Do I need an MRI for my knee pain?

Not always. Many knee problems can be diagnosed with a good history, physical exam, and X-ray. MRI is ordered when the diagnosis is unclear or when it will change management (for example, before considering surgery).

Is knee surgery my only option for arthritis?

No. Many patients with knee arthritis do well for years with non-surgical management — PT, injections, activity modification, weight management, and bracing. Surgery is considered when non-operative care no longer controls pain or function.

How long is recovery after knee replacement?

Most patients are walking with an assistive device the same day, off the walker within 2–4 weeks, and back to most activities of daily living by 6–12 weeks. Full recovery continues over the first year.

Can I get PRP for my knee arthritis?

PRP can be a reasonable option for mild-to-moderate knee osteoarthritis in the right patient. See the PRP & Regenerative Injections page.

Body Part

Knee Pain, Injury & Surgery — San Diego

Name: North County Orthopedic Medical Group
Address: 8929 University Center Ln, Ste 100, San Diego, CA, 92122, US
Telephone: (858) 457-4040
Price range: $$

Comprehensive knee care in San Diego — from sports injuries and meniscus tears to arthritis and joint replacement.

Request Appointment (858) 457-4040

Overview

A closer look

The knee is the largest joint in the body and one of the most frequently injured. Whether your knee pain came from a sports injury, a fall, a work incident, or years of wear and tear, an accurate diagnosis is the difference between treatment that works and treatment that wastes time. Dr. Sidney H. Levine has treated San Diego knee injuries for more than three decades — from young athletes with ACL and meniscus tears to older adults with advanced arthritis. Every knee patient is personally examined by Dr. Levine, with same-visit X-ray on site when needed, so you leave the first visit with a real diagnosis and a real plan.

Conditions we treat

What we see most often

Meniscus tears

ACL, MCL, PCL, and LCL ligament injuries

Patellar (kneecap) instability and dislocation

Patellofemoral pain syndrome (runner's knee)

Osteoarthritis of the knee

Baker's cyst

Iliotibial band syndrome

Cartilage injuries and osteochondral lesions

Post-traumatic arthritis

Treatment options

Surgical and non-surgical care

Non-surgical options

Corticosteroid injections
Viscosupplementation (hyaluronic acid)
PRP injections in select cases
Bracing (unloader, patellar, ACL braces)
Structured physical therapy
Activity modification and weight management guidance

Surgical options

Knee arthroscopy
Meniscus repair and partial meniscectomy
ACL reconstruction
Cartilage restoration procedures
Partial (unicompartmental) knee replacement
Total knee replacement

What to expect

Your first visit

Your first knee visit includes a detailed history — how it started, what makes it worse, and how it affects your daily life — followed by a hands-on examination and on-site X-rays if indicated. MRI is ordered when it will change management. You'll leave with a working diagnosis, a treatment plan, and a clear next step — whether that's a home program, PT, an injection, further imaging, or scheduling surgery.

Recovery

What healing looks like

Recovery depends on the treatment. Simple arthroscopy typically returns patients to desk work within a week and to sport within 6–12 weeks. Meniscus repair and ACL reconstruction require months of structured rehabilitation. Knee replacement recovery is measured in months, with substantial functional gains at 6 weeks and continued improvement through the first year.

Insurance & coverage

Getting you seen

We accept most PPO plans, Medicare, workers' compensation, and personal injury liens. Call the office to verify your specific plan and any authorization requirements.

Patient info & forms

FAQ