The meniscus is a “pad” of cartilage that evens out the distribution of weight on the bones in your knee joints. You have two in each knee that provide cushion between the femur (thigh bone) and the tibia (shin bone). An injury to the knee can result in tearing of one or more meniscus. At Shoulders & Knees, Dr. Steven Struhl offers torn meniscus repair and treatment at our medical facilities in New York City and Westchester.
Traumatic twisting of the knee is one common cause of meniscus tears, which are also seen as the result of degenerative wear. Pain, swelling, tenderness, “popping” noises or a limited range of motion are all potential indicators of a tear, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans can help confirm the diagnosis. The menisci are more durable in youth but still can be damaged with a forceful twist of the knee. Menisci become more fragile with aging, resulting in more frequent tears and damage.
Symptoms and Treatments for Meniscus Injuries
Meniscus tears, on occasion, may not cause pain or impede function and do not require intervention. However, meniscus tears in most cases do not heal and require surgical treatment, which involves removal of the torn fragments or surgical repair. Possible symptoms of meniscus tears and injuries include:
- Pain on one side of the knee
- Swelling or “water” on the knee
- Locking of the knee when trying to straighten the leg
Meniscus tears are not only painful, but they can also lead to other knee joint problems. The torn meniscus creates friction that wears down the articular cartilage in the knee joint and may cause osteoarthritis and ongoing joint pain and dysfunction. Torn meniscus repair, including surgery, can relieve pain and protect the knee joint from further damage.
If you have suffered from a knee injury that has caused damage to a meniscus in one of your knees, there are treatment options to give you relief. Contact us at Shoulders & Knees to schedule a consultation with Dr. Steven Struhl to discuss torn meniscus repair at our clinic in NYC or Westchester.