MENISCAL TEARS
Meniscus Tears: Understanding Your Knee’s “Shock Absorbers”
By Dr. A. Mohan Krishna | www.bonesandjointsclinic.com
A torn meniscus is one of the most common knee injuries. Whether you are an athlete or simply misstepped while getting out of a chair, a meniscus tear can cause pain, swelling, and a feeling that your knee is “locking.” 🦵💥
What is a Meniscus? 🧐
Think of your menisci as two rubbery, C-shaped cushions that sit between your thighbone and shinbone. They act as shock absorbers, spreading your weight evenly across the joint and keeping the knee stable. ⛸️
How do they tear?
In Sports: Sudden twisting, pivoting, or being tackled. 🏈⚽
With Age: Over time, the tissue wears out. A simple twist while squatting or gardening can cause a “degenerative” tear. 🌿
Signs You Might Have a Tear ⚠️
You may feel a “pop” when the injury happens. Other common symptoms include:
Pain along the joint line. 😫
Stiffness and Swelling that gets worse over 2-3 days. 🎈
Catching or Locking: Feeling like something is stuck inside the knee. 🔓
Giving Way: The sensation that your knee isn’t strong enough to hold you up. 📉
Treatment Options 🛠️
Dr. Mohan Krishna evaluates your age, activity level, and the specific location of the tear to decide on the best treatment.
1. Non-Surgical Treatment (The R.I.C.E. Method) 🧊
If the tear is small and on the outer edge (where there is good blood supply), it may heal with:
Rest: Staying off the leg. 🛌
Ice: 20 minutes at a time, several times a day. ❄️
Compression: Wearing an elastic bandage. 🩹
Elevation: Keeping the leg higher than your heart. ⬆️
2. Arthroscopic Surgery ✨
If symptoms persist, we use “keyhole” surgery to either:
Meniscus Repair: Stitching the torn pieces back together. (Longer recovery, but saves the cushion). 🧵
Partial Meniscectomy: Trimming away only the damaged, unstable edges. (Faster recovery). ✂️
The Path Back to Activity 🏃♂️
Recovery time depends on the treatment:
Trimming (Meniscectomy): 3 to 6 weeks. ⏱️
Repair (Stitches): 3 to 6 months. ⏳
Rehabilitation is Key: Dr. Mohan Krishna will provide a specialized exercise plan to restore your knee’s strength and flexibility. Moving correctly is the best way to prevent future injuries!
Expert Care at Mohan’s Bones and Joints Clinic
With over 20 years of orthopedic experience, Dr. A. Mohan Krishna specializes in helping patients return to their active lives through both surgical and non-surgical care.
📍 Visit us at: APOLLO HOSPITALS, JUBILLE HILLS
MOHANS BONES & JOINTS CLINIC, MANIKONDA
📞 Book an Appointment: 9398664291
🌐 Website: www.bonesandjointsclinic.com