expert type icon EXPERT

Dr. Keith Ward Louden, MD

Orthopaedic Surgeon

Dr. Keith W. Louden is an orthopedic surgeon who diagnoses and treats patients at Medical City Surgery Center Fort Worth in Fort Worth, Texas. Dr. Louden attended the University of Texas School of Medicine at San Antonio in San Antonio, Texas, and earned his medical degree in 1995. He then went on to complete his internship and orthopedic surgery residency at the University of Texas School of Medicine at San Antonio in San Antonio, Texas. Dr. Louden became board-certified in orthopedic surgery by the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery. He was honored with the Compassionate Doctor Recognition (2014, 2016, 2018) and the Patients’ Choice Award (2018).
30 years Experience
Dr. Keith Ward Louden, MD
Specializes in:
  • Orthopaedic Surgeon
  • Fort Worth, Texas
  • University of Texas School of Medicine
  • Accepting new patients

How long after meniscus surgery can I walk?

It depends on if you had a meniscus repair or partial excision of a tear. If you had a partial excision you can weight bear or walk as tolerated. A repair would keep you not walking READ MORE
It depends on if you had a meniscus repair or partial excision of a tear. If you had a partial excision you can weight bear or walk as tolerated. A repair would keep you not walking on it for 4-6 weeks. Confirm with your surgeon at your next post-op appointment.

Good luck,

Dr. L

Can flat feet be fixed without surgery?

Flat feet can be supported by shoe inserts called orthotics, but actual transformation of the foot's anatomy does require surgery. The type of surgery is determined by the amount READ MORE
Flat feet can be supported by shoe inserts called orthotics, but actual transformation of the foot's anatomy does require surgery. The type of surgery is determined by the amount of deformity and the cause.

Good luck,

Dr. L

How do you test for knee instability?

Physical examination maneuvers primarily testing side to side and front to back stability. Typically performed by physicians, physical therapists, and athletic trainers. Good READ MORE
Physical examination maneuvers primarily testing side to side and front to back stability. Typically performed by physicians, physical therapists, and athletic trainers.

Good luck,

Dr. L

What is moving in my right knee?

The most likely cause is a loose body of cartilage. Typically, these require arthroscopic removal. They do not resorb on their own.

Good luck,

Dr. L

Can a dislocated elbow heal itself?

If the joint is reduced, which means realigned, the ligament injuries can heal with time. Imaging of the elbow should direct your doctor regarding the best course of action. Good READ MORE
If the joint is reduced, which means realigned, the ligament injuries can heal with time. Imaging of the elbow should direct your doctor regarding the best course of action.

Good luck,

Keith

Thigh pain?

The most worrisome diagnosis is a stress reaction or stress fracture in the femur with the increased activity and weight gain. Severe pain like that should be evaluated. I would READ MORE
The most worrisome diagnosis is a stress reaction or stress fracture in the femur with the increased activity and weight gain. Severe pain like that should be evaluated. I would start with my primary care physician. They should be able to steer you in the right direction.

Good luck,

Keith

What are the first signs of needing a hip replacement?

Typically, groin and buttock pain worse with activity like weight bearing. Pain that keeps you up at night or keeps you from enjoying life. Multiple interventions such as meditations, READ MORE
Typically, groin and buttock pain worse with activity like weight bearing. Pain that keeps you up at night or keeps you from enjoying life. Multiple interventions such as meditations, physical therapy, etc., should be tried before considering a hip replacement.

Good luck,

Dr. L

Can a rotator cuff that's torn 80% be repaired?

Absolutely, the majority of rotator cuff tears are repaired by anchoring the tendon to the bone of the proximal humerus with special devices like those used in rock climbing. Good READ MORE
Absolutely, the majority of rotator cuff tears are repaired by anchoring the tendon to the bone of the proximal humerus with special devices like those used in rock climbing.

Good luck,

Dr. L

What can you not do with tennis elbow?

Primarily repetitive lifting with your palm down or repetitive gripping and twisting with the forearm and hand on the same side. Typically, this is a self limited condition. Good READ MORE
Primarily repetitive lifting with your palm down or repetitive gripping and twisting with the forearm and hand on the same side. Typically, this is a self limited condition.

Good luck,

Dr. L

After Anterior Total Hip?

Best to check with your surgeon. Most cemented hip replacements are uncemented so the torsional loads are not an issue. However, the implants are mechanical devices which wear READ MORE
Best to check with your surgeon. Most cemented hip replacements are uncemented so the torsional loads are not an issue. However, the implants are mechanical devices which wear with use. Your surgeon can give you the best activity recommendations.

Good luck,

Dr. L

Heavy ankle with tingling toes?

These symptoms are most consistent with peripheral neuropathy. Your regular physician can point you in the right direction.

Good luck,

Dr. L

Is a knee brace considered an orthotic?

Technically, a knee brace is an orthosis for the knee, especially if it is custom made or custom fitted.

Good luck,

Dr. L

Does wearing a knee brace weaken the knee?

No, a knee brace doesn't weaken the knee. The quadriceps and hamstring muscles protect the knee. Their strength is the important part. If the brace fits well and you like it, it READ MORE
No, a knee brace doesn't weaken the knee. The quadriceps and hamstring muscles protect the knee. Their strength is the important part. If the brace fits well and you like it, it does not weaken your knee.

Good luck,

Dr. L

What does a torn ligament in the spine feel like?

They are very painful, but they also take a lot of force to tear. Most back injuries are muscle strains. Ice, analgesics, and early motion work best.

Good luck,

Dr. L

Does exercise help nerve regeneration?

Not specifically, but it can prevent muscle atrophy from disuse and it increases blood flow to the region. Both of these are positive. Your age is also a positive for faster regeneration, READ MORE
Not specifically, but it can prevent muscle atrophy from disuse and it increases blood flow to the region. Both of these are positive. Your age is also a positive for faster regeneration, but
be patient; nerves regenerate at best 1 mm/day.

Best of luck to you,

Dr. L

Why is my back still sore weeks after spine surgery?

It takes months to fully recover and at least six to eight weeks for the muscles to heal. Check with your surgeon in case there was anything that was different. Good luck, Dr. READ MORE
It takes months to fully recover and at least six to eight weeks for the muscles to heal. Check with your surgeon in case there was anything that was different.

Good luck,

Dr. L

Exterior knee pain and less than 140 degree flexation?

It sounds like you may have iliotibial band tendinitis. Ice, stretching, and activity modification typically help. Reputable on-line medical sites will have additional information READ MORE
It sounds like you may have iliotibial band tendinitis. Ice, stretching, and activity modification typically help. Reputable on-line medical sites will have additional information on IT band tendinitis.

Good luck,

Dr. L

How long does it take to recover from a dislocated knee?

A dislocated knee is a limb threatening emergency which usually involves disruption of 3 or more ligaments requiring multiple surgeries. Full recovery takes a minimum of 12 months, READ MORE
A dislocated knee is a limb threatening emergency which usually involves disruption of 3 or more ligaments requiring multiple surgeries. Full recovery takes a minimum of 12 months, although your orthopedic surgeon will guide you as you recover. This is a very severe injury.

Good luck,

Keith

Will an x-ray show a torn ligament in an ankle?

Only with displacement of the bones or a stress X-ray. An X-ray is a good first test, but an MRI is the best imaging study to diagnose a torn ankle ligament. Good luck, Dr. READ MORE
Only with displacement of the bones or a stress X-ray. An X-ray is a good first test, but an MRI is the best imaging study to diagnose a torn ankle ligament.

Good luck,

Dr. L

Shoulder torn tendon?

Once the pain has subsided from the original tear, you are at the same risk of another tear usually 6-8 weeks.

Good luck,

Dr. L