that each patient’s needs are unique, so our physicians collaborate with patients to determine the best treatment approach. From advanced surgical options to personalized non-surgical care, we aim to provide the highest quality care for every hip condition.
Our skilled team ensures that each patient is informed about their options and involved in every step of the care process. With our state-of-the-art facilities and specialized expertise, we are here to help patients manage hip pain and regain their active lifestyles.

Orthopedic Institute Sports Medicine: Caring for Every Athlete

At Orthopedic Institute, our sports medicine team is dedicated to helping athletes of all levels prevent injuries, recover with confidence, and perform at their best. Whether you are a professional, a student-athlete, or simply enjoy staying active, our specialized doctors, trainers, and therapists deliver personalized care to help you achieve your goals.

Our Approach

Injuries can be frustrating and disruptive, but our experts are here to guide you toward a full and confident recovery. Our team of orthopedic physicians, athletic trainers, and physical therapists work together to create a recovery plan tailored to your needs, ensuring a safe, effective return to your favorite activities. With advanced clinical and surgical techniques, we are committed to providing you with top-quality care.

Trusted by the Pros

Orthopedic Institute is proud to be the official sports medicine provider for the Sioux Falls Stampede, Dakota Wesleyan athletes, Southwest Minnesota State University athletes, as well as high school athletes across the region. When you come to us, you will be treated by the same trusted team that works with professional and competitive athletes to help them stay in the game.

OI Performance: Your Athletic Training Resource

OI Performance includes an indoor turf field, certified coaches, and sports physical therapists. This space offers everything from agility and strength training to injury prevention and fitness classes. Whether you are rehabbing an injury or aiming to boost your athletic performance, OI Performance provides the support and expertise to help you reach new goals.

Common Sports Injuries We Treat

Our specialists treat a wide range of sports injuries. Each link below offers more in-depth information on symptoms, treatments, and recovery options.

Shoulder

At Orthopedic Institute, we specialize in comprehensive shoulder care, addressing conditions such as separations, dislocations, rotator cuff tears, and SLAP (shoulder labral) tears. Our team focuses exclusively on diagnosing and treating shoulder injuries to restore strength, stability, and mobility. Whether you’re dealing with a sports injury or chronic shoulder pain, we offer advanced non-surgical options and minimally invasive procedures tailored to your needs. Our goal is to help you recover quickly and return to the activities that matter most.

Elbow

At Orthopedic Institute, our experts specialize in diagnosing and treating elbow conditions, including Little League elbow, osteochondritis dissecans, and ligament injuries requiring Tommy John surgery. We understand the unique demands placed on the elbow, especially for athletes and individuals performing repetitive arm motions. Our team uses advanced diagnostic tools and treatment techniques to provide personalized care, from non-surgical options to specialized surgical procedures. With a focus on restoring strength, flexibility, and function, we are here to help you return to the activities you love with confidence.

Wrist & Hand

At Orthopedic Institute, we offer expert care for a wide range of hand and wrist conditions, including Cubital Tunnel Syndrome, Distal Biceps Rupture, and Lateral Epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow). Our team understands the critical role your hand and wrist play in everyday tasks and athletic activities, providing accurate diagnoses and customized treatment plans. Whether through advanced non-surgical treatments or specialized surgical procedures, we focus on reducing pain, enhancing mobility, and strengthening functionality. Our mission is to restore full hand and wrist performance, empowering you to return to your daily life and activities without restrictions.

Hip

At Orthopedic Institute, our specialists are dedicated to diagnosing and treating hip conditions, including labral tears, femoroacetabular impingement and hip arthritis. We understand the critical role the hip plays in mobility and overall quality of life, and our team tailors treatment plans to each patient’s specific needs. Using advanced diagnostic tools and techniques, we offer a range of options, from conservative therapies to state-of-the-art surgical procedures. Our focus is on reducing pain, improving mobility, and helping patients achieve long-term comfort and function.

Leg & Knee

At Orthopedic Institute, our expert team specializes in diagnosing and treating knee and leg conditions, including ACL and other ligament injuries, meniscus tears, hamstring injuries, knee arthritis, and Achilles tendon ruptures. We understand the importance of knee and leg health in maintaining an active lifestyle and tailor every treatment plan to meet your unique needs. Using advanced techniques and the latest therapies, we address both chronic and acute conditions to help alleviate pain and improve function. Our goal is to support your recovery journey with expert care, allowing you to move with confidence and ease.

Ankle

At Orthopedic Institute, we provide expert care for a range of foot and ankle issues, including injuries, arthritis, plantar fasciitis, and fractures. Our specialized team combines years of experience with advanced techniques to create personalized treatment plans tailored to your needs. We focus on addressing pain, instability, and mobility challenges to ensure effective, long-lasting results. From conservative therapies to surgical solutions, we are committed to helping you move with ease and confidence.

Our team’s expertise and state-of-the-art treatments ensure that you are in good hands for each of these injuries, from evaluation to recovery.