The knee is the largest joint in the body and vulnerable to injury. The meniscus in the knee is comprised of two C-shaped pieces of cartilage that provides stability for the knee and act as a shock absorber between the thighbone and shinbone. Often, when a person says that he has torn cartilage in the knee, he is referring to a torn meniscus.
Types of Tears
There are different types of meniscus tears and diagnosis depends on where the tear occurs in the meniscus. Longitudinal, parrot-beak, flap and mixed/complex are common types of meniscus tears.
Causes
Meniscus tears can result from activities that cause a person to twist and rotate the knee, such as sports that require sudden stopping, pivoting and turning. Kneeling, heavy lifting and squatting can also cause the meniscus to tear. As a person ages, cartilage in the knee weakens and thins, which makes the meniscus more prone to tearing and places older adults at higher risk for developing degenerative meniscus tears resulting from everyday activities.
Symptoms
Many people hear a popping noise when injury to the meniscus occurs; however, many people are able walk on the injured knee despite pain and swelling. The American Academy of Osteopaedic Surgeons states that swelling and stiffness gradually increase two to three days after the injury. A person may complain of feeling like her knee might give way. Other symptoms of a torn meniscus include catching or locking of the knee and decreased range of motion.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the type of tear, the size of the tear and the location of the tear. Some meniscus tears can heal on their own, while other types of meniscus tears require surgical repair. With small tears on the outside of the knee, treatment begins conservatively. Avoiding activities and resting the knee helps promote proper healing. After the injury occurs, MayoClinic.com recommends applying ice to the knee for fifteen minutes every four to six hours the first two days to help reduce swelling and pain. A person may also be instructed to wear a compression bandage and elevate the knee while resting to prevent additional swelling. Medications such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen help reduce pain. MayoClinic.com states that physical therapy exercises can strengthen and stabilize the muscles around the injured knee. When the knee is unstable and symptoms persist, arthroscopic surgery may be recommended. A small incision is made in the knee, and the doctor trims or repairs the meniscus. After surgery, a brace is worn on the knee to keep it stable. After the brace is removed, rehabilitation exercises are usually recommended.
Prognosis
The Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons says meniscus tears are common injuries. A person who is properly diagnosed and gets appropriate treatment and rehabilitation can return to activities and have full pre-injury ability.
