About Torn Meniscus

There are two meniscus within the knee joint: one on the inside and one on the outside of the knee. They are pieces of cartilage that act as shock absorbers. They sit between the femur (thighbone) and the tibia (shinbone) in the knee joint. The meniscus help to stabilize and cushion the knee joint.

Meniscus tears typically happen as the result of sudden trauma, as in the case of a sports injury, or due to degeneration of the cartilage. It takes significant force to tear or damage healthy cartilage, but degenerated cartilage can be damaged relatively easily during normal life activities. 

Diagnosing Meniscus Tears

A meniscus tear that occurs due to trauma is typically noticeable right away. It is often accompanied by a popping sound. Symptoms include pain and swelling, stiffness and reduced range of motion, and a catching or locking sensation. Most people can walk on a torn meniscus, and many athletes continue to play on the injury.

Symptoms are similar for torn meniscus that result from cartilage degeneration. However, due to the fragility of the meniscus, it is not always apparent when the tear occurs.

Treatment Options

Depending on the location and severity of the tear, a torn meniscus may or may not require surgery.

In some cases, rest, ice, elevation, and pain medication are sufficient to manage symptoms and allow the knee to quiet down. However, meniscus tear will not heal on its own.

However, in other cases, where the damage is severe or the tear occurs in a location of the meniscus that lacks bloodflow, and thus cannot fully heal on its own, surgical treatment may be necessary. Your surgeon will evaluate your injury and discuss the specific procedures that may be considered.

Schedule a Consultation With OSMC

OSMC’s surgeons are experienced with treating knee injuries, including meniscus tears. To schedule your consultation with an OSMC surgeon, click here.