The Knee Clinic Blogs

Introduction Undergoing knee surgery can feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to. By preparing the right questions in advance, you can feel confident, informed, and in control of your care. As a trusted  knee surgeon  serving patients in Manchester, I recommend asking these seven important questions before any procedure. These questions not only help you understand the process but also build trust with your specialist. 1. What Exactly Is the Diagnosis and Why Is Surgery Needed? Understanding Your Condition Whether it’s an ACL tear, osteoarthritis, or meniscal damage, your  knee surgeon  should clearly explain why surgery is the best option and what non-surgical treatments have been considered or tried. Tip:  Bring copies of previous scans or reports to your consultation. 2. What Type of Surgery Will You Perform? Knowing the Procedure Not all knee surgeries are the same. Ask if the procedure is minimally invasive (like arthroscopy), reconstructive (like ACL repa...

For many people suffering from chronic knee pain, the thought of undergoing knee replacement surgery can be overwhelming. While surgery is often highly effective, it's not always the first or only option. The good news? With the right early intervention, it's possible to delay or even avoid a  knee replacement  altogether. Why Do People Need Knee Replacement? The most common reason for knee surgery is osteoarthritis , a degenerative joint disease that causes cartilage breakdown in the knee. As the protective cartilage wears down, pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility increase. In severe cases, the joint damage becomes so advanced that surgery on a knee is the only option. However, many patients wait too long to address the early signs—missing the opportunity to try treatments that could slow progression. Early Warning Signs You Shouldn't Ignore If you’re experiencing any of the following, it's time to speak with a knee surgeon : Persistent knee pain during or after...

Knee ligament injuries can affect mobility and daily activities, making early diagnosis and treatment crucial. While ACL injuries are widely known, damage to other ligaments—such as the MCL, PCL, and LCL—can also cause pain and instability. Seeking specialized care from an experienced knee surgeon ensures the right treatment approach. Bilal Barkatali is a recognized expert in knee ligament injuries, offering advanced solutions for patients dealing with knee instability and discomfort. Understanding Knee Ligaments and Common Injuries Knee ligaments provide stability and control joint movement. Injury to any of these structures can lead to pain, swelling, and reduced function. The four primary ligaments in the knee include: Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL): Supports the inner knee and prevents excessive inward movement. Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL): Stabilizes the outer knee and resists outward forces. Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL): Controls backward motion of the tibia. Ante...