Torn Miniscus Pain

A meniscus is a piece of cartilage inside the knee joint that absorbs shock and provides cushioning between the knee bones. A tear or damage to the meniscus will cause irritation when flexing or extending the knee. Treatments are available for pain and to repair the injury.

Causes

• The meniscus is comprised of two crescent-shaped cartilages that curve around the inside and back of the knee. The meniscus can tear from an activity that causes you to twist or rotate the knee aggressively or sudden turns and stops. Lifting heavy objects by putting pressure on knee joints or deep kneeling or squatting can contribute to a torn meniscus.

Symptoms

• Symptoms of torn meniscus pain include intense pain at time of injury and a pop sensation in the knee. Swelling and stiffness may come a few hours later with pain occurring when rotating or twisting the knee. Pain may continue when walking or even when bearing weight on the knee joint. The knee may feel tight and weak, feeling like it may give way if you put weight on it.

Diagnosis

• Your doctor will examine your knee to look for swelling and ask questions about your pain. X-rays will reveal any bone damage and an MRI will reveal tissue and cartilage damage.

Treatment

• Torn meniscus from injury will be treated with applications of ice, rest and elevation of the knee joint. Over-the-counter medications such as Tylenol and Advil may be recommended for knee pain. Physical therapy exercises will help to rehabilitate the knee and strengthen muscles surrounding the meniscus cartilage. Shoe inserts can help distribute weight more evenly taking undue pressure off the knee. Surgery may be an option when pain does not decrease from conservative efforts.

  Arthropscopic surgery involves an instrument called an arthroscope being inserted into a tiny incision near the knee. The instrument has a camera and light attached which projects images onto a screen. Surgical instruments are inserted through other tiny incisions to repair the torn meniscus. Meniscus tears caused by arthritis may need a full knee replacement.

Prevention/Solution

• Prevent torn meniscus pain by including stretching and warming up exercises before strenuous exercises. Avoid twisting or rotating the knees and wear protective knee pads in certain sports. Wear proper fitting footwear and rest knee joints after sports or exercise routines. Your doctor can provide you with exercises to strengthen knee muscles.