Meniscus tears and repairs: Why is my knee clicking?

Meniscus tears are a common injury, particularly among athletes and older adults. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, meniscus tears are one of the most common knee injuries, and they account for approximately 20% of all knee injuries. It is estimated that up to 1.5 million people in the United States have a meniscus tear each year.

Meniscus tears are more common in people who play high-impact sports or who have occupations that require a lot of kneeling or twisting. They are also more common in older adults, as the meniscus becomes more prone to tearing as it wears down with age.

What is a torn meniscus? 

A torn meniscus is a common injury that occurs when there is damage to the cartilage in the knee joint. The meniscus is a c-shaped piece of cartilage that acts as a shock absorber between the femur and tibia bones in the knee. It helps to distribute weight evenly across the joint. 

There are two menisci in each knee - one on the outer edge of the joint (lateral meniscus) and one on the inner edge (medial meniscus). A tear can occur in either of these menisci and can range from a small, easily repairable tear to a larger, more complex one that may require surgical intervention.

What are the symptoms of a torn meniscus?

Symptoms of a torn meniscus may include pain, swelling, stiffness, and difficulty moving the joint. In some cases, people may feel a "catching" or "locking" sensation in the knee when they try to move it.

Tears can occur due to a variety of reasons, including sports injuries, falls, or simply as a result of wear and tear on the joint. They are more common in people who play high-impact sports or who have occupations that require a lot of kneeling or twisting.

Can athletes play with a torn meniscus? 

It is generally not recommended for athletes to try to play with a torn meniscus. A torn meniscus can cause pain, instability, and difficulty moving the joint, which can affect an athlete's performance and increase the risk of further injury.

If an athlete has a torn meniscus, they should seek medical attention and follow the recommended treatment plan. This may include rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery.

It's important to allow the knee to heal properly and regain its strength before returning to athletic activity. Trying to play with a torn meniscus can worsen the injury and potentially lead to more serious long-term complications.

How do you diagnose and treat a torn meniscus? 

Diagnosis of a torn meniscus usually involves a physical examination and imaging tests such as an MRI or CT scan. Treatment options will depend on the severity of the tear and may include rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery.

Surgery to repair a torn meniscus is usually performed arthroscopically, using small incisions and specialized instruments. The damaged portion of the meniscus may be trimmed or removed, or it may be repaired using sutures.

Recovery from a torn meniscus injury can vary, but most people can return to their normal activities within a few weeks to a few months. Physical therapy is often recommended to help strengthen the muscles around the knee and improve range of motion.

It's important to seek medical attention if you think you may have a torn meniscus. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent further damage to the joint and improve the chances of a full recovery.

What is the difference between an ACL tear and a meniscus tear? 

Both ACL injuries and meniscus injuries can be serious and may require surgery to repair the damage. The recovery process for both types of injuries may involve a combination of rest, physical therapy, and possibly medications to manage pain and swelling.

ACL injuries, which occur in the knee, can cause instability in the joint and may require reconstructive surgery to repair or replace the damaged ligament. Recovery from ACL surgery can take several months and may involve a rigorous physical therapy program to regain strength and range of motion in the knee.

Meniscus injuries can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the knee. Treatment for a meniscus injury may include rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery to repair or remove the damaged portion of the meniscus. Recovery from a meniscus injury depends on the severity of the injury and the individual's response to treatment.

Overall, the recovery process from any type of injury can be challenging, and it is important to follow the recommended treatment plan and work with a healthcare professional to ensure a successful recovery.

Our team at Garden State Pain and Orthopedics can treat any kind of knee injury. For more information about our knee treatments, schedule an appointment by using the book now button. You can also visit our Services page for more information about our pain relief services.