Knee pain is a common problem, but persistent pain should not always be dismissed as simple wear and tear. One possible cause is a meniscus tearāan injury to the cartilage that acts as a cushion and helps provide stability inside the knee joint. Meniscus tears can occur after a sudden twisting movement, sports injury, or direct impact. They can also develop gradually due to age-related changes in the meniscus.
What Are the Warning Signs?
A meniscus tear may cause knee pain, swelling, stiffness, clicking, catching, or locking. Some people may also feel that the knee is giving way or have difficulty moving it through its full range. Because these symptoms can resemble other knee conditions, proper clinical evaluation is important.
Why Early Diagnosis Matters
Ignoring ongoing knee symptoms may allow an underlying problem to persist. The meniscus plays an important role in cushioning and distributing loads across the knee. When treatment is needed, preserving as much healthy meniscal tissue as possible is an important goal because meniscal damage can contribute to joint degeneration and osteoarthritis.
Diagnosis generally begins with a detailed history and physical examination. Depending on the symptoms and injury, your orthopedic specialist may recommend imaging such as an MRI, which is highly accurate for detecting acute meniscal tears.
Treatment Depends on the Tear
Not every meniscus tear requires surgery. Depending on the type, location, symptoms, age, activity level, and overall condition of the knee, treatment may include activity modification, medication, physiotherapy, rehabilitation, or surgery. When surgery is appropriate, meniscus repair may be considered for tears with healing potential.
š„ Watch the video by Dr. Shakti Swaroop to learn more about meniscus tears, their importance, and why timely evaluation matters:
If you have persistent knee pain, swelling, locking, or difficulty with movement, consult an orthopedic specialist for an appropriate evaluation.
Dr. Shakti Swaroop
Senior Foot & Ankle & Orthopaedic Specialist
š Contact: +91 8458034234
š Website: https://footankleortho.com/