Most of us remain blissfully unaware of our meniscus until knee pain strikes. Once this crucial shock absorbing cartilage ceases to work properly, it may lead to ongoing pain and inflammation.
Fortunately, there are a variety of surgical and nonsurgical options that repair the damage and pain of a torn meniscus. Sports medicine doctor and orthopedic surgeon Robert A. Mileski, MD, treats meniscus tears and more at Phoenix Orthopedic Group in Scottsdale, Arizona.
Each year, around 1 million people in the United States experience meniscus tears. Located in the middle of each knee between your thighbone and shinbone, the meniscus is composed of two C-shaped pieces of cartilage. It often tears as a result of a sports injury or degeneration due to arthritis or aging.
An acute tear may occur when you:
A degenerative tear, on the other hand, develops gradually over time. Dr. Mileski repairs both acute and degenerative tears.
Whether you’ve torn your meniscus by twisting your knee playing sports or simply walking over uneven terrain, certain symptoms usually appear within 24 hours. These include:
Dr. Mileski examines your knee and diagnoses your injury through X-rays or MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) to help choose the best course of action.
Dr. Mileski may employ platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections containing growth factors and other restorative substances from your own blood to reduce your inflammation and pain.
During the initial stages of your injury, we suggest the RICE method, which includes:
We may recommend medication, as well, to ease your pain.
Dr. Mileski offers arthroscopic knee surgery to repair your torn meniscus. This minimally invasive surgery involves smaller incisions than traditional surgery.
During the procedure, Dr. Mileski:
Dr. Mileski completes the surgery by closing your incision and bandaging your knee.
During the first few days following your procedure, Dr. Mileski recommends you:
We may also prescribe physical therapy or at-home exercises to rebuild your strength and mobility.
While we offer various ways to repair your torn meniscus and reduce your pain, the best option is to avoid tearing your meniscus in the first place. To that end, Dr. Mileski proposes several suggestions, such as:
Movement-based stretching often works better than static stretches. By mirroring the specific actions of your upcoming activity, your body eases into it, reducing risk of injury and soreness.
Strengthening your legs helps reduce pressure to the meniscus.
Repairing any other injuries, such as anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) sprains, to lower your risk of meniscal tears.
Dr. Mileski treats a variety of injuries as well as meniscus tears.
Minor meniscus tears may resolve through gentle exercise, such as:
Stay away from deeper squats or any movement that involves twisting your knees. Check with Dr. Mileski before beginning any exercise routine when dealing with knee pain to ensure the best outcome.
The most common sign of a torn meniscus is persistent knee pain and swelling. If you’re experiencing sudden or ongoing knee pain, or wish to discuss other orthopedic issues, simply schedule a consultation online or by phone with Dr. Mileski at Phoenix Orthopedic Group today.
