Meniscus tears are one of the most common knee injuries. An injury affecting the meniscus can occur during high-impact sports or simply continuous wear and tear (degenerative meniscus tears). Individuals who experience a meniscus tear may feel a “pop” sensation and twisting of the knee, followed by pain, discomfort, and swelling.
Additional symptoms of meniscus tears may include:
- Gradual stiffness or feelings that the knee will give out, catch, or lock
- “Locking” or “catching” sensations in the knee
Many individuals can walk or perform daily activities with a torn meniscus if the symptoms are mild. However, if a meniscus injury is causing discomfort that is affecting day-to-day movement, treatment may be recommended.
Treatment
Non-surgical treatments for a meniscus tear following the RICE protocol include rest, ice, compression, and elevation. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may also help reduce pain. However, if conservative treatments fail to alleviate symptoms, surgery for meniscus repair may be recommended. Dr. Goldberg can help assess and determine the best treatment options for your injury, and if you may be a candidate for arthroscopic surgery.
Arthroscopic meniscus surgery, or meniscus tear surgery, is a minimally invasive surgical procedure to remove or repair torn knee cartilage. Surgical treatment is often dependent upon the type of tear; its size, and its location. Arthroscopic meniscus surgery is typically performed in an outpatient setting and patients can return home the same day.
Recovery
Patients can expect to return to full activity four weeks after meniscus surgery. Care after surgery may involve physical therapy, rehabilitation exercises at home, and RICE (rest, ice, compression, and elevation).
Contact Us Today
While arthroscopic knee surgery provides countless benefits, not every condition is treatable with this approach. If you play contact sports or take part in physical activity and are experiencing knee pain, Dr. Goldberg can help. He is one of the most experienced orthopedic surgeons in Southwest Florida and can help assess and determine the best treatment options for you. Schedule an appointment today!