The medial meniscus is a wedge-shaped piece of cartilage that lines the knee joint along the midline of the body. The meniscus acts as a shock absorber between the thighbone and shinbone during weight bearing activities. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, meniscal tears are the most common knee injuries, particularly in athletes. This injury can cause pain, stiffness and swelling, catching or locking of the knee and instability of the knee. Depending on the severity of the tear, treatment can range from conservative treatments to surgical repair.
RICE
The AAOS states that the RICE protocol, or rest, ice, compression and elevation, is the first-line treatment for a medial meniscal tear. Rest involves taking a break from the activity that caused the injury, or taking a break from physical activity that worsens symptoms in the knee. Depending on the severity of the tear, crutches may be used to take pressure off the healing meniscus.
An ice pack or a pack of frozen vegetables should be applied to the affected area for 20 minutes throughout the day. Ice can reduce swelling that is typically associated with a meniscal tear, and ice can provide pain relief because it numbs the joint.
Furthermore, a patient may wear a knee brace, which may add additional stability to the knee joint and remind a patient to be cautious of his knee injury. A compressive bandage can also prevent swelling and blood loss associated with a meniscal tear.
Finally, a patient should elevate the affected knee as often a possible throughout the day. Elevating the knee above the heart will allow gravity to pull excess fluid out of the knee to reduce swelling.
Medications
MayoClinic.com states that a patient with a torn medial meniscus may take over-the-counter pain relievers during the healing course. Specifically, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen or naproxen sodium, may reduce symptoms. These medications reduce chemical signals that are related to pain and inflammation that can occur after a meniscal tear. Although these medications may be effective, patients with heart, liver, stomach or kidney problems should see a doctor before taking these medications.
Surgery
Healing may be difficult if it occurs in the inner two-thirds of the knee, states the AAOS. Thus, surgical repair may be necessary. In this case, a surgeon will likely perform a knee arthroscopy. In this procedure, the surgeon will make small incisions through which surgical tools can be inserted to clean up the damaged meniscus. In most cases, rehabilitation can occur at home. The full risks and benefits of knee surgery should be discussed with the surgeon before proceeding.
