Meniscus tears are one of the most prevalent knee injuries. However, they frequently occur in conjunction with other ailments such as anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears. Often, persons access pain relief and successful recovery with conservative treatments, but if these procedures fail, orthopedic surgeon Ronald Hess, MS, DO, and his staff at Beacon Orthopedics & Sports Medicine have a solution for you. At their three office locations in West Chester and Oxford, Ohio, the specialists use high-resolution arthroscopy technology to repair meniscus tears in athletes. For expert care for your meniscus tear in West Chester, call the office near you or schedule a consultation online right away.
What Exactly is a Meniscus?
The meniscus is a piece of cartilage in your knee that is prone to injury. Each knee has two menisci, which act as stress cushions between the shin and thigh bones.
The menisci are made up of rubbery fibrocartilage, making them resistant to the daily stresses of standing, walking, and running. Nevertheless, they can tear due to certain rapid movements, or they can get weaker and worn out over time.
What is a Meniscus Tear?
A meniscus tear is a trauma that occurs when one of the menisci in the knee is torn. Acute meniscus tears happen rapidly and typically occur while participating in sport or engaging in some form of physical activity.
As you age, you become susceptible to degenerative meniscus tears. These might happen suddenly and easily, such as when you get out of the vehicle or bend down to pick up anything you have dropped.
How to Diagnose a Torn Meniscus?
If you tear your meniscus, you will likely notice something is wrong right away. Although most people feel a noticeable pop, you may still be capable of walking.
The symptoms of a meniscus tear worsen for several days after it has been torn. Among your signs and symptoms may include:
- Pain
- Stiffness
- Inflammation
- Mobility issues
- Instability
- Knee locking
To assess your injury and determine whether or not you require surgery at Beacon Orthopedics & Sports Medicine, Dr. Hess conducts a thorough physical examination. Utilizing imaging procedures such as magnetic resonance imaging, he can visualize and examine the tear.
What Are Your Meniscus Tear Care Options?
At first, Dr. Hess addresses meniscus tears with conservative alternatives, with surgery being used only if other treatments are inadequate. Among your first-line treatments include:
- Rest, heat, and ice therapy
- Physical therapy
- Steroid injections
Nonetheless, if you require meniscus repair surgery, Beacon Orthopedics & Sports Medicine could assist. Dr. Hess generally prefers arthroscopic surgery for meniscus tear repairs since it requires smaller cuts, reducing the risk of bleeding and scarring.
In arthroscopic meniscus repair, Dr. Hess makes small cuts known as portals in the knee and inserts a long, tiny camera with a bulb on the end through one of them to visualize the interior. He uses tiny surgical equipment to trim the injured meniscus tissue and stitches the rip through the other cuts.
A meniscus tear repair procedure with rehabilitation at Beacon Orthopedics & Sports Medicine can restore your mobility and have you engage in sports again. To schedule your meniscus tear assessment and care consultation, contact the office over the phone or book online.