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Knee Specialist in Singapore
Dr Kau is a Fellowship trained Orthopaedic Surgeon with more than 15 years of experience and a subspecialty interest in knee surgery. He is experienced in trauma and fracture management, sports injuries, and joint replacement surgery. For patients suffering from knee conditions, Dr Kau offers partial and total knee replacement surgery and is skilled in robotic assisted surgery. He also treats patients using non-invasive procedures like knee injections. Make an appointment with Dr Kau for a consultation and a personalised knee treatment plan.
Dr Kau Chung Yuan (许医生)
MBBS (S’PORE)
MRCS (Ireland)
MMed (Ortho)
FRCSEd (Ortho)
What is a Knee Specialist?
A knee specialist, also known as an orthopaedic surgeon, is trained in diagnosing, treating, and managing knee conditions. This includes many issues, from ligament tears and fractures to arthritis and tendinitis. Knee specialists can assess knee pain, identify its cause, and devise a tailored treatment plan to alleviate pain and restore the function of the knee.
In addition to treating common knee problems, knee specialists are skilled in advanced surgical procedures such as arthroscopy and knee replacements.
The Knee
The knee joint is a crucial hinge joint that connects the thigh bone to the shin bone. It is essential for supporting our body weight and enabling important movements like walking and running. Taking care of our knees is vital to ensure they function well and prevent injuries.
For specialised knee care, Dr Kau offers a range of services to help diagnose, treat, and restore optimal function to your knee joint.
The Role of a Knee Specialist in Managing Knee Pain
Diagnosis
The initial step in managing knee pain is an accurate diagnosis.
A knee specialist employs a comprehensive approach that includes a detailed patient history, physical examination, and the use of diagnostic imaging techniques such as X-rays, MRI scans, and ultrasounds.
Treatment
Once a diagnosis is established, the knee specialist develops a tailored treatment plan aimed at alleviating pain, restoring function, and preventing further injury. Treatment strategies may include non-surgical or surgical interventions.
Prevention and Long-term Management
In addition to treating the immediate symptoms, knee specialists also focus on preventing future issues through patient education and guidance on proper knee care.
Treatment Options
Non-Surgical Treatments
- Physical Therapy: Customised exercise programs are designed to strengthen the muscles around the knee, improve flexibility, and increase range of motion.
- Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are used to reduce pain and inflammation.
- Injections: Corticosteroid injections can help to provide temporary relief from pain and inflammation. Hyaluronic acid injections can lubricate the knee joint and improve movement.
- Orthotic Devices: Knee braces or shoe inserts can help align the knee, distribute weight more evenly, and relieve pain.
Surgical Treatments
- Arthroscopic Surgery: Arthroscopic surgery is a minimally invasive procedure used to diagnose and treat a wide range of knee problems. It involves making small incisions and using a camera to guide miniature surgical instruments.
- Partial Knee Replacement: This procedure involves replacing only the damaged part of the knee with metal and plastic components.
- Total Knee Replacement: A total knee replacement involves removing damaged bone and cartilage from the knee joint and replacing it with an artificial joint.
- Knee Osteotomy: This surgical procedure involves cutting and reshaping the bones of the knee to relieve pressure on the damaged part of the knee joint, and it can reduce pain and improve function.
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Knee Treatments We Offer
When To See a Knee Specialist
Here are key indicators of when to see a knee specialist:
- Persistent Pain and Discomfort
If you experience knee pain, swelling, or discomfort that persists for more than a few days, it is advisable to consult an orthopaedic doctor. - Limited Range of Motion
If you notice a significant decrease in your knee’s range of motion, such as difficulty bending or straightening your leg, it may indicate an underlying issue. - Sports-related Injuries
If you sustain a knee injury while participating in sports, exercise, or other physical activities, it is important to seek the expertise of an orthopaedic doctor. - Swelling and Redness
Swelling that occurs immediately after a knee injury or swelling that worsens over time can be a sign of underlying issues that require medical attention. Redness and warmth around the knee are also signs that need to be assessed by a specialist. - Signs of Infection
Symptoms such as fever, swelling, warmth, and redness in the knee could indicate an infection within the joint. This condition requires immediate medical attention.
Post-Procedure Knee Recovery
Effective recovery care is essential for successful healing after any knee surgery, encompassing medical guidance, adherence to regimens, and lifestyle adjustments. Understand the nuances of the recovery process and discover valuable home care tips following these procedures.
Dr. Kau Chung Yuan
MBBS (S’pore)
MRCS (Ireland)
MMed (Ortho)
FRCSEd (Ortho)
Dr Kau (许医生) is a Fellowship trained Orthopaedic Surgeon with a subspecialty interest in Hip and Knee surgery and has been in practice for more than 15 years.
He is experienced in trauma and fracture management, sports injuries, and joint replacement surgery.
- Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons Edinburgh, Orthopaedics (FRCS, Edin) 2014
- Master of Medicine (Orthopaedics), Singapore (MMed) 2013
- Member of the Royal College of Surgeons Ireland (MRCS, Ire) 2009
- Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery (MBBS, Singapore) 2004
Patient Journey with Dr Kau
Consultation
During the initial consultation, Dr Kau will evaluate your medical history, assess your condition and advise you on the next course of action.
Investigation
After consultation, Dr Kau will decide which tests are needed. Most conditions will benefit from an X-ray of the affected region to aid in your diagnosis.
Treatment
After diagnosis, Dr Kau will recommend a personalised non-invasive or surgical treatment plan, depending on your condition.
Partnered Programs & Insurance Plans
For Singaporeans, Singapore Permanent Residents and Foreigners.
Please speak to our friendly clinic staff about using your insurance plans.
Patient Feedback
Send Us An Enquiry
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Visit Us Today
1
Mount Elizabeth Novena
Specialist Centre
Specialist Centre
2
Mount Alvernia
Hospital
Hospital
3
Farrer Park
Hospital
Hospital
1, #02-01 Farrer Park Station Rd,
Connexion, Singapore 217562
Connexion, Singapore 217562
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the best treatment for knee pain?
The best treatment for knee pain depends on its cause and severity. Knee pain as a result of injury during sport should not be ignored. For acute knee injuries, the knee is often swollen and warm. Bending is difficult and painful. To treat acute injuries, use a combination of methods to assist with recovery. This includes rest, elevation, ICE, anti-inflammatory medications and compression. See your specialist early to get a proper diagnosis.
For knee pain without injuries, these can be related to overuse conditions such as tendinitis or arthritis of the knee. Consult your specialist who may recommend x-rays or MRI scans of the knee.
Can I fix my knee without surgery?
Certain knee conditions are treatable without surgery. Muscle and tendon strains and minor tears can recover with just rest and physiotherapy. However, for more severe conditions, a knee replacement may be needed. Learn more about knee replacement here.
What are the first signs of needing a knee replacement?
Signs of needing a knee replacement include worsening knee pain with simple activities such as getting out a chair or climbing the stairs. Other symptoms include deformity or bow-legged appearance to the legs and swelling after walking short distances.
Is a knee replacement worth it?
Knee replacements are very common in persons above 60 years of age. When done well, they relieve pain and help patients regain their mobility and freedom to walk again. Ask your surgeon today if a knee replacement is suitable for your condition.
How much does knee treatment cost in Singapore?
The cost of knee treatment in Singapore depends on the cause of knee pain. It may just require simple medications to assist with swelling and pain. Injections can range between $150 to $1000 depending on the type of injection. Plate-rich plasma injections and visco-supplementation start from $1000.
Surgery treatment costs depend on the surgery performed, and if implants and devices are needed to fix the damaged structures. These are performed at the operating theatre and are insurance claimable.
What is the recovery time after knee surgery?
Recovery time varies depending on the type of surgery. Arthroscopic procedures may have a quicker recovery time, often weeks to a few months, whereas major surgeries like knee replacement may require several months.
How can I prevent knee injuries?
Some preventive measures include maintaining a healthy weight, regular exercise to strengthen the muscles around the knee and proper stretching before activities.
Are knee injections painful?
Patients may experience discomfort during the injection, but most knee injections include a local anaesthetic to minimise pain. The discomfort is usually short-lived, and many find the pain relief from the injection to be beneficial.
Is knee replacement surgery a permanent solution?
Knee replacements can last for 15-20 years or more, depending on the patient’s activity level, weight, and other factors. However, they may eventually wear out and require revision surgery.
Can a knee specialist help with sports-related knee injuries?
Knee specialists are skilled in treating sports-related knee injuries, such as ACL tears, meniscus injuries, and patellar tendinitis. They can provide both surgical and non-surgical treatment options tailored to the needs of athletes and active individuals.
What are the risks of delaying treatment for knee pain?
Delaying treatment can lead to worsening pain, further damage to the knee joint, decreased mobility, and in some cases, the need for more invasive treatment options down the line.