A meniscus tear is the most common knee injury, especially prevalent in people who engage in active sports. The knee may become stiff and swollen after a few days, leading to a diminished range of motion. That’s why Beacon Orthopedics & Sports Medicine recommends early treatment for a meniscus tear West Chester.
What causes a meniscus tear?
Meniscus tears occur when you twist the knee while placing weight on the joint. It affects the menisci, the cartilage between the tibia and femur that serves as a cushion.
A meniscus tear is prevalent among athletes but can affect people of any age or profession. It may be from a cut or blunt trauma to the knee.
Aging increases the likelihood of degenerative tissue damage that may cause a meniscus tear. Even standing from an awkward position could injure the tissue in older patients. A deformity in the shape of the menisci is another factor. The condition is rare, and its symptoms are often present from an early age.
Symptoms of meniscus tear
Pain and swelling around the knee are the most recognizable characteristics of a meniscus tear. You may find it challenging to extend or twist the knee.
You may notice a popping sound soon after the accident due to loose cartilage around the joint. There is usually mild or no pain immediately after the injury. But the sensations worsen between 24 and 72 hours.
The knee tends to lock while you are walking or running. You may feel like you are losing control of the joint. The stiffness can limit your mobility and stability.
Physical exams and diagnosis
Before treating the meniscus tear, your orthopedist evaluates your health history and examines your knee. Diagnostic tests include x-rays that provide visual data on the location of the bone, cartilage, and tissues.
Your practitioner will use other arthrography methods if the x-rays do not provide the necessary data. MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) and CT (Computer Tomography) scans can generate sharper visual images of the knee joint.
Your doctor will gently twist and extend your leg. You may feel some discomfort, but the twisting could indicate the extent and location of the tear.
Your medical history may offer clues to establish the exact mechanism of the injury. The progression of symptoms can determine the degree of the tear. For example, swelling and pain that increase gradually are usually a sign of an isolated lateral meniscus tear.
Treatment options for a meniscus tear
Since the severity of a meniscus tear may vary, there are several treatments. Your orthopedic specialist may recommend physical therapy, ice therapy, or thermal energy application for mild cases.
Severe meniscus tears usually require surgery. The latest cutting-edge treatment modalities involve making minute incisions to insert miniature devices. The dartlike instruments are placed across the tear to hold it together. Eventually, the devices will be absorbed by the body.
The procedure takes between 30 minutes to one hour. You can go back home after the surgical treatment.
Contact Beacon Orthopedics & Sports Medicine to schedule a meniscus tear appointment today.
