Meniscus Tears
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South Bay Orthopedic and Sports Medicine
Orthopedic Surgeons & Internists located in San Jose, CA
While some meniscus tears are minor and can get better with time, others require medical intervention and, in some cases, surgery. At South Bay Orthopedic and Sports Medicine in San Jose, California, Dr. Samir Sharma and Dr. Kavita Sharma offer a number of treatments for meniscus tears, including medications and arthroscopic surgery. Call today or book an appointment online.
Meniscus Tears Q & A
What is a meniscus tear?
A meniscus tear is a common knee injury. Each knee has two menisci — pieces of cartilage that act as a cushion to prevent friction between your thighbone and shinbone.
A torn meniscus causes pain, swelling, stiffness, popping sounds, and inflammation. Many people with a torn meniscus have trouble fully extending their knee and feel as though their knee is locked in place.
What causes a meniscus tear?
Any high-impact physical activity, a fall, or trauma can result in a meniscus tear. A torn meniscus is usually the result of a forceful twist or rotation of the knee. Heavy lifting can also result in a torn meniscus.
Older adults experience degenerative changes in the knee that can play a part in a meniscus tear, even without trauma. Taking care of your muscles, cartilage, tendons, and your body as a whole is important to reduce your risk and improve strength.
Certain complications can arise following a meniscus tear, such as an increased risk of developing osteoarthritis in the injured knee.
How is a meniscus tear treated?
Your South Bay physician diagnoses a meniscus tear with a thorough physical exam and imaging tests, such as X-rays or an MRI. The treatments for a meniscus tear depend on the severity of the condition and the individual.
Your South Bay surgeon typically examines and repairs a torn meniscus arthroscopically. Your surgeon makes a small incision, where they insert the arthroscope, a long slender instrument that contains a light and small camera. This camera transmits images of the inside of your knee to a high-definition monitor for your surgeon to view.
If a repair is necessary, your South Bay surgeon inserts other surgical tools through additional small incisions in your knee or, in some cases, through the arthroscope.
Other forms of treatment for a meniscus tear include physical therapy, rest, ice, and medications to relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
For the highest caliber of care, visit the South Bay Orthopedic team. Call the office or book an appointment online.