At AMRITAM ENT & KNEE CARE CLINIC, we specialize in treating knee injuries, including the common yet painful condition of meniscus tears. Under the expertise of Dr. Rushik Gandhi, we offer personalized care and treatment plans to help you recover and regain an active lifestyle.
What is a Meniscus?
The meniscus is a C-shaped piece of cartilage located in the knee joint, acting as a cushion between the femur (thigh bone) and the tibia (shin bone). There are two menisci in each knee—one on the inner side (medial meniscus) and one on the outer side (lateral meniscus). These structures play an important role in stabilizing the knee, distributing weight, and allowing for smooth movement of the joint. They also help to absorb shock during activities like walking, running, and jumping.
A meniscus tear occurs when there is damage to this cartilage. Tears can vary in severity and type, including horizontal, vertical, or complex tears. The severity often depends on the nature of the injury and whether it occurs due to trauma or degeneration.
Causes of Meniscus Tears
Meniscus tears often happen due to:
- Sports Injuries : Activities involving twisting or sudden movements (e.g., soccer, basketball).
- Aging : Over time, the meniscus becomes more prone to tears.
- Accidents/Falls : A sudden twist or impact to the knee.
- Repetitive Stress : Jobs or activities involving frequent squatting or kneeling.
Symptoms of Meniscus Tears
The symptoms of a meniscus tear can vary depending on the severity of the injury. Common signs include:
- Knee Pain : Pain in the knee, especially when twisting or rotating, is a key symptom. The pain may be sharp or dull and can worsen with certain activities like walking, climbing stairs, or squatting.
- Swelling : Swelling in the knee may appear within hours of the injury and could be accompanied by stiffness.
- Limited Range of Motion : A torn meniscus can restrict the knee’s range of motion, making it difficult to fully extend or bend the knee.
- Clicking or Locking Sensation : Some individuals experience a feeling of the knee “”locking”” or a popping or clicking sound during movement.
- Instability : A feeling that the knee is giving way or unstable is also a common symptom.
Diagnosis of Meniscus Tears
To diagnose a meniscus tear, Dr. Rushik Gandhi will typically start by performing a physical examination to assess pain, swelling, and movement. We may also use one or more of the following diagnostic tools:
- MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): This is the most effective imaging technique for diagnosing meniscus tears, as it provides detailed images of the soft tissues in the knee.
- X-rays: While X-rays can’t directly show soft tissue damage, they can help rule out other conditions such as fractures or arthritis.
- Arthroscopy: In some cases, an arthroscopic procedure may be performed, where a small camera is inserted into the knee joint to directly view the meniscus and other structures.
Treatment Options for Meniscus Tears
The treatment approach depends on the type, location, and severity of the tear. Here are some common treatment options:
Non-Surgical Treatment:
- Rest and Ice: Resting the knee and applying ice can help reduce pain and swelling in the early stages of the injury.
- Physical Therapy: Strengthening the muscles around the knee and improving flexibility can help alleviate pressure on the meniscus and prevent further injury.
- Anti-inflammatory Medications: NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) can help control pain and inflammation.
Surgical Treatment:
- Meniscectomy: In cases where the meniscus is severely damaged, part of the meniscus may need to be removed through arthroscopy.
- Meniscus Repair: If the tear is repairable, we may recommend suturing the meniscus back together. This is a more advanced procedure and is typically considered for younger, active individuals.
- Meniscus Transplantation: In rare cases, if a large portion of the meniscus is removed, a meniscus transplant may be necessary.
Recovery
Recovery depends on the severity of the tear and treatment. Non-surgical recovery may take a few weeks, while post-surgery rehabilitation can take several months. Physical therapy is crucial to restore knee function and prevent further damage.
Meniscus tears can affect your knee function and quality of life. At AMRITAM ENT & KNEE CARE CLINIC, Dr. Rushik Gandhi offers expert treatment to help you recover efficiently. If you suspect a meniscus tear, contact us today to get a thorough evaluation and personalized care plan to get back to your activities pain-free.
