The knee joint is very important in helping us move. If a problem occurs with the knee, it can be very painful and make mobility difficult or impossible. One of the most common knee injuries is a torn meniscus. This injury can happen to anyone, but often happens to athletes and older people. The meniscus is a C-shaped piece of cartilage in the knee. There are two menisci in each knee joint, the medial meniscus on the inner side and the lateral meniscus on the outer side the knee joint. These provides stability and protection to the knee, but if they're torn, problems can occur. Meniscal tears are often the result of trauma or injury to the knee, but they can also occur due to degenerative conditions like osteoarthritis. Most of the meniscus does not receive a blood supply, so they may grow worse over time. Symptoms vary depending on how and where the meniscus is torn, but symptoms can include pain, instability or feeling the knee "giving," stiffness, swelling, and an impaired range of motion. Sliding, popping, or locking may occur if the tear is left untreated because loose fragments from the meniscus tear will drift into the joint. If you are presenting these symptoms, your doctor may diagnose meniscal tears. Treatment options for meniscus tears vary depending on the severity and location of the injury. Conservative methods like rest, ice, compression, and physical therapy are always attempted first. Anti-inflammatory medication may be prescribed, as well as the use of a brace or cast to immobilize the knee during the healing process. If the tear is very severe, surgery may be required. All information provided on this website is for information purposes only. Every patient's case is unique and each patient should follow his or her doctor's specific instructions. Please discuss nutrition, medication and treatment options with your doctor to make sure you are getting the proper care for your particular situation. If you are seeking this information in an emergency situation, please call 911 and seek emergency help. All materials copyright © 2020 Smith & Nephew, All Rights Reserved.Meniscus tears
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Need an orthopedic doctor? I would highly recommend Dr. Brook Adams. I couldn’t have chosen a more caring orthopedic doctor. When I decided to see Dr. Adams for a possible total knee replacement, he made me feel at ease when we discussed my options, and I decided to proceed with the total knee replacement. I knew I was in good hands after my first visit, his confidence and expertise was evident. I wasn’t just a another patient to him, he truly…
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Dr. Adams discussed different options with me, I chose to have my knee scoped. I couldn’t be more pleased with my results. Two weeks postoperative my knee feels great and no more pain I experienced before surgery. Dr. Adams, office staff and surgical staff were professional and friendly and made for a successful…
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Overall great talented man. I had ACL reconstion surgery with him at the beginning of this year and I’m an active sports player he did such a great job. I’m back playing with no problems, my knee feels great. I recommend…
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I broke my wrist & am a senior citizen. He was very compassionate, asking questions about my lifestyle & giving me a choice in my treatment. I live a very active lifestyle & work with my hands a lot. After listening to the type of things I do with my hands, he said that surgery would make the healing…
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