The knee joint includes several important components that allow movement involved in getting up, walking, pivoting and many more movements that your knee helps you make throughout the day. Often taken for granted, these movements can become a challenge if the meniscus is torn.
The menisci are two small discs of cartilage that lie between the thigh bone and the shin bone to even out the pressure in the knee while standing or walking.
A meniscus tear can be caused by an injury or day-to-day wear and tear. Meniscus tears near the outer edge have a better chance of healing.
What are the common symptoms of torn meniscus?
The most common symptoms of a meniscus tear include:
- Pain over the inner half of the knee that worsens with pivoting or deep squatting
- Swelling on the upper and outer part of the knee
- Motion, such as deep knee bending an pivoting is often limited
- A feeling of instability or the knee giving out
- Locking, catching or popping of the knee
How would I know if I have a torn meniscus?
Simply having knee pain does not indicate a torn meniscus. If some of the symptoms listed above have continued for more than a week, it may be a sign of a torn meniscus. An orthopedic surgeon is the best person to evaluate the pain and other symptoms.
To learn more or to consult the best orthopedic surgeon in Phoenix, AZ, Dr. Sumit Dewanjee, call FXRX Inc. at 480-449-3979. As a leading orthopedic surgeon who is an expert in arthritis and fracture treatment in Phoenix, Dr. Dewanjee has performed hundreds of successful knee and shoulder arthroscopies and other treatments.
