Meniscus Tear
Each knee has two menisci — one at the outer edge of the knee and one at the inner edge. They act as the knees' shock absorbers. The rubbery, C-shaped discs protect your thighbone and shinbone from grinding against each other. They also keep your knees steady by spreading your weight across the knees, which allows you to glide or turn.
What Is a Meniscus Tear?
There are three types of tears:
Minor tear —: Some pain and swelling that usually subsides with nonsurgical care after a few weeks.
Moderate tear — Pain is located at the side or center of your knee and swelling worsens over a couple days. Knee is stiff but you can still walk. Symptoms subside with nonsurgical care, but return if you overuse your knee.
Severe tear — You can feel your knee catch, pop or lock, and you may not be able to straighten your leg. Your knee may buckle.
A tear in the meniscal cartilage that occurs at the outside edges is easier to heal than ones that are inside because there is better blood supply.
What Causes a Meniscal Tear?
A meniscal tear is caused by twisting or overflexing the knee, heavy lifting or slow degeneration of the cartilage. The tear may be accompanied by a ruptured anterior curicate ligament (ACL).
What Are the Symptoms of a Meniscal Tear?
You may actually hear a popping sound at the time of the injury. Afterwards, you might experience:
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Stiffness, tendernesss and swelling at the joint
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Accumulation of fluid ("water on the knee")
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Catching or locking of your knee
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Knee buckling
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Pain when walking
How Is a Meniscal Tear Evaluated?
Your physician will conduct a physical exam to assess:
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Your gait, range of motion and knee stability
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Swelling and tenderness
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If knee locks or catches when pushed
The following tests may be ordered as well:
How Is a Meniscal Tear Treated?
Every tear is different in extent and placement, necessitating individually designed care.
Treatment depends on the type of tear, location and severity. Your age and how activity level are also factored in.
Self Care
If your knee is not locked or otherwise unstable, your physician will recommend that you follow the PRINCE treatment model:
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Protect your knee with a supportive brace.
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Rest your knee.
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Ice your knee several times a day for 10 to 20 minutes, until swelling subsides.
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Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) help with pain relief and swelling reduction.
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Compression with an elastic compression wrap also helps reduce swelling.
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Elevation. Lie back and prop up your knee to reduce swelling and bruising.
Nonsurgical
Surgical
If your knee doesn't respond to the nonsurgical approach, your physician may recommend arthroscopic surgery:
For more information or to make an appointment please call
1-877-233-WELL (9355).