Treatment for Meniscus Tears
The meniscus is a wedge of cartilage that acts as a shock absorber inside the knee joint between the femur and the tibia. There are two menisci in each knee, one on the inside and one on the outside of the joint. Injury to the knee can cause a meniscus tear, resulting in pain and functional issues. Our orthopedic specialists at DOCS Health offer treatment for meniscus tears at our medical center in the Los Angeles area.
Causes and Symptoms of Meniscus Tears
Sports injuries are the most common cause of meniscus tears. The menisci are tough, elastic forms of cartilage, but they can be ripped when enough force is applied to the knee joint. A direct blow to the knee (like a tackle in football) or twisting the knee when it is bent can cause a meniscus tear. Meniscus tears become more likely with age as the cartilage becomes thinner and weaker. A simple twist of the knee can actually rip a meniscus in an elderly person.
There are various types of meniscus tears, but the symptoms are similar. These include:
- A popping sensation when the injury occurs
- Knee pain
- Locking or catching during knee movement
- Swelling and stiffness
- Weakness in the knee like it may “give out”
- Limited range of motion
The knee can still function with a meniscus tear, but it may be painful and limited. Treatment could be needed to help repair the meniscus and rehabilitate the knee. Tears on the outside of the meniscus can often heal without surgery. Non-surgical treatments include rest, ice, compression and elevation with the use of NSAIDs for pain. Other treatments may involve wearing a brace, physical therapy and injection therapy. For severe or inner meniscus tears, surgery may be required to repair the cartilage.
If you sustain a knee injury, contact our team at DOCS Health for a diagnosis and treatment. We can determine if you have a torn meniscus and recommend a treatment plan for recovery. Contact us at our orthopedic clinic in Los Angeles to learn more about treatment for meniscus tears.
Doctors who treat this condition
Unless otherwise indicated, the physician is a member of DOCS Health Medical Group and has medical staff privileges at DOCS Surgery Center, DOCS Surgical Hospital, or both. Physicians denoted with an asterisk (*) are independent physicians who are not part of DOCS Health Medical Group, but do have medical staff privileges at DOCS Surgery Center, DOCS Surgical Hospital, or both.