Knee Conditions & Treatment

 

Knee pain from an injury, degenerative condition, or years of wear and tear can affect every aspect of daily life — from walking and climbing stairs to staying active and doing the things you love. Dr. Michael Sileo is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist dedicated to diagnosing, treating, and rehabilitating patients with a full range of knee conditions.

Whether you are dealing with a recent injury, a chronic condition, or require a specialized procedure, the goal is always the same — accurate diagnosis, personalized treatment, and a return to the life you want to live.

Knee Conditions We Treat

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Comprehensive care for a wide spectrum of knee-related issues, from acute sports injuries to chronic degenerative conditions.

Knee Pain (3)

Osteoarthritis

Develops when protective cartilage breaks down over time, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Both non-surgical interventions and surgical options are available.
Knee Pain (3)

ACL Tears

Among the most common knee injuries, especially in athletes. Dr. Sileo specializes in ACL reconstruction utilizing minimally invasive techniques to restore stability.
Knee Pain (3)

Meniscal Tears

The meniscus acts as a shock absorber. Advanced arthroscopic procedures are used for meniscal repair and preservation through minimally invasive techniques.
Knee Pain (3)

Cartilage Injuries

Damage can cause significant pain. Dr. Sileo excels in cartilage grafting and transplantation techniques to repair damaged cartilage and promote regeneration.
Knee Pain (3)

Additional Conditions

Treatment extends to a broad range including collateral ligament injuries, patellar tendonitis, knee bursitis, and post-traumatic joint degeneration.
A person in medical scrubs points at a model of a human knee joint with a pen, demonstrating its anatomy

Advance Knee
Procedures

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  • ArthroscopyMinimally invasive arthroscopic techniques are used to visualize and treat various knee conditions. Enables accurate diagnosis and repair of cartilage injuries, removal of loose bodies, and treatment of inflammation — all through small incisions.
  • ACL ReconstructionSpecialized surgery employing the latest minimally invasive techniques to reconstruct the torn ligament and restore knee stability. Promotes faster recovery and helps regain active lifestyles.
  • Cartilage GraftingProcedures including autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI) and osteochondral autograft transplantation (OATS) repair damaged cartilage. These advanced techniques promote cartilage regeneration.
  • Meniscal RepairAdvanced arthroscopic procedures restore torn menisci and preserve knee function. This technique promotes faster healing, reduces recovery time, and protects long-term joint health.

Our Treatment Approach

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Comprehensive Evaluation

A thorough physical examination, complete medical history review, and advanced imaging (X-ray/MRI) to accurately diagnose and identify the most effective path.

Conservative Treatment

We always considered conservative, non-invasive treatments like physical therapy before surgery. Many conditions respond well to conservative care alone.

Surgical
Planning

When surgery is the right path, minimally invasive techniques and the latest advancements are used to ensure the procedure is tailored to your anatomy.

Comprehensive Rehabilitation

A personalized post-operative program maximizes strength and mobility. Rehabilitation is a core strategy to support long-term joint health.

Recovery Timeline

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Recovery varies depending on the procedure. Below is a general guide for common treatments.

Meniscal Repair
Weeks 1-2Rest, ice, and elevation to manage swelling. Weight bearing may be restricted depending on the extent of the repair.
Weeks 2-6Physical therapy focuses on range of motion and gentle strengthening. Most patients progress to full weight bearing.
Weeks 6-12Return to light activity and daily function for most patients.
3-6 MonthsFull recovery and return to sport or high-demand activity, depending on the nature of the repair.
Cartilage Grafting
Weeks 1-6Weight bearing is restricted to protect the graft. Gentle range of motion exercises begin under guidance.
Weeks 6-12Weight bearing gradually increases. Physical therapy focuses on strengthening and restoring mobility.
3-6 MonthsMost patients return to light daily activities and low-impact exercise during this phase.
6-12 MonthsFull recovery and return to sport for most patients, depending on graft size and location.
ACL Reconstruction
Weeks 1-2Focus is on reducing swelling, managing pain, and beginning gentle range of motion exercises. Crutches are typically used.
Weeks 2-6Physical therapy begins in earnest, focused on restoring range of motion and rebuilding quadriceps strength. Most bear weight with assistance.
2-4 MonthsStrength and stability training intensifies. Many patients return to light activity and low-impact exercise.
4-6 MonthsSport-specific training begins for athletic patients. Clearance depends on strength testing.
6-12 MonthsFull return to sport and high-demand activity for most patients, with continued monitoring.

Frequently Asked Questions

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How do I know if my knee injury needs surgery?

Not all knee injuries require surgery. Many conditions, including mild ACL sprains, partial meniscal tears, and early osteoarthritis, respond well to physical therapy, injections, and activity modification. Surgery is typically considered when conservative treatments have failed to provide adequate relief, when imaging confirms significant structural damage, or when the injury severely limits daily function and quality of life. A comprehensive orthopedic evaluation is the best way to determine the right course of treatment.

What is cartilage grafting and who needs it?

Cartilage grafting is a procedure used to repair areas of damaged or missing cartilage in the knee joint. Techniques such as ACI and OATS transplant healthy cartilage cells or tissue to the damaged area, promoting regeneration and restoring joint function. It is typically recommended for younger, active patients with isolated cartilage defects who are not yet candidates for joint replacement. A thorough evaluation including MRI is needed.

What is the difference between meniscal repair and meniscal removal?

Meniscal repair involves stitching the torn meniscus back together to preserve as much of the natural tissue as possible, while meniscal removal — or meniscectomy — involves trimming or removing the damaged portion of the meniscus. Repair is preferred whenever possible because preserving the meniscus protects the knee from long-term degeneration. However, not all tears are repairable.

How long does ACL reconstruction recovery take?

Most patients return to daily activities within a few weeks of ACL reconstruction, but full return to sport typically takes 6–12 months. The timeline depends on the surgical technique used, the patient’s overall health and fitness, and how consistently they engage with their rehabilitation program. Returning to activity too early is one of the most common causes of re-injury.

How do I know if my knee injury needs surgery?

Not all knee injuries require surgery. Many conditions, including mild ACL sprains, partial meniscal tears, and early osteoarthritis, respond well to physical therapy, injections, and activity modification. Surgery is typically considered when conservative treatments have failed to provide adequate relief, when imaging confirms significant structural damage, or when the injury severely limits daily function and quality of life. A comprehensive orthopedic evaluation is the best way to determine the right course of treatment.

Where to Get Knee Treatment on Long Island

Dr. Sileo sees patients at two convenient Long Island locations. New patients are welcome.

Commack Office

312A Commack Rd
Commack, NY 11725

East Setauket Office

6 Technology Drive, Suite 100
East Setauket, NY 11733

Request An Appointment

Take the first step towards recovery.

(631) 689-4189(631) 689-4189
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  • Office hours: Mon-Fri, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM