Know Your Options For a Meniscus Tear

Are you suffering from knee swelling and pain? Do you find it hard to move your knees or do you feel like it may suddenly give way? You may be suffering from a common knee problem known as meniscus tear. Although this condition is more common to athletes and sportsperson, especially those who are into playing contact sports, anyone can suffer from meniscus tear as it also comes with age.

What Causes the Tear?

A meniscus tear happens when you make a wrong twist or turn that may accidentally occur when you lift something that is heavy. Playing contact sports such as boxing, foot ball, basketball, or hockey increases the risk of the tear. Another risk factor is old age. As one you grow older with age, your meniscus worn out and can get easily torn.

How Will You Know that You Have a Torn Meniscus?

You will know that you have a torn meniscus when you experience the following symptoms:

• Pain and swelling of the knee joint from mild to severe and may usually last until two to three weeks;
• You can hardly move your knee
• You either hear pops or clicks when you move your knee
• Your knee joint is tender when pressed

It is important you get an accurate diagnosis from your physician when you experience the symptoms mentioned above. Usually, your physician will recommend laboratory tests such as X-rays or MRIs to determine if you are indeed suffering from a torn meniscus. An appropriate treatment will be recommended thereafter.

What Are Your Options for Treatment?

You must become aware that meniscus tear comes in three types: (1) mild, (2) moderate, and (3) severe. The types of the tear will usually tell you the kind of option that is appropriate for your condition.

There are basically two options you can choose from in treating your torn meniscus. These are the following:

• Non-surgical and natural options that are usually the safest and should be considered first prior to the second option which is

• Surgical treatment of the torn meniscus which involves the following: (1) repair of the torn meniscus usually by sewing; (2) removal of the affected part; and (3) removal of the entire meniscus.

Each of your options has their own pros and cons. But it is usually recommended to explore the non-surgical options such as wearing knee brace to aid in healing and repairing of the torn meniscus, resting of the knee, applying ice and compression, elevating the knee, exercising, or undergoing therapeutic sessions.

The advantage of exploring non-surgical options first is greater than the benefits you can get from immediate surgery. With non-surgical options as your first line of remedy, you'll be able to experience relief from the signs and symptoms of meniscus tear as you undergo the process of returning the functions of your normal knee. You'll also be able to avoid the cost and adverse effects of surgical treatment that you'll realize you may not need after all. In the event your meniscus tear does not heal with non-surgical methods, you can always opt for surgery later on.