NYC Meniscus Tear Doctor

A meniscus tear is a common knee injury to one or both of the menisci, a part of your knee between the tibia and the femur that protects your lower leg against the shock of your body weight. The menisci are composed of cartilage, and when they tear, you may feel a popping or locking sensation in your knee as well as swelling, stiffness, and a decreased range of motion.

When an orthopedist evaluates your knee, they’ll learn more about your health history and potentially request an X-ray and an MRI to confirm that a torn meniscus is the true cause of the symptoms you’re experiencing.

Meniscus tears are common for patients who participate in high-impact athletic activities, as they’re often caused by the forceful twisting or rotation of the knee, which can happen when you quickly pivot without moving your foot. Additionally, age and obesity increase your risk of tearing your menisci, as these factors increase wear and tear on your knees over time.

The treatment approach your doctor may recommend for your torn meniscus depends on your age, medical history, the severity of the injury, how you respond to various methods of treatment, and the expected time it will take for your injury to heal.

Non-surgical treatment typically involves the use of anti-inflammatory medication, icing the injured area, and physical therapy. Additionally, knee arthroscopy, a non-invasive procedure that involves repairing the torn area of the meniscus and holding it together with sutures until it heals, is often used to successfully treat this type of injury.