Sports Medicine · Musculoskeletal Care · Novi, MI

Shoulder and Knee Injuries in Novi, MI

Shoulder and knee injuries are among the most common musculoskeletal problems affecting people of all ages. Whether you are an athlete, a busy professional, or simply living an active life, these joints are essential for everyday movement — and when they hurt, everything is affected. Early evaluation leads to better outcomes.

Physical examination and same-visit evaluation
On-site digital X-ray — results reviewed same visit
MRI ordering and orthopedic referral when needed
Dr. Victor Faris — fellowship-trained sports medicine
Request an appointment Walk-in Urgent Care 📞 (248) 426-7200

Serving Novi, West Bloomfield, Northville, Farmington Hills and all of Oakland County

COMMON CONDITIONS

Shoulder and knee injuries we evaluate and treat

Most shoulder and knee injuries result from overuse, sudden trauma, repetitive motion, or gradual degeneration. Early evaluation is the most important factor in avoiding long-term joint problems.

💪 SHOULDER CONDITIONS

Rotator cuff tears — partial or complete tears of the rotator cuff tendons from acute injury or chronic degeneration

Shoulder impingement — rotator cuff tendons pinched under the acromion, causing pain with overhead movement

Bursitis — inflammation of the bursa causing localized pain and swelling around the shoulder joint

Shoulder dislocation — the humeral head displaced from the glenoid socket, often from a fall or direct blow

Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis) — progressive stiffness and pain limiting all shoulder movement

Common shoulder symptoms:

Pain with overhead or reaching movements
Weakness when lifting or rotating the arm
Limited range of motion or stiffness
Night pain — difficulty sleeping on the affected side

🦵 KNEE CONDITIONS

ACL and MCL sprains — ligament injuries from pivoting, twisting, or contact — common in soccer, basketball, and skiing

Meniscus tears — damage to the cartilage cushion between the thigh and shin bone, causing pain, locking, or swelling

Patellar tendinitis — jumper’s knee, pain at the base of the kneecap from repetitive jumping or running

Knee bursitis — inflammation of the bursae causing localized swelling and pain around the knee joint

Osteoarthritis — gradual cartilage loss causing chronic knee pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility

Common knee symptoms:

Swelling, bruising, or warmth around the joint
Instability or giving way when bearing weight
Difficulty bending, straightening, or bearing weight
Pain with walking, stairs, or sitting for long periods

DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT

A clear diagnosis first — then the right treatment plan

Diagnosing a shoulder or knee injury begins with a thorough physical examination and medical history. Imaging studies confirm the diagnosis and guide treatment decisions.

🔍 How we diagnose

Physical examination — range of motion, strength testing, joint stability, and palpation to localize the injury

Medical history review — mechanism of injury, symptom timeline, prior injuries, and functional limitations

On-site digital X-ray — to rule out fracture and assess bone structure, reviewed same visit

MRI or ultrasound referral — when soft tissue evaluation of ligaments, tendons, or cartilage is needed

⚕️ Treatment options

The goal is always to reduce pain, restore mobility, and prevent long-term joint problems. Most shoulder and knee conditions can be treated effectively without surgery.

Rest, ice, compression, and anti-inflammatory medications

Physical therapy and guided rehabilitation exercises

Bracing or joint support

Corticosteroid injections for inflammation

Referral to orthopedic specialist or surgeon when indicated

COMMON QUESTIONS

Frequently asked questions about shoulder and knee injuries in Novi

Where can I get evaluated for a shoulder or knee injury in Novi, MI?

PrimeCare of Novi offers same-visit evaluation with on-site digital X-ray at 39555 W. Ten Mile Road, Suite 302, Novi, MI 48375. Dr. Victor Faris is a fellowship-trained sports medicine physician who evaluates and manages shoulder and knee injuries without requiring a specialist referral for most conditions. Call (248) 426-7200 or request an appointment online.

Do I need to see an orthopedic surgeon for a shoulder or knee injury?

Not always. Many shoulder and knee conditions — including rotator cuff tendinitis, impingement, bursitis, mild ligament sprains, patellar tendinitis, and early osteoarthritis — can be fully managed by a sports medicine physician without surgical consultation. When surgery or specialist evaluation is warranted, we coordinate the referral directly. Starting with a sports medicine evaluation avoids unnecessary specialist appointments and gets you on the right path faster.

How do I know if my knee injury is serious?

Signs of a more serious knee injury include significant swelling within hours of the injury, inability to bear weight, a popping sound at the time of injury, the knee giving way or feeling unstable, or a locked knee that cannot be straightened. These symptoms suggest a possible ACL tear, meniscus tear, or fracture and warrant prompt evaluation. When in doubt, get it checked — early diagnosis prevents long-term joint damage.

Can shoulder and knee injuries heal without surgery?

Most can. The majority of shoulder and knee injuries — including partial rotator cuff tears, ligament sprains, bursitis, tendinitis, and early arthritis — respond well to non-surgical treatment including physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, activity modification, and injections. Complete ACL tears and certain meniscus tears may require surgery depending on the patient’s age, activity level, and instability. Your physician will guide you honestly on which approach is appropriate for your specific injury.

How long does recovery from a shoulder or knee injury take?

Recovery varies widely based on the type and severity of injury. Minor strains and bursitis may resolve in 2-4 weeks. Rotator cuff tendinitis and mild ligament injuries typically take 4-8 weeks with proper treatment. More significant injuries requiring surgery or extensive rehabilitation can take 3-6 months or longer. Early evaluation and consistent follow-through with your treatment plan are the biggest factors in recovery time.

Can I walk in for a same-day evaluation if I injure my shoulder or knee today?

Yes. PrimeCare Novi Urgent Care accepts walk-in patients for same-day evaluation of shoulder and knee injuries including on-site digital X-ray — no appointment needed. For non-urgent or follow-up care, PrimeCare of Novi primary care offers same-week appointments with Dr. Faris. Call (248) 426-7200 or visit pcnoviurgentcare.com for urgent care hours.

GET BACK TO MOVING PAIN-FREE

Living with joint pain isn’t something you have to accept

Whether your injury is sports-related, work-related, or age-related — the right diagnosis and treatment plan is the first step toward recovery. Schedule with Dr. Faris or walk in to our urgent care today.

Request an appointment Walk-in Urgent Care 📞 (248) 426-7200
📍 39555 W. Ten Mile Rd, Suite 302
Novi, MI 48375
Mon–Fri 8AM–5PM
Same-week appointments often available
Dr. Victor Faris, MD
Sports Medicine Fellowship

This page is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.