Complications of a Torn Meniscus

The knee is one of the major joints in our body. These joints connect the upper and the lower leg, more specifically the tibia, the femur, and the patella. The latter is the frontal part of the knee and protects the internal tissues while allowing this joint to extend and flex. 

The knee is responsible for many daily activities and movements, including standing, walking, running, and some slightly more complex ones like crouching, jumping, climbing, or swimming. The knee bones rely on the muscles, cartilages, and tendons that tie it together due to all the strength it needs to carry out its functions. Bearing this in mind, it’s no wonder that many of the most common knee issues include inflammations such as tendonitis, arthritis, or injuries like sprains and tears. 

In the middle of the knee joint, where the femur and tibia connect, there is a cartilage tissue whose function is to protect this area. This part of the body is prone to injuries because of all the movements that the knee carries out and the weight it supports. These cartilage tissues are what we call the meniscus. 

One of the most common issues related to the knee is the torn meniscus. This injury can happen due to many reasons, the most common one being bearing weight while bending the knee. In theory, any forceful flexing or contraction could potentially tear the meniscus. Therefore, it tends to be an athlete’s injury; however, anyone is at risk of getting a torn meniscus.

Some of its symptoms include pain, stiffness, popping knees, and also difficulty extending or bending the knee. In many cases, people only experience soreness or other symptoms that might not be too strong at the beginning. For this reason, some people leave this condition untreated ignoring the potential risks of doing so. Not all meniscus tears are the same; at the beginning, most patients might experience mild symptoms that can scale up until the inflammation impedes the knee to move as regularly or to carry out its regular functions. The tear in the meniscus could be treated as an emergency when the knee is locked.

In all cases, we advise visiting an orthopedic doctor to offer a diagnose and determine if the tear can heal by itself or if an intervention might be necessary. To diagnose a torn meniscus, your orthopedic doctor will need to run some tests, which might include X-rays or MRIs to discard any other possible underlying condition or cause or to have a more in-depth insight of the cartilage’s state. 

Unlike popular belief, getting a torn meniscus is not only a risk for athletes furthermore, but the meniscus also weakens with age. The best way to prevent a torn meniscus is by understanding how it happens, therefore avoiding doing sudden turns and twists when the knee is bearing considerable weight. Exercise safely and respect your body limits.

Orthopedic Corner | Leon Mead MD Orthopedic Doctor | 730 Goodlette Road North, Suite 201  Naples Florida 34102 | Phone: (239) 262-1119