Did you know meniscus is one of the most common knee injuries? People who play sports and athletes often experience the symptoms associated with meniscus tears. But it doesn’t mean other people cannot develop these symptoms. Anyone can tear or rupture the meniscus. Note that both tear meniscus and torn cartilage refer to the same condition.
Regardless of the age, when you tear the meniscus, consulting a competent and qualified orthopedic surgeon like Dr. Derek L. Hill is essential. The experienced surgeon will help you choose the most effective treatment for your torn meniscus.
If you’re considering visiting the surgeon for your torn meniscus, learn some basics about the condition to understand your treatment options.
Meniscus Tears – A Quick Overview
A meniscus tear refers to a knee injury that anyone can develop. Meniscus typically is a C-shaped rubbery disc present between your shinbone and thighbone. The function of this disc is to absorb shock and protect the knee joint. In fact, the disc plays a vital role in stabilizing and cushioning the joint.
Each knee comprises two menisci. One is present inside the knee, and the other is outside. You may develop a meniscus tear because of any acute injury to your knee. Quick turns or sudden twists during sports, for instance, are the common causes of a meniscus tear.
It is worth mentioning that your menisci is fragile and atrophies as you age. That is why many older adults or individuals above the age of 60 are prone to experience meniscus tears. Commonly, orthopedic surgeons perform arthroscopy to remove or repair a torn or damaged meniscus.
However, there are many nonsurgical treatments to repair the thin disc. It is always better to discuss your condition with your surgeon to choose the best treatment option.
Causes of Meniscus Tear
The common cause of acute meniscus tear is shock or injury to the bone during sports. It may either happen as a non-contact or contact injury.
You may take a cutting or pivoting injury as an example. As said above, older adults are more likely to experience damaged tears. It is because the tissues start to wear out with age.
Worn, aged tissues are susceptible to tear. Even a small twist while sitting down or getting up can cause a jerk or tear in the meniscus.
Common Symptoms of Meniscus Tear
Though there are no prominent symptoms, you may hear or feel a pop when you tear or damage the meniscus. If you‘re young and strong, you can still function with your injured knee or walk with a torn meniscus. Many athletes can play with a tear. After 2 to 4 days, your knee becomes swollen and stiff.
Here are some common symptoms of the condition:
Pain
Swelling and stiffness
Inability to function with your knee or losing its full range of movement
Summing Up
A meniscus tear is a common bone tissue injury anyone can experience due to sharp shock to the knee joint.
Contact Dr. Derek if you have severe pain in the knee joint or feel difficulty walking due to torn meniscus and get the best treatment for the condition.
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