Some knee injuries lead to a torn meniscus. Meniscus mainly provides protection and support to the bones in the knee for enabling its movement so joints do not rub together. If you have had the issue, you need to know certain things to better understand the condition and receive proper meniscus tear treatments:

An Equal Opportunity Injury – a Torn Meniscus:

A torn meniscus is called an equal opportunity injury which means anyone can get it. Still, there are chances that people playing active sports are prone to have it more. It is because sports activity requires rapid change and twisting of the knee which can cause torn meniscus.

Among older, who are 50 years and beyond, the same issue can arise owing to weak muscles and bones. As per the research done on the frequency of torn meniscus among people in Singapore, around 70 to 80 per cent suffering from this issue are males. Also, the frequency of the issue is more in the right knee than in the left one.

Swelling, as well as Pain, are quite common symptoms for Torn Meniscus:

If you develop torn meniscus, there is a chance you will figure it out yourself at home. It starts with slight pain in the knee but till that time you can walk. With time walking becomes difficult with apparent swelling all over the knee.

Then the stiffness of the knee starts, and it seems the knee becoming weak and fragile. If you develop all these symptoms as mentioned, it’s time to consult a doctor.

Doctors’ analysis:

A medical practitioner has various means to check the presence of torn meniscus. The first thing a doctor does is take the McMurray test. It is simple. You will be asked to lie down on your back and the doctor will straighten as well as bend your knee.

If you have a meniscus, your knee will make a sound snapping or thud sound when bend or straighten.

The doctor might also advise an X-ray to find the actual issue with the knee. Sometimes an MRI needs to be performed so the inside of the knee could be examined.

Surgery is not the only option available for Torn Meniscus:

It is pertinent to mention that not all torn meniscus requires surgical intervention. Sometimes the outer layer of the knee heals on its own with proper medication and physiotherapy. If the tear is small in the outer area of the knee, then it can heal with the help of some mild medication.

A doctor can also advise some tests and will ask you to keep your knee in the uplift position. Simple painkillers can do wonders in some cases.

Surgery is mandatory under some circumstances:

At times depending upon the surgery and the torn cartilage, a medical specialist might also advise surgical procedure, using arthroscopic to bring the torn cartilage back after stitching.

This requires the use of a camera, incisions, and other special arrangements. If it doesn’t work, then the doctor might ask for the removal of damaged tissue. The name of the surgery is meniscectomy.

A torn meniscus is not an easy ailment and can prove to have harmful consequences if left untreated. So treat timely and get advice well.