A meniscus tear, a condition that affects the cartilage safeguarding the ends of your leg bones, can occur due to improper twisting, hyperextension, or age-related degeneration. While this injury can impact anyone, it is prevalent among athletes and the physically active. Occasionally, it coincides with an ACL injury, affecting one of the knee’s ligaments.

Causes of Meniscus Tears

Meniscus injuries typically stem from sports and physical activities, yet they can surprisingly result from minor movements, especially in older individuals. Common causes include:

• Abrupt changes in direction
• Sudden knee twisting
• Participation in sports with rapid directional shifts
• Weightlifting

Symptoms of Meniscus Tears

Meniscus tear symptoms that warrant consultation with City Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine encompass:

• Knee pain
• Pain along the knee’s side or center
• Recurring or intermittent knee pain
• Audible clicking sensation or sound in the knee
• Knee stiffness
• Limited mobility or walking difficulty
• Inability to fully straighten the knee
• Knee instability or sudden “giving out”

Diagnosing a Meniscus Tear

Our experienced team boasts extensive expertise in managing various knee injuries, including meniscus tears. Rest assured, your knee evaluation and diagnosis at City Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine are in capable hands. Our doctors delve into your relevant medical history and conduct a thorough discussion of your knee concerns before reaching a diagnosis. In some cases, we may employ advanced imaging tests, such as X-rays, MRI scans, or CAT scans, to gain deeper insights into your condition.

Treating a Meniscus Tear

Meniscus injuries may find relief through conservative treatments, including:

• Rest
• Ice
• Elevation
• Compression
• Strength-building exercises
• Physical therapy

The Consequences of Untreated Meniscus Tears

Neglecting a suspected meniscus tear is ill-advised. While outer meniscus tears may have some potential for healing, inner portion tears typically do not. At City Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine, we often commence treatment with RICE therapy. However, when a meniscus tear accompanies an ACL tear, it compromises knee stability, increasing the risk of further damage and injury. Additionally, fragments from a torn meniscus can become lodged in the knee joint, necessitating more extensive surgical intervention.

If you suspect a meniscus tear, do not hesitate to seek evaluation and care from the dedicated team at City Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine. Your knee’s health and future mobility depend on it.