What is a torn meniscus?

A torn meniscus is a knee injury that occurs due to forcefully rotating or twisting your knee. The meniscus is C-shaped cartilage that cushions the bones in your knees. After being damaged, a torn meniscus can cause swelling and pain. It alters how you can extend your knee, move it around, and stay mobile. 

What are the symptoms of a torn meniscus?

The symptoms you may experience after tearing a meniscus include:

• Popping sound
• Stiffness
• Swelling
• Discomfort
• Pain when rotating or twisting your knee
• Problems fully straightening your knee
• Knee locking 
• Your knee giving way

It might take up to 24 hours before the swelling and pain become significant, particularly if you have a smaller meniscus tear.

What are the risk factors for a torn meniscus?

Anyone can develop a torn meniscus, but factors that increase your risk of experiencing it include:

• Forcefully rotating or twisting your knee
• Pivoting
• Jumping
• Heavy lifting
• Cutting
• Playing high-intensity or contact sports
• Wear-and-tear
• Obesity
• Improper training 
• Aging

Degenerative changes in your knee due to aging may contribute to a meniscus tear, even without any known trauma. 

Complications might include mobility challenges, persistent pain, and a higher risk of developing osteoarthritis in the injured knee. 

How is a torn meniscus diagnosed?

To determine if you have a torn meniscus or another knee injury, a Pain Medicine Group specialist asks about your medical history, symptoms, lifestyle habits, and more. They complete a physical exam to look for signs of injury and may ask you to move your knee into various positions. 

You might need X-rays, an MRI, other imaging procedures, or arthroscopy to get an in-depth view of the inside of your knee. 

How is a torn meniscus treated?

To treat a torn meniscus, your Pain Medicine Group provider might suggest one or more of the following:

• Resting your knee
• Ice packs
• Medications
• Altering physical activity
• Bracing
• Physical therapy
• Injections
• Surgery

Often a last resort, surgery is sometimes the best way to fully restore the structure of your knee joint. However, your Pain Medicine Group provider often recommends conservative treatments first.

To determine if you have a torn meniscus, schedule an evaluation at Pain Medicine Group by phone or book one online today.