What causes a meniscus tear?
Your meniscus is one of the most durable pieces of cartilage in your body. After all, it’s designed to absorb shock with each and every step you take. However, one swift move in the wrong direction and you can easily tear your meniscus and suffer from excruciating knee pain.
Some of the most common causes and risk factors of a meniscus tear include:
- Degenerative conditions
- Twisting incorrectly while squatting
- Direct contact during sports, like during a tackle
- Landing incorrectly while walking, running, or jumping
Though meniscus tears are among the most common injuries athletes face, men and women of all ages, especially older adults, can suffer from a meniscus tear.
How do I know if I have a meniscus tear?
When a meniscus tear occurs, it’s common to hear or feel a popping sensation. You might even be able to walk on it afterward and be unaware that an injury occurred. Over the following few days, your signs and symptoms are probably going to progress. A meniscus tear can lead to:
- Pain and inflammation
- Stiffness or swelling
- Limited range of motion
- Difficulty straightening your knee
- Difficulty bearing weight on the knee
It’s also common to feel like your knee is catching or locking, or feeling like it’s going to give way with each step. If any of these issues are apparent, it’s important to have a full evaluation with Dr. Rubinshteyn right away. An untreated meniscus tear can lead to chronic knee instability later on.
What is the treatment for a meniscus tear?
Dr. Rubinshteyn can generally confirm a meniscus tear after evaluating you, performing some in-office testing, and looking at imaging, such as X-rays. Your treatment plan is likely going to include several therapies and solutions, such as:
- Bracing or casting
- Physical therapy
- Compression wrapping
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections
If your meniscus tear is getting worse or doesn’t seem to be improving, Dr. Rubinshteyn may suggest surgery. Meniscus tear surgery is a minimally invasive arthroscopic procedure in which Dr. Rubinshteyn removes or sutures damaged meniscus tissue to promote healing.
Book your meniscus tear evaluation at the office of Igor Rubinshteyn, MD, today. Click on the online scheduler to book, or call the office directly.
