The meniscus is a piece of cartilage that acts as cushioning between the femur (thighbone) and tibia (shinbone) in the knee, reducing grinding and stress between these two bones. There are two menisci in each knee joint located on the inner and outer side of the knee, and each susceptible to damage during activities that put pressure on, or rotate, the knee joint. If you are experiencing discomfort in your knee after a strain or high-impact activity, you may have a meniscus tear.
Torn Meniscus Symptoms
A torn meniscus can cause inflammation, pain, and limited knee mobility. You may also experience a locking, or popping sensation, caused by a loose piece of tissue that is blocking the knee joint. Another common symptom of a torn meniscus is a feeling of weakness in the knee, or a sensation of your knee giving way. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, your doctor can perform a physical exam and imaging tests to determine if you have a meniscus tear.
Treating A Meniscus Tear
A variety of surgical methods may be utilized to treat a torn meniscus. In some cases a portion of the torn meniscus is removed, while in others, the torn edges of the meniscus are brought together by sutures or suture anchors that dissolve in the body. Dr. Jacob Rozbruch will always preserve as much of the healthy meniscus cartilage as possible, and the meniscus will only be completely removed in the most severe cases where it is damaged beyond repair.
Protecting The Knee After Torn Meniscus Surgery
Following torn meniscus surgery, you should see a physical therapist who will demonstrate exercises you can safely perform to gain mobility, strength, and control of your leg muscles, and reduce the possibility of developing a knee injury in the future. Dr. Rozbruch may also suggest certain high-impact activities to avoid immediately following surgery, such as squatting and running, as you work to regain strength and mobility in your leg.
Dr. Jacob Rozbruch and our staff welcome any questions you may have regarding torn meniscus surgery. Contact our office at 212-744-9857, or request an appointment online today for your personal consultation!
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