A meniscus injury is a common injury that affects the cartilage between the thigh bone and shin bone in the knee. The meniscus acts as a shock absorber, and helps to distribute weight evenly across the knee joint.

A meniscus injury can cause pain, swelling, and a limited range of motion, making it difficult to walk, run, or engage in other activities. Depending on the severity of the injury, treatment options may range from rest and physical therapy to surgical intervention.

Symptoms of Meniscus Injury

The symptoms of a meniscus injury may vary depending on the severity of the injury. Some common symptoms include:.

Pain or tenderness in the knee
Swelling
A popping or clicking sound when the knee is moved
A limited range of motion
Instability or a feeling of “giving way” in the knee

Diagnosis of Meniscus Injury

If you suspect you have injured your meniscus, it is important to see a medical professional for an accurate diagnosis. Your doctor will examine your knee, and may order imaging tests such as an X-ray, MRI, or CT scan.

These tests allow your doctor to view the inside of your knee and determine the extent of the damage.

Treatment Options for Meniscus Injury

The treatment options for a meniscus injury will depend on the severity of the injury and your individual circumstances. Some common treatment options include:.

Rest and Physical Therapy

If your meniscus injury is mild or moderate, your doctor may recommend rest and physical therapy. This may include avoiding activities that aggravate your knee, and engaging in exercises to strengthen the muscles around your knee.

Physical therapy can help to improve range of motion and reduce pain and swelling.

Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen and naproxen, can help to reduce pain and inflammation associated with a meniscus injury.

These medications are available over-the-counter, but it is important to talk to your doctor before taking them, as they can have side effects and interactions with other medications.

Corticosteroid Injections

In some cases, your doctor may recommend a corticosteroid injection to reduce inflammation and pain. This involves injecting a steroid medication directly into your knee joint.

While this treatment can be effective in relieving pain, it is not a long-term solution and may have side effects.

Surgical Intervention

If your meniscus injury is severe, or if other treatments have been unsuccessful, your doctor may recommend surgery. There are two main types of surgical procedures for meniscus injuries: meniscus repair and meniscectomy.

Meniscus Repair

Meniscus repair is a surgical procedure that aims to preserve as much of the meniscus as possible. During this procedure, the torn portion of the meniscus is reattached to the surrounding tissue using sutures or other techniques.

This procedure is more invasive than meniscectomy, but may result in better long-term outcomes and less risk of arthritis.

Meniscectomy

Meniscectomy involves removing the torn portion of the meniscus. This is a less invasive procedure than meniscus repair, but can result in an increased risk of arthritis in the affected knee.

In some cases, a partial meniscectomy may be performed, where only a portion of the meniscus is removed.

Recovery from Meniscus Surgery

Recovery from meniscus surgery will depend on the individual and the type of surgery performed. Following surgery, you may need to use crutches and wear a knee brace to support your knee and aid in healing.

Your doctor will provide you with specific instructions for post-surgical care, including physical therapy and rehabilitation exercises. It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully to ensure the best possible outcome.

Conclusion

A meniscus injury can be a painful and limiting condition, but there are a variety of treatment options available.

If you suspect you have injured your meniscus, it is important to consult with a medical professional for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan. With proper treatment and care, many people are able to fully recover from a meniscus injury and return to their normal activities.