Cartilage is tough connective tissue that cushions bone ends within bodily joints. It absorbs shock and allows joints to operate smoothly and comfortably. The meniscus is the knee cartilage located between your thigh bone (femur) and shin (tibia). In this blog, we will look at the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of a common orthopedic problem–a torn meniscus.
The Symptoms of a Torn Meniscus
A meniscus may tear with certain body movements and joint impacts created by sudden turns and twisting motions. This common orthopedic injury can happen during sports or even with everyday movements such as rising from a seated position.
Symptoms of a torn meniscus vary depending on how severe the tear is and its location within the knee joint. Common symptoms include:
- Swelling of the knee
- Pain
- A feeling of tightness and limited mobility
- Difficulty bearing weight on the joint
- A feeling of joint weakness
- Buckling or locking of the affected knee
Most people with torn menisci complain of very limited ability to bend and straighten their knees.
Diagnosis of a Torn Meniscus
If you are experiencing knee symptoms such as those noted here, consult your orthopedic surgeon for a complete in-office evaluation. This evaluation will include:
- Discussion of your symptoms and medical history
- A physical examination
- X-ray imaging and a possible MRI
When you talk with your orthopedic doctor, be as specific as possible about when your symptoms began and what movements seem to aggravate your condition. Your physician will perform a simple assessment called the McMurray test. With this hands-on assessment, the doctor bends the knee joint to check for pain, poor range of motion, and noise (clicking, for example).
Treatment of a Torn Meniscus
As with many orthopedic injuries or conditions, the initial best plan of treatment is RICE: rest, ice, compression, and elevation. A traditional and effective first aid protocol, RICE reduces swelling and pain in the injured knee joint.
In addition, orthopedic doctors usually recommend physical therapy to help strengthen the surrounding muscles, control pain and swelling, and improve range of motion. PT is based on the individual’s functional capacity, or ability to bend, bear weight, and perform other joint movements.
In some cases, a torn meniscus may require surgery–particularly if the damage involves the inner aspect of the cartilage. The inner two-thirds of the meniscus does not have a blood supply sufficient to heal the knee effectively. As such, the orthopedic specialist may advise surgery to modify the size and shape of the meniscus tear.
Surgery to repair a meniscus tear typically involves minimally invasive arthroscopy. With this procedure, the orthopedic surgeon makes small incisions around the knee joint to remove or repair the damaged tissue. Miniaturized imaging and surgical instruments minimize disruption of healthy tissues for quicker healing and return to normal activities.
After surgery, most patients benefit from physical therapy. PT strengthens the affected joint, reduces the need for pain medications, and speeds healing.
Preventing Torn Meniscus
While some meniscal tears occur suddenly from a sports injury or other activity, some develop from repetitive stress on the knee joint. To prevent a torn meniscus, maintain proper form and technique during physical activities, such as heavy lifting and sports. Avoid sudden changes in direction or pivoting sharply on a bent knee.
Also, warm up and stretch before engaging in any physical activity. Do the same during cool down to keep the muscles and tendons around the knee flexible and less prone to injury.
Additionally, maintain a healthy body weight to reduce strain on your knees. Staying trim and getting regular light to moderate aerobic exercise reduces the risk of meniscus tears, arthritis, repetitive motion injuries, and more.
If you do experience pain or discomfort in your knee, see your orthopedic specialist for evaluation and treatment. Ignoring symptoms may lead to further damage and, potentially, more invasive treatments.
Expert Care for Meniscus Tears in Naples, FL
At the Joint Replacement Institute, our professional team includes six board-certified physicians, along with physical therapists and physician assistants who partner with patients in optimal joint health and function. To learn more about injuries such as a torn meniscus, or if you think you have one, contact us at (239) 261-2663.
We will arrange a personalized consultation with one of our expert knee physicians. If you prefer, request your visit here. We look forward to seeing you in our Naples, FL, office soon.
