Repair Cartilage and Return to Action
A torn meniscus is not an injury seen only in athletes. Knee cartilage becomes thinner and weaker as we age. Any sudden action can trigger a meniscal injury.
Some patients report hearing a ‘pop!’ while they doing something as simple as rising to their feet or swinging out of bed. If you feel a sudden pain and then notice swelling and stiffness around the knee, you may have a torn meniscus.
Torn Meniscus Symptoms:
- pain in the kneecap area, and a swelling around the joint
- a ‘catch’ or locking of the knee when you make certain movements
- sudden weakness in the knee or a sense that the leg is collapsing when you try to stand
- limited range of motion that prevents you from walking or running freely
Diagnosing Meniscus Tears
Many patients carry on with with daily activities without realizing they’ve suffered a meniscal tear. If your knee continues to ache and you feel a popping or locking of the joint, it’s best to have the doctor examine you.
While you may be able to function with a torn meniscus, it could lead to complications if not treated. A fragment of cartilage can become lodged in the joint (which causes the locking or popping sensation).
In many patients, there is a pattern of tenderness along the joint. Dr. Jesse may administer a test called the McMurray which involves bending then straightening and rotating the knee. If this movement produces a clicking sound, that’s a sign that the meniscus is torn.
Other diagnostic tools include MRI. X-rays may be ordered to rule out other possible causes of pain, such as osteoarthritis.
Torn Meniscus Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the type of meniscal injury. Some can be treated conservatively, with rest, ice and medication.
Other tears can be relieved by surgery, to trim the torn cartilage or repair it. Treatment depends on the individual’s lifestyle, activities, age and general health, as well as the type of tear.
For more information, see the website of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
Common Questions about Torn Meniscus
What is a torn meniscus?
A torn meniscus can occur at any age but is more common in athletes playing contact sports. These tears usually result from twisting motions or over-flexing of the knee joint. Football, tennis, and basketball players are more likely to develop meniscal tears.
How will I know if I have a torn meniscus?
A painful inner and outer knee, swelling, stiffness, restricted movement, and difficulty straightening the knee may signify a torn meniscus. Our doctors will perform a physical exam and imaging tests to determine your condition.
Surgical treatment options depend on the tear’s location, severity, and pattern. Surgery may be recommended if conservative treatments like pain medication, rest, physical therapy, and knee immobilizers are ineffective.
We provide elite orthopedic care and sports medicine in Florida here at All-Pro Orthopedics & Sports Medicine. If you have a torn meniscus, we will determine its condition and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan depending on the patient’s age, activity level, type of tear, and related injuries.
How can I prevent a torn meniscus?
Since the meniscus supports up to half of the body’s weight in a standing position, it’s essential to protect them. Appropriate footwear is crucial, especially for sports such as football.
You should warm up gently before starting a workout. Warmups increase blood flow and flexibility. Muscle fatigue reduces your body’s natural protective mechanisms, increasing your risk of injury.
What are the surgical options for a torn meniscus?
Surgery can treat a torn meniscus, either through total or partial meniscectomy. Total meniscectomy removes the entire meniscus, while partial meniscectomy removes only the torn portion.
The total meniscectomy relieves symptoms, but because the entire meniscus is removed, the joints will lose cushioning and stability.
After a partial meniscectomy, rehabilitation exercises may help restore knee mobility, and strength, and improve range of motion, thereby maintaining knee stability offers faster and complete recovery.
We provide elite orthopedic care and sports medicine in Florida here at All-Pro Orthopedics & Sports Medicine. If you have a torn meniscus, we will determine its condition and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan depending on the patient’s age, activity level, type of tear, and related injuries.
What are the benefits of torn meniscus treatment at All-Pro Orthopedic & Sports Medicine in Florida?
All our locations in Florida have a team of doctors specializing in various orthopedic conditions and performing orthopedic procedures.
As a team of doctors, we can help you reach your physical goals and prescribe individualized treatment plans for your specific needs to get you back in the game as soon as possible.
You can trust our doctors to prescribe medications and perform surgery to help you with your torn meniscus and other related injuries.
About Dr. Jesse Shaw
Dr. Jesse Shaw is an orthopedic surgeon who specializes in Sports Medicine.
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