A torn meniscus is one of the most common knee injuries — and one of the most misunderstood. Whether it happens during sports, exercise, or everyday movement, a meniscus tear can cause significant pain, swelling, and instability in the knee. The good news? At Ortho Sport & Spine Physicians, we offer a full range of treatment options, from conservative care to minimally invasive surgical repair or replacement — tailored to your unique situation.
What Is the Meniscus?
The meniscus is a C-shaped piece of cartilage that cushions and stabilizes your knee joint. Each knee has two menisci — medial (inside) and lateral (outside). They act as shock absorbers between the thighbone (femur) and shinbone (tibia), helping distribute weight and protect the joint.
A meniscus tear can occur suddenly during a twist or pivot, especially in athletes. But it can also result from wear and tear over time, especially in adults over 40. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), meniscus tears affect over 500,000 people in the U.S. each year, making it one of the top causes of knee pain.
Symptoms of a torn meniscus include:
- Pain and swelling in the knee
- A popping sensation at the time of injury
- Difficulty bending or straightening the knee
- A feeling of the knee “locking” or “catching”
- Instability while walking or standing
If you’re experiencing these symptoms, it’s critical to get an accurate diagnosis. At Ortho Sport & Spine Physicians, we use high-resolution imaging to determine the location, severity, and type of tear — all factors that influence the best course of treatment.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
For less severe tears — especially those on the outer third of the meniscus (the “red zone” with better blood supply) — non-surgical care can be effective. This may include:
- Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation (RICE)
- Physical therapy to strengthen the surrounding muscles and restore function
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Corticosteroid or biologic injections to reduce pain and swelling
Many patients with small or degenerative tears recover within 6 to 8 weeks with conservative care alone.
Surgical Treatment Options
When the tear is large, unstable, or doesn’t respond to non-surgical care, surgery may be the best option. The two most common procedures are:
1. Meniscus Repair
- This procedure stitches the torn edges together so the tissue can heal naturally.
- Best for younger patients and tears in the vascular “red zone.”
- Minimally invasive, arthroscopic approach.
- Recovery time: 3 to 6 months, but outcomes are strong — over 80% of repairs heal successfully with proper rehab.
2. Partial Meniscectomy
- Removes the damaged portion of the meniscus while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible.
- Common for degenerative tears in older patients.
- Faster recovery: 4 to 6 weeks, though it may increase the risk of future joint degeneration.
3. Meniscus Transplant (Replacement)
- For patients with full meniscus loss, especially younger individuals who have ongoing pain or instability.
- A donor meniscus is implanted to restore joint cushioning.
- This procedure is less common but can be life-changing for the right patient.
What’s the Best Option for You?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The best treatment depends on your age, activity level, the type and location of the tear, and your personal recovery goals.
At Ortho Sport & Spine Physicians, our orthopedic specialists take a personalized approach to every case. We prioritize minimally invasive techniques whenever possible and work closely with each patient to build a treatment plan that promotes lasting mobility and long-term knee health.
Don’t Let a Torn Meniscus Slow You Down
If you’ve been diagnosed with a torn meniscus — or suspect you have one — don’t wait to get expert guidance. The sooner you act, the more options you’ll have.
Contact Ortho Sport & Spine Physicians today to schedule a consultation and explore your treatment options with a nationally recognized team of orthopedic specialists.
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