A meniscus tear is a common knee injury that can be quite painful and prevent you from going about your daily routine and activities.

The meniscus is a piece of cartilage in your knee that protects your bones. When the meniscus is twisted – usually through contact sports like football or sometimes simply from changing direction suddenly while running – the meniscus can tear and cause the knee joint to lock up. A tear can also occur gradually over time (this type of tear is usually seen in those over the age of 40).

Symptoms of a Torn Meniscus

• Swelling or stiffness of the knee
• Popping sensation
• Pain (especially with movement of the knee)
• Difficulty straightening the knee
• A feeling of instability in the knee

Treatment of Meniscus Tears

The type of treatment needed for a meniscus tear will depend on its location, complexity and nature.

Many degenerative meniscus tears (those that happen gradually over time) are manageable using more conservative methods like R.I.C.E. (rest, ice, compression, elevation), anti-inflammatory medication and physical therapy. However, an acute tear (occurring from a sudden twisting of the meniscus) is more likely to require surgery.



Surgical methods include:

• Meniscus Repair- Arthroscopic repair of a meniscus tear is possible in select cases typically where the tear occurs in the outer portion of the meniscus where there is adequate blood supply. When performed on the correct type of tear and patient by a highly-trained orthopedic surgeon, results from meniscus repair are largely favorable, with positive results in the majority of cases.
  
• Meniscus Removal - If the tear is located in the inner section of the meniscus where inadequate blood flow inhibits healing and the condition is causing pain and inflammation that does not respond to other treatment options, a meniscus removal, or partial meniscectomy, may be considered. While this procedure does tend to deliver favorable results, it can also increase a patient's likelihood of developing arthritis later in life and should be considered carefully.

Meniscus Surgery in Baton Rouge

When it comes to a torn meniscus, there are several potential treatment options. Factors such as the location, tear pattern, and severity of the tear will all need to be considered. As a patient, the best decision you can make is to select an orthopedic physician who is experienced and highly-skilled in the treatment of these types of injuries. The Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge is home to many such physicians. To learn more about our doctors or to request an appointment, please click below.