You went for a layup at the RDV Sportsplex or tried to return a fast serve at the Merrill Park pickleball courts, and then you felt it—a pop, a tear, or a sharp pain that stopped you in your tracks. Now you're sidelined, and the Florida heat isn't the only thing making you sweat; you're worried about recovery time, costs, and whether you'll need surgery.
Living in Central Florida means we stay active year-round, but that constant activity increases the risk of wear-and-tear injuries. Finding the right specialist is the first step toward recovery. Here is what happens when you visit an orthopedic surgeon in the Altamonte Springs area, from the costs you might face to the timelines for getting back on your feet.
What Common Sports Injuries Do We Treat?
In Central Florida, we see a high volume of ACL tears, meniscus injuries, and rotator cuff tears due to our year-round outdoor sports culture. Golfers in Seminole County frequently deal with elbow tendinitis, while our tennis and pickleball players often face shoulder impingements. We also treat fractures and sprains resulting from high-impact collisions.
While many injuries happen during recreation, some occur while you're on the clock. If your injury happened on a job site rather than a tennis court, the process changes slightly. Our team handles these cases regularly, and you can learn more about how we work with Workers Compensation to ensure your care is covered and you can return to your duties safely.
Regardless of how it happened, the initial symptoms usually look the same: swelling, instability, or an inability to bear weight. If these symptoms last more than 48 hours, it's time to call a professional.
What Happens During Your First Consultation?
Your first visit usually takes 60 to 90 minutes, including paperwork, imaging, and the exam. You'll start with X-rays, which typically cost between $40 and $150 depending on your insurance copay. The surgeon will review these images, test your range of motion, and discuss your pain levels to determine if further imaging, like an MRI, is necessary.
An orthopedic surgeon Altamonte Springs Florida residents trust will not rush this process. We look for specific mechanical issues. For example, if your knee locks up or gives way, we check for ligament damage that X-rays might miss.
If an MRI is required to see soft tissue, this usually happens at a separate appointment. The cost for an MRI in the Orlando area varies wildly, generally ranging from $400 to $2,500 depending on your deductible and the facility you choose.
Do All Sports Injuries Require Surgery?
No, nearly 90% of sports injuries we see are treated non-surgically. We always explore conservative options first, such as physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, or corticosteroid injections. Surgery is usually the last resort after these methods fail to provide relief.
Sometimes, clarity is the most important part of the treatment plan. If you're dealing with a complex claim or need a neutral evaluation of your injury's cause and extent, you might need an assessment outside standard treatment. Our physicians conduct Independent Medical Examinations to provide objective, evidence-based opinions on diagnosis and work status.
For standard sports injuries, we often prescribe a 4-6 week course of physical therapy. This helps strengthen the muscles around the joint. If pain persists after six weeks of dedicated therapy, we revisit the conversation about surgical intervention.
What Are the Recovery Timelines for Surgery?
Recovery timelines vary significantly by procedure: a meniscus trim takes 4-6 weeks, while a full ACL reconstruction takes 6-9 months. Rotator cuff repairs generally require 4-6 months before you can return to full sports activity.
- Meniscus Repair: You might be on crutches for 1-2 weeks.
- ACL Reconstruction: You'll likely wear a brace for several weeks and start jogging around month three.
- Rotator Cuff: You will likely wear a sling for 4-6 weeks to protect the repair.
In Florida, our climate is a huge advantage for recovery. Unlike northern states where winter forces you inside, you can walk the Seminole Wekiva Trail or swim in your pool year-round as part of your low-impact rehabilitation. This accessibility often helps our local patients maintain their morale and fitness levels during the long recovery phase.
Choosing the Right Orthopedic Surgeon Altamonte Springs Florida
When looking for an orthopedic surgeon Altamonte Springs Florida, check for board certification and ask how many times they have performed your specific procedure in the last year. Experience matters. A surgeon who performs 50 ACL repairs a year will likely have better outcomes than one who performs five.
You should also look for a practice that understands the local lifestyle. We know that being unable to golf at Rolling Hills or walk around Cranes Roost Park affects your quality of life. We focus on functional recovery that matches your specific goals, not just generic healing.
Get Back to Your Active Life
Don't let a sports injury keep you on the sidelines indefinitely. Early diagnosis often leads to less invasive treatment options and a faster return to the activities you love. Whether it's a sprained ankle or a torn ligament, getting the right advice early saves you time, money, and pain in the long run.
If you're looking for an orthopedic surgeon Altamonte Springs Florida, we are here to help you regain your strength and mobility.
Contact Central Florida Bone & Joint Institute today at (386) 775-2012 to schedule your evaluation.