Harold Cates MD, TOA Joint Replacement Specialist

10/23/2025

Did you know? Every 1 pound of body weight = 4 pounds of pressure on your knees! 😳

Your weight plays a major role in knee pain management and overall joint health. Even small changes can make a big difference in reducing discomfort and improving mobility. 💪

10/16/2025

Shin splints are a common exercise-related condition that occurs when the muscles, tendons, and bone tissue around your tibia (shin bone) become inflamed. The pain is usually felt along the inner edge of the shin, where the muscles attach to the bone.

The most common cause of shin splints is overuse, especially from activities involving repetitive impact, such as running or jumping.

Treatment typically includes:
• 🩹 Rest: Take a break from the activity causing pain for several weeks to allow healing.
• 💊 Anti-inflammatory medication: Over-the-counter options like ibuprofen can help reduce pain and inflammation.
• ❄️ Ice therapy: Apply ice to the affected area to ease swelling and discomfort.
• 🧦 Compression: Use compression sleeves or wraps to support the area.
• 🧘 Stretching and flexibility exercises: Gentle stretching can help improve muscle balance and reduce tension.
• 👟 Proper footwear: Supportive shoes and orthotic inserts can correct foot mechanics and prevent recurrence.

With rest and proper care, most cases of shin splints resolve without long-term issues. However, persistent pain should be evaluated by a healthcare professional to rule out stress fractures or other conditions.

10/09/2025

A huge thank you to our incredible Physician Assistants, Laura Mowell and Cates Green! 🥳
Your expertise, compassion, and commitment make a difference for our patients every day. We’re so fortunate to have you on our team! 👏
Happy PA Week! 💙🧡

10/06/2025

We are excited about this new location!

We’ve got a new home! 🏡 The TOA Surgery Center is now at 9461 Sherrill Blvd.

More space, advanced technology, and the same trusted team... all to help you get back to what you love.

If you have any questions, please contact us at 865-531-0494 or parkwest-surgery-center.com

10/02/2025

⭐ Thank You, Brad! ⭐

Brad, thank you for taking the time to leave us such a wonderful review — we truly appreciate you and are ecstatic to know our team delivered! 💙

At Tennessee Orthopaedic Alliance East Tennessee, we strive every day to provide the highest quality of care for our patients. Hearing from those who’ve had a positive experience means the world to us.

Thank you for trusting us with your care! 🙌

09/25/2025

The end of the year is approaching—have you checked your insurance benefits and deductibles? 🗓️

✅ If you’ve met your deductible and need surgery, call our scheduling team ASAP—we’ll do our best to accommodate you and help you get the most out of your coverage.

📞 Call Today: (865) 690-4861
We can’t wait to hear from you!

09/18/2025

Orthopedic care shouldn’t be complicated. At Tennessee Orthopaedic Alliance East Tennessee, we’re committed to making high-quality care accessible, straightforward, and tailored to your needs—so you can get back to what matters most!

09/11/2025

🦵✨ Your Knees: The Unsung Heroes of Movement! ✨🦵

Every step, squat, or jump you take relies on your knees. These powerful joints connect your thigh and shin bones, stabilize your legs, and absorb shock—making them key players in mobility!

💡 Pro Tip: Strengthen your quads and hamstrings, stretch regularly, and don’t ignore knee pain—your future self will thank you! 💙

09/04/2025

👂 Ever wondered why your knee pops or clicks?
You’re not alone—knee sounds are super common! In many cases, it’s just gas bubbles in the joint fluid releasing (like cracking your knuckles). Other times, it can be from tendons or ligaments moving over the joint as you bend and straighten.

✅ Most of the time, these sounds are harmless.
⚠️ But if the popping comes with pain, swelling, or instability, it could be a sign of an underlying issue like arthritis, a cartilage injury, or a meniscus tear.

👉 Bottom line: Pops without pain? Usually nothing to worry about. Pops with pain? Time to get checked out!

📅 If you’re concerned about your knees, schedule an appointment—we’re here to help keep you moving smoothly.

09/01/2025

We would like to wish you all a Happy Labor Day!

08/28/2025

🍂 The summer heat is starting to fade, and that means fall is just around the corner!

We’re excited to announce that Dr. Cates is now scheduling fall and holiday appointments for consultations and surgeries.

📍 Contact Tennessee Orthopaedic Alliance – East Tennessee (Parkwest location) to reserve your spot today!
📞 (865) 690-4861
🌐 http://www.toaeasttn.com

Don’t wait — schedules fill up quickly this time of year. We look forward to seeing you soon!