Meniscus Tears

Meniscus tears are a common knee injury, especially among athletes and active individuals. The meniscus is a piece of cartilage that provides cushioning and stability to the knee joint. Tears can occur due to sudden twisting movements, direct impact, or degeneration over time. Effective diagnosis and treatment are crucial for restoring knee function and preventing long-term damage.

Common Symptoms

Pain in the knee, especially when twisting or rotating the knee
Swelling and stiffness
Difficulty straightening the knee fully
A popping sensation at the time of injury
A feeling of the knee being locked or stuck
Limited range of motion

Common Injury: Meniscus tears are one of the most frequently occurring knee injuries, particularly in sports like soccer, basketball, and skiing.
Different Types: Meniscus tears can vary in type and severity, including radial, horizontal, and complex tears, each requiring specific treatment approaches.
Age Factor: While acute meniscus tears are common in younger athletes, older individuals are more prone to degenerative meniscus tears due to wear and tear over time.
Surgical and Non-Surgical: Many meniscus tears can be treated non-surgically with physical therapy, while others may require arthroscopic surgery for repair or removal of the damaged tissue.

Meniscus tears are typically caused by forceful twisting or rotating movements of the knee, often during sports activities. They can also result from deep squatting or heavy lifting and, in older adults, from degenerative changes in the knee.

Diagnosis involves a physical examination, review of symptoms, and imaging tests such as MRI to confirm the presence and extent of the tear.

Treatment options depend on the size and location of the tear and the patient’s age and activity level. Non-surgical treatments include rest, ice, compression, elevation (RICE), physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications. Surgery may be required for larger tears or tears that do not heal with conservative treatment.

Recovery varies; minor tears may heal with conservative treatments within a few weeks to months, while surgical recovery can take several months. Physical therapy is crucial for both non-surgical and post-surgical recovery to restore strength and range of motion in the knee.

Preventative measures include maintaining strong and flexible leg muscles, using proper technique during sports and physical activities, and avoiding deep squatting or heavy lifting that puts excessive strain on the knees.

If you experience persistent knee pain, swelling, difficulty moving the knee, or a feeling of the knee catching or locking, it is important to seek medical advice to determine the extent of the injury and receive appropriate treatment.

If you experience persistent knee pain, swelling, or difficulty moving the knee that interferes with daily activities or athletic performance, it is important to seek medical advice to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment.