Is Your Meniscus Torn? How to Tell & What to Do Next

November 6, 2023

Have you been here before? Getting a sharp pain in your knee after a sudden twist of the knee during a pickup basketball game, a misstep on a hiking trail, or even just a simple, awkward movement while getting out of bed. In a split second, you’re left wondering, “Is my meniscus torn?” If you’ve ever found yourself in this situation, you’re not alone. Meniscus tears are a common knee injury, affecting approximately more than a million people in the United States every year, and understanding how to identify one and what to do next can make a world of difference to your recovery.

Let’s start with the basics. The meniscus is a wedge-shaped piece of cartilage in your knee that acts as a cushion and stabilizer. You have two menisci in each knee, one on the inside (medial) and one on the outside (lateral). These little shock absorbers are essential for smooth knee joint function. However, they are susceptible to injury, especially in physically active individuals.

Signs of a Torn Meniscus

Identifying a torn meniscus can be tricky because the symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the tear and its location. Here are some common signs that may indicate you have a torn meniscus:

Pain: This is usually the first and most noticeable symptom. You may experience it along the joint line of your knee, particularly when bending or twisting it.
Swelling: Another common bodily response to knee injuries is swelling. If you notice your knee is swollen and it doesn’t seem to improve after a day or two of rest, it could be a sign of a meniscus tear.
Limited range of motion: A torn meniscus can limit your ability to fully straighten or bend your knee. The knee may feel like it’s getting “stuck” or locking in place.
Clicking or popping sensation: Some people report hearing or feeling a clicking or popping sensation when they move their knee. This can be a sign of a tear as well.
Instability: Your knee might feel unstable or give way when you put weight on it. This can happen if the torn meniscus interferes with the stability of the joint.

What to Do Next

If you suspect you have a torn meniscus, it’s essential to take the right steps to ensure a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Here’s what you should do next:

Rest and ice: Give your knee some rest and apply ice to reduce swelling. Over-the-counter pain relievers can also help with pain and inflammation.
Consult a healthcare professional: Schedule an appointment with a healthcare professional, like our team at Beacon, to get an evaluation that could include imaging tests to confirm a diagnosis.
Physical therapy: Depending on the severity of your meniscus tear, your orthopedic specialist might recommend physical therapy. Physical therapists can help you regain strength and range of motion in your knee through targeted exercises.
Consider surgery: In some cases, surgery is necessary, especially if the tear is large or causing persistent symptoms. Arthroscopic surgery is a minimally invasive procedure commonly used to repair or trim damaged meniscus tissue.
Rehabilitation: After surgery or as part of your non-surgical treatment plan, you’ll likely undergo rehabilitation. This involves a structured program of exercises and activities to help regain full knee functionality.

Preventing Meniscus Tears

While accidents happen, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of meniscus tears. Strengthening the muscles around your knee, maintaining a healthy body weight, and using proper technique during physical activities can all help protect knees from injury.

When Unavoidable Happens, Call in the Pros

If you suspect you have a torn meniscus, don’t ignore it. Seeking early diagnosis and appropriate treatment is crucial for a smooth recovery. Remember that every case is unique, so what works for one person may not be the best option for another. Trust your knee specialist’s guidance, and with time, patience, and dedication to your recovery, you can get back to the activities you love without the worry of a torn meniscus holding you back.

If you’re suffering from knee pain, schedule an appointment online with any of our knee specialists anytime.