What is a Torn Meniscus?
The knee includes two pieces of cartilage known as menisci. Menisci serve as a cushion between the shinbone and thighbone. One or both of the menisci may tear when the knee is twisted or rotated forcefully.
What Causes a Torn Meniscus?
Because a torn meniscus occurs when the knee is twisted or rotated forcefully, any activity that requires pivoting or sudden stops and turns are common causes of a torn meniscus. Causes of a torn meniscus may include, but are not limited to:
- Sports injuries, particularly from football, basketball or tennis
- Kneeling down
- Certain exercises, such as deep squats or heavy lifting
Torn Meniscus Symptoms
Common torn meniscus symptoms include, but are not necessarily limited to:
- Knee pain
- Knee pain that gets worse when twisting or rotating the knee
- A popping feeling at the moment of injury
- Knee swelling
- A feeling of stiffness in the knee
- Struggling to position the knee fully straight
- A sensation that your knee is locked in place when attempting to move the knee
Torn Meniscus Treatments
A treatment plan for a torn meniscus depends on the severity of the torn meniscus. Depending on the severity, there are a variety of treatment options. These torn meniscus treatments range from:
- Rest, Elevation and Medication
- Physical Therapy
- Surgery to repair the torn meniscus
The appropriate treatment plan for a torn meniscus varies for each patient. The knee specialists at SOS have the experience and specialized knowledge that's needed to determine if a patient's knee pain is from a torn meniscus. Our knee specialists are also experienced in providing torn meniscus treatments.