Meniscus Tear

Do I have a meniscus tear?

One of the most common knee injuries seen here at Direct Orthopedic Care (DOC) in Boise, Idaho is a meniscus tear. The meniscus refers to the pieces of cartilage located on either side of the knee, namely the medial and lateral menisci. The purpose of the meniscus is to provide cushioning and protection for ligaments in the knee. In some cases, the meniscus is damaged slowly over time, causing fraying that cannot be repaired. Meniscus tears in younger adults are usually clean tears, which are easier to repair. When someone injures their meniscus, they usually experience pain, swelling, and limited range of motion.

I have a meniscus tear. Now what?

Meniscus tears are treated surgically and non-surgically depending on the severity of the tear, its location, and the patient’s age. Most patients who have surgical interventions do so in order to repair mechanical issues related to the meniscal tear, such as locking of the knee, an inability to straighten the knee, or a clicking/popping sound in the knee joint.

If a patient has an acute tear, non-surgical treatment may be successful in pain control. The patient can ice the knee, in addition to decreasing physical activity. If this doesn’t help, a provider can prescribe physical therapy or a steroid injection to decrease inflammation within the joint. If these measures are unsuccessful at relieving pain, then a surgical intervention may be the necessary next step. It is rare to have a meniscus tear heal on its own without surgery since most non-surgical options will help to relieve symptoms but not heal the tear.

There are two major surgeries for a meniscus tear. The more common surgery is a meniscectomy, which involves the excision of all or a portion of the meniscus. Traditionally, patients have had a lot of success with this procedure. But over time, the lack of a meniscus can lead to increase wear and tear on the knee, which may create the need for a knee replacement in the future.

Am I a candidate for meniscus repair surgery?

Another newer surgical option for meniscus tear is a meniscus repair. To be eligible for this surgery, the tear must be located on the outside edge of the meniscus, where there is adequate blood flow to support healing. If a repair is possible, the outcomes are more successful compared to a meniscectomy. Several factors influence the success of a meniscus repair surgery. Most importantly, commitment to rehabilitation is key. After a meniscus surgery, patients will have weight-bearing and range of motion restrictions, in addition to regular attendance at physical therapy sessions. If patients are committed to their recovery, they can heal in 8 months.

If you are concerned about a knee injury, walk-in to DOC. We are open 365 days of the year!