What is a Meniscal Tear?
The medial meniscus and lateral meniscus are the shock absorbers in each knee that act as a cushion between the thighbone and shin bone. They are small, rubbery discs that provide cushioning and stability for your knee. A torn meniscus is one of the most common knee injuries, particularly among athletes. When the meniscus is injured, it can result in knee instability as well as severe knee pain. Rehab is often recommended as part of a full recovery following a meniscus injury. At EPTG, our team of providers has extensive experience in treating athletes and patients of all ages who need treatment for a torn meniscus.
WHAT CAUSES A TORN MENISCUS?
A meniscal tear is usually caused when you forcefully twist or rotate your knee, such as aggressive turning or sudden stopping – motions that are quite common during sports. The following movements may result in meniscus tears:
- Sudden twisting
- Sudden changes in direction
- Lifting heavy objects
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF A MENISCAL TEAR?
Symptoms of a meniscus tear will vary from patient to patient and may include any of the following:
- Knee pain – usually on the side or center of your knee
- Knee swelling
- Knee stiffness
- Inability to fully bend your knee
- Sharper pain when bending down or twisting your knee
- Knee pain that comes and goes
DO I NEED TREATMENT FOR A MENISCUS TEAR?
Depending on the severity of the meniscus tear, surgery may be needed – particularly for athletes, as well as young patients and active patients. Whether you undergo surgery or not, in most cases your torn meniscus treatment will involve a rehabilitation program. Our team of doctors can develop a personalized plan of recovery for you. We emphasize compassionate, one-on-one care using the most current approaches to get you back to the activities you love.
