Meniscus Tear Specialist

What is a meniscus tear?  

A meniscus tear is an injury to the cartilage that separates your thigh bone and shinbone in your knee. Your knee has two meniscus, known as menisci. Your menisci act as shock absorbers and provide stability in your knee.

You can develop a meniscus tear from an acute injury or a degenerative condition. Dr. Dewanjee categorizes meniscus tears based on their appearance and the location of the tear.

Meniscus tears may be described as a flap, bucket handle, or radial tear.

What are the symptoms of a meniscus tear?

Symptoms of a meniscus tear may not be immediate. However, you may hear a pop when you injure the cartilage. Common symptoms include:

• Knee pain
• Knee stiffness and swelling
• Knee locking
• Limited range of motion
• Feeling as though your knee is giving way

Your meniscus tear symptoms may start out mild and gradually worsen over the next two to three days. If you suspect you have a meniscus tear, schedule an appointment at FXRX Inc. 

Getting an early diagnosis and treatment for any knee injury may prevent further damage that prolongs your recovery.

How is a meniscus tear diagnosed?

When you visit FXRX Inc. with concerns about knee pain or a knee injury, Dr. Dewanjee conducts a comprehensive clinical exam to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms.

Dr. Dewanjee examines your knee, assessing strength, flexibility, and range of motion, looking for areas of weakness and tenderness that might indicate the underlying cause of your knee condition.

If he suspects you have a meniscus tear, Dr. Dewanjee performs the McMurray test: rotating, straightening, and bending your knee. During this test, you may experience pain and hear a clicking sound that helps confirm a meniscus tear diagnosis. 

Dr. Dewanjee also performs an X-ray or an MRI.

How is a meniscus tear treated?

Dr. Dewanjee customizes treatment for your meniscus tear based on the type and location of your tear, symptoms, usual activities, and medical history. Initially, Dr. Dewanjee may recommend medical treatment for your meniscus tear, which might include:

• Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE)
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Activity modification
• Regenerative medicine with platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy or stem cells

If your symptoms fail to improve with non-surgical intervention, Dr. Dewanjee may recommend knee arthroscopy to repair your meniscus tear. 

During surgery, Dr. Dewanjee may perform various procedures based on your specific injury, such as a meniscectomy, meniscus repair, or meniscus transplant surgery. As a skilled orthopedic surgeon, he customizes your surgical plan to best meet your needs.

To schedule a consultation, call FXRX Inc. or book an appointment online today.