The meniscus is a tough, rubbery cartilage structure located between your thigh bone and shinbone that acts as a shock absorber. Although it’s durable, a torn meniscus is one of the most common knee injuries.
Athletes are prone to meniscus tears, especially those who routinely perform twisting motions like pivoting. If the tear is small, you may be able to walk and perform everyday tasks with minimal pain and difficulty. However, in more severe instances, you may need surgery.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options for a Torn Meniscus
Depending on the severity, size, and location of your meniscus tear, it may heal without surgery. You should consult a sports medicine doctor before undergoing any treatment. This way, you can receive an accurate diagnosis and an appropriate treatment.
When you have a torn meniscus, it’s crucial to get an accurate diagnosis and treatment because your injury wouldn’t heal well otherwise. If your torn meniscus doesn’t heal properly, you may experience instability in your affected knee. This will significantly impact your athletic performance and how you go about everyday life. In addition, you may also be more prone to other knee injuries, particularly torn ligaments.
Your sports medicine physician may recommend the following if they deem your meniscus tear safe enough to heal without surgery:
R.I.C.E. Method
Your doctor may recommend the R.I.C.E. method to help facilitate the healing of your torn meniscus.
- Rest — Refrain from putting weight on your injured knee.
- Ice — Apply ice to the affected area to relieve pain and decrease swelling. Remove the ice after 20 minutes. Going for longer may cause additional tissue damage.
- Compress — Wrap a bandage around your knee to reduce inflammation.
- Elevate — Place your injured knee on a level above your heart to help reduce swelling.
Medication
If necessary, your sports medicine doctor may prescribe nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). These will help with pain management and reducing swelling.
Support Gear
Equipment that provides support may be necessary for the treatment of your torn meniscus. Your sports medicine doctor may recommend a cast or knee brace since your injury may cause instability and weakness.
In addition, your doctor will recommend that you wear a pair of well-fitted footwear that provides enough support for your feet arches. You should also wear shoes that are fit for the sport you play.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy can help you achieve stability for your knee joints. You can do so by stretching and strengthening your muscles, particularly your legs and knees.
Make sure to pace yourself when working out. Start slow and gradually build up the intensity of your exercises. You may want to keep the following in mind when you work out:
- Wear correct gear that provides ample support
- Use and maintain proper form and technique
- Do warm-up exercises and cool-down stretches
Arthroscopic Knee Surgery for a Torn Meniscus
Severe meniscus tears may not heal on their own. If that’s the case, your sports medicine physician may recommend arthroscopic knee surgery to repair the tear.
Knee arthroscopy is a safe, minimally-invasive procedure that makes use of small incisions. Compared to traditional surgeries, knee arthroscopy is typically an outpatient procedure. It has a shorter recovery period than open surgery and decreased infection risk, pain, and swelling.
The procedure is typically for large meniscus tears located on the outer sections of the knee cartilage. It’s also commonly done for tears sustained in the inner cartilage areas. Depending on your condition, your doctor may trim the torn pieces of your meniscus and smoothen the remaining sections. In other instances, your provider may stitch the torn meniscus pieces back together.
After arthroscopic surgery, your sports medicine physician may recommend that you rest and ice your injured knee. You may also be required to wear a cast or brace or help facilitate healing. Physical therapy may also help you get your strength back as you recover. In addition, therapy can help you avoid sustaining other injuries in the future.
Doctor of Sports Medicine in Naples, FL
Meniscus tears can sometimes heal on their own. However, it’s best to seek medical assistance to get an accurate diagnosis. A sports medicine doctor will also be able to recommend a treatment plan that’s best suited to your condition. Aside from that, they can help you regain knee strength and learn how to prevent reinjury.
If you’re looking for a sports medicine doctor in Naples, FL, look no further than the Joint Replacement Institute. Our healthcare providers and board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic specialists in Naples, FL, can give you a comprehensive and personalized treatment plan.
If you want to learn more about our orthopedic services, you may call our friendly staff at (239) 261-2663. If you would like to schedule a consultation, you may use our secure online appointment request form. We look forward to helping you get back on your feet!
