Author Archives: Tigran Garabekyan, M.D.

Each of the shoulders contains a group of muscles and other soft tissues referred to as the rotator cuff. The rotator cuff provides a great deal of stability to the shoulder joint and gives the arm a wide range of movement. If one of the tendons in the rotator cuff is torn due to an injury, then it can restrict the use of your arm. This can make it hard to carry out regular tasks, work duties, or participate in sports. In cases where the tear is minor, it may be possible to recover by taking a break and going through physical therapy. However, in a lot of situations when the tear is more serious, surgery may be required. Southern California Hip Institute (SCHI), led by board certified orthopedic surgeon Dr. Tigran Garabekyan, provides rotator cuff surgery to patients in Los Angeles, Century City, Beverly Hills, CA, and surrounding locations.

Rotator Cuff Surgery

Depending on the extent of your injury, tears to the rotator cuff can sometimes be treated with PRP injections and physical therapy. For more serious injuries, arthroscopic surgery is recommended. Surgery is minimally invasive and involves repairing the tendon and reattaching it to the bone.

Rotator Cuff Surgery Recovery

After your surgery, it is critical to follow your surgeon’s post-op instructions to avoid re-injury to the shoulder. By doing this, you will guarantee a calm recovery and the least amount of pain during the process. You will need to have your arm in a sling at all times, and you will start physical therapy a few weeks later. With a series of physical activities observed by your surgeon and physical therapist, you will eventually restore your full range of motion. You should continue with the exercises you were taught in physical therapy for about four to six months to keep the shoulder strong. Southern California Hip Institute (SCHI), led by board certified orthopedic surgeon Dr. Tigran Garabekyan, provides rotator cuff surgery to patients in Los Angeles, Century City, Beverly Hills, CA, and surrounding locations.

Contact the Southern California Hip Institute

Dr. Tigran Garabekyan is a board certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in hip preservation. To learn more about Southern California Hip Institute or to schedule a consultation, click here to contact us or call:

Century City / Los Angeles: 310.595.1030

Serving patients in Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Century City, West Hollywood, North Hollywood Encino, Sherman Oaks, Van Nuys, Burbank, Glendale and other neighboring cities in the greater Los Angeles, California area.

Also visit http://www.drgorthopedics.com/

After a serious rotator cuff injury, surgery is often required in order to continue playing sports and being active. Recovery from this surgery typically takes a few months and involves minimal pain, with the most significant discomfort presenting in the first few days to weeks following the procedure. During your consultation, your surgeon will inform you of everything you should expect following surgery, including your comfort during recovery. Southern California Hip Institute (SCHI), led by board certified orthopedic surgeon Dr. Tigran Garabekyan, provides rotator cuff surgery to patients in Los Angeles, Century City, Beverly Hills, CA, and surrounding locations.

Rotator Cuff Surgery Recovery

Following surgery, it is essential to follow your surgeon’s post-op instructions to avoid any further damage to your shoulder. Doing this will insure that you have a smooth recovery and the least amount of pain during this process. You will be required to wear an arm sling at all times, and you’ll begin physical therapy after a few weeks. Through a set of physical activities monitored by your surgeon and physical therapist, you will eventually get your full range of motion back. You should keep up with the exercises you were taught in physical therapy for a period of four to six months to prevent re-injury and pain.

Managing Post-Op Rotator Cuff Pain

If you experience significant pain following your procedure, discuss this with your doctor right away so they may help you make adjustments.  Cold compresses are recommended to help relieve pain and swelling following surgery, and you will be prescribed pain medications as well. Some patients may find it easier to sleep sitting in a reclining chair during recovery. Southern California Hip Institute (SCHI), led by board certified orthopedic surgeon Dr. Tigran Garabekyan, provides rotator cuff surgery to patients in Los Angeles, Century City, Beverly Hills, CA, and surrounding locations.

Contact the Southern California Hip Institute

Dr. Tigran Garabekyan is a board certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in hip preservation. To learn more about Southern California Hip Institute or to schedule a consultation, click here to contact us or call:

Century City / Los Angeles: 310.595.1030

Serving patients in Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Century City, West Hollywood, North Hollywood Encino, Sherman Oaks, Van Nuys, Burbank, Glendale and other neighboring cities in the greater Los Angeles, California area.

Also visit http://www.drgorthopedics.com/

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction is an arthroscopic surgery performed to remedy a torn ACL through the use of a tendon graft. Recovery from this procedure can take anywhere between four to nine months, depending on a number of factors. During your consultation, your surgeon will give you a complete overview of your surgery, including your expected recovery time. Southern California Hip Institute (SCHI), led by board certified orthopedic surgeon Dr. Tigran Garabekyan, provides ACL reconstruction surgery to patients in Los Angeles, Century City, Beverly Hills, CA, and surrounding locations.

ACL Reconstruction Procedure

During an ACL reconstruction, the surgery is conducted using a small incision and arthroscopic technology. Once the torn ACL is removed from the middle of the knee, tunnels are made in the femur and tibia to insert a tendon graft that will work as the new ACL. The tendon graft is connected to the tunnels with absorbable screws and a tiny titanium button tied together with sutures.

Where Does the Tendon Graft Come From?

Depending on your age and condition, the tendon graft may be harvested from your hamstring or from a tissue bank. Harvesting the tendon from your own body is ideal since it is already compatible with the body’s biology and there is no need for sterilization. It is recommended that patients younger than 25 years old opt for this to prolong the life of the tendon graft. Patients over 25 years old may choose to be their own donor, or opt for a tissue bank.

Recovery Timeline

Your recovery speed largely depends on many factors, including your health, age, and the extent of your injury. Most patients can expect to go home on the day of surgery and resume light household activities within 1 – 2 days. You will need to take prescription pain medications for about 1 – 2 weeks. You may resume driving in about a week and return to a desk job in 3 – 4 weeks. Around the 4 – 6 month mark, you should be able to walk unassisted and resume labor-intensive jobs and sports activities.

Southern California Hip Institute (SCHI), led by board certified orthopedic surgeon Dr. Tigran Garabekyan, provides ACL reconstruction surgery to patients in Los Angeles, Century City, Beverly Hills, CA, and surrounding locations.

Contact the Southern California Hip Institute

Dr. Tigran Garabekyan is a board certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in hip preservation. To learn more about Southern California Hip Institute or to schedule a consultation, click here to contact us or call:

Century City / Los Angeles: 310.595.1030

Serving patients in Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Century City, West Hollywood, North Hollywood Encino, Sherman Oaks, Van Nuys, Burbank, Glendale and other neighboring cities in the greater Los Angeles, California area.

Also visit http://www.drgorthopedics.com/

Long-term hip discomfort can disrupt everyday life by making it difficult to sit, stand, or move around. This pain can prevent one from leading an active lifestyle or doing activities they enjoy. Hip replacement surgery can be greatly beneficial to individuals that experience this pain. During your consultation, your orthopedic surgeon will evaluate your health and determine whether you are a good candidate for surgery. Southern California Hip Institute (SCHI), led by board certified orthopedic surgeon Dr. Tigran Garabekyan, provides hip replacement surgery to patients in Los Angeles, Century City, Beverly Hills, CA, and surrounding locations.

What Is Hip Replacement Surgery?

Hip replacement surgery is performed for patients that have major damage to the cartilage and bone in the hip joints. During surgery, parts of the hip joint are removed and replaced with artificial implants. With a successful operation, the function and mobility of the hip are restored and pain is relieved. 

Who is a Good Candidate for Hip Replacement Surgery?

Hip replacement surgery is most common for patients between 50 and 80 years old, however, can be performed at any age if deemed medically necessary. This surgery is beneficial for individuals that have hip pain that does not improve with medication, physical therapy, or exercise. Those who suffer from arthritis, have suffered an injury, or have had long-term issues with hip pain may also be good candidates for surgery. During your consultation, your surgeon will help you determine whether surgery is your best option.

Hip Replacement Benefits 

Undergoing hip replacement surgery can help you get back to your active lifestyle and enjoy your favorite activities again. With successful surgery, you will be able to regain your mobility and be pain-free. Southern California Hip Institute (SCHI), led by board certified orthopedic surgeon Dr. Tigran Garabekyan, provides hip replacement surgery to patients in Los Angeles, Century City, Beverly Hills, CA, and surrounding locations.

Contact the Southern California Hip Institute

Dr. Tigran Garabekyan is a board certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in hip preservation. To learn more about Southern California Hip Institute or to schedule a consultation, click here to contact us or call:

Century City / Los Angeles: 310.595.1030

Serving patients in Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Century City, West Hollywood, North Hollywood Encino, Sherman Oaks, Van Nuys, Burbank, Glendale and other neighboring cities in the greater Los Angeles, California area.

Also visit http://www.drgorthopedics.com/

The labrum is cartilage that lines and supports the shoulder joint, rotator cuff tendons, and muscles. The labrum helps keep the shoulder stable, and when torn and injured, can cause dislocation of the shoulder. Depending on the severity of the tear, the shoulder may be able to repair with only physical therapy. To prevent further damage to the shoulder, you should schedule a consultation with an orthopedic specialist to be evaluated. Southern California Hip Institute (SCHI), led by board certified orthopedic surgeon Dr. Tigran Garabekyan, provides treatment of injured labrum to patients in Los Angeles, Century City, Beverly Hills, CA, and surrounding locations.

How do I know if my labrum is torn?

Indications of a torn labrum include shoulder pain, instability, or feeling like the shoulder is grinding or locking up during movement. Your symptoms may vary based on the type of tear you may have.

Do I Need Surgery?

Depending on the severity of your injury, it is possible for the labrum to heal with physical therapy. You will need to undergo a physical exam and have an X-ray or MRI to determine how injured the labrum is and the appropriate treatment. For minor dislocations, the shoulder can usually be put back into place and strengthened with physical therapy. More serious injuries may require pain medications, cortisone injections, and a few weeks of physical therapy. If the shoulder does not improve following physical therapy, surgery is recommended.

Older patients that do not engage in much physical activity do not necessarily need to undergo surgery. Surgery is recommended for younger patients that are still active or that engage in sports. Southern California Hip Institute (SCHI), led by board certified orthopedic surgeon Dr. Tigran Garabekyan, provides treatment of injured labrum to patients in Los Angeles, Century City, Beverly Hills, CA, and surrounding locations.

Contact the Southern California Hip Institute

Dr. Tigran Garabekyan is a board certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in hip preservation. To learn more about Southern California Hip Institute or to schedule a consultation, click here to contact us or call:

Century City / Los Angeles: 310.595.1030

Serving patients in Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Century City, West Hollywood, North Hollywood Encino, Sherman Oaks, Van Nuys, Burbank, Glendale and other neighboring cities in the greater Los Angeles, California area.

Also visit http://www.drgorthopedics.com/

Rotator cuff surgery is often required to continue enjoying sports and an active lifestyle after an injury. Recovery from this procedure typically requires four to six months before resuming sports and strength training at the gym. Your exact recovery time will depend on the extent of your injury and surgery. During your consultation, your orthopedic surgeon will give you an estimated timeline of when you will be able to return to the gym. Southern California Hip Institute (SCHI), led by board certified orthopedic surgeon Dr. Tigran Garabekyan, provides rotator cuff surgery to patients in Los Angeles, Century City, Beverly Hills, CA, and surrounding locations.

Rotator Cuff Surgery Recovery

After surgery, you will want to follow your surgeon’s post-operative instructions to avoid re-injury to your shoulder. You will be required to wear an arm sling 24/7 and will begin physical therapy after a few weeks. Your full range of motion will be regained after a series of exercises and close monitoring by your surgeon and physical therapist. After four to six months, you will want to continue doing the exercises you learned from physical therapy to prevent injury.

Returning to the Gym

Once you’re able to return to the gym, you’ll want to stretch and do your physical therapy exercises as a warm-up to your gym routine. This should take about 15 to 20 minutes and will help warm up the muscles for more rigorous exercises to follow. During your first few weeks back at the gym, you should avoid lengthy workouts involving your shoulder and gradually build back up to your normal routine over a course of weeks. Overuse of the shoulder is what commonly causes injury. If your physical therapist showed you cool-down exercises, you’ll want to perform these following your workout to prevent the muscles from tensing up. This should take about 20-30 minutes and will help you protect your shoulder after surgery. Southern California Hip Institute (SCHI), led by board certified orthopedic surgeon Dr. Tigran Garabekyan, provides rotator cuff surgery to patients in Los Angeles, Century City, Beverly Hills, CA, and surrounding locations.

Contact the Southern California Hip Institute

Dr. Tigran Garabekyan is a board certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in hip preservation. To learn more about Southern California Hip Institute or to schedule a consultation, click here to contact us or call:

Century City / Los Angeles: 310.595.1030

Serving patients in Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Century City, West Hollywood, North Hollywood Encino, Sherman Oaks, Van Nuys, Burbank, Glendale and other neighboring cities in the greater Los Angeles, California area.

Also visit http://www.drgorthopedics.com/

Hamstring tear or strain is also known as a pulled hamstring. This injury occurs in the back muscles of the thigh and are common among athletes that need to sprint while performing their sports. In fact, hamstring injuries are regarded as the most common injuries in the United States with millions visiting the doctor each year. 

Southern California Hip Institute (SCHI), led by outstanding board certified orthopedic surgeon Dr. Tigran Garabekyan, provides orthopedic surgery to patients in Los Angeles, Century City, Beverly Hills, CA, and surrounding communities. 

What are Hamstring Tears?

The hamstrings comprise of three muscle groups:

• the biceps femoris
• the semitendinosus
• the semimembranosus

Complete tears affect all three muscles while partial tears affect one or two tears. Hamstring muscles extend all the way to below the knee from under the buttocks. These muscles join the bones through the hamstring tendons. The muscles and tendons help your knees bend and flex promoting balance and mobility. 

Hamstring tears usually occur when the muscles are overloaded or overstretched. Risk factors include:

• muscle weakness
• muscle tightness
• old age
• muscle strength imbalance
• improper training or poor conditioning

Signs of a Hamstring Tear

Sharp pain

Hamstring tears are usually accompanied by acute sharp pain in the back of the thigh near the muscle attachment to buttocks. The pain is often preceded by a popping or snapping sound at the moment of injury.

Bruising or swelling

Significant tissue damage is caused by hamstring tears resulting in significant bruising and swelling. Bruises may take a few days to appear while swelling may become apparent within a few hours of the injury.

Leg weakness

Hamstrings are responsible for the movement of the knees and hips when you run, walk, squat, or bend. Most people with torn hamstrings find these movements difficult.

Weight bearing problems

Hamstring tears make it difficult to bear weight on the leg in addition to finding moving and bending difficult. Most people experience a leg buckling feeling. They feel that their legs will give way if they attempt to place any weight on it. 

Treating Hamstring Tears

Treatment depends on a wide array of factors. This includes the physical goals and condition of the patient and the extent of the hamstring tear. Whether you have a partial or a full hamstring tear, it may not heal on its own. This means that surgery is most often the recommended route for restoring normal function by repairing the tear in almost every instance. 

You should consider working with a skilled endoscopic surgeon that has a high success rate. In general, small incisions are preferable to the traditional open surgery that requires larger incisions. You should not miss out on the period of physical therapy following the surgery for restoring strength and function in your legs. 

You should speak with a skilled orthopedic specialist as soon as possible if you believe that you may have torn your hamstring or have some other symptom of an injury. Considerate board certified orthopedic surgeon Dr. Tigran Garabekyan receives patients from Los Angeles, Century City, Beverly Hills, CA, and nearby areas for orthopedic surgery.

Contact the Southern California Hip Institute

Dr. Tigran Garabekyan is a board certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in hip preservation. To learn more about Southern California Hip Institute or to schedule a consultation, click here to contact us or call:

Century City / Los Angeles: 310.595.1030

Serving patients in Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Century City, West Hollywood, North Hollywood Encino, Sherman Oaks, Van Nuys, Burbank, Glendale and other neighboring cities in the greater Los Angeles, California area.

Also visit http://www.drgorthopedics.com/