Top Health Tips on Treating a Torn Meniscus

Your knees are one of the most vulnerable parts of your bodies. In the case of strenuous or rigorous activities, knees are more prone to damage and injury than the other parts. Several of the knee tissues are fairly delicate and often are easily impaired. Among the other knee tissue injuries, meniscus tears are perhaps the most frequent. Meniscus is essentially a cartilage that protects and stabilizes the knee joints. However, an untoward twist or a strain can lead to a tear in the meniscus. Meniscus tears are a common phenomenon among athletes and sportsmen. They have been noted to be more recurrent in older individuals.

Some of the early symptoms that indicate the onset of a meniscus tear is swelling and difficulty in bending or straightening of the leg. Sometimes a "locking sensation" in the knees also forebode a torn meniscus. The inflammation potentially causes a lot of pain and irritation. While, it is fairly easy to ignore a meniscus tear for a normal knee injury, prolonged overlooking may only aggravate the pain and worsen the condition. The process of diagnosing a meniscus tear usually involves an MRI scan and an X-ray examination, over and above a detailed evaluation of the wound.
Treating meniscus tears vary according to the extent of the injury. Depending upon the location and the depth of the tear, various cures can be meted out. The healing process, however, depends upon other allied factors such as age, level of physical activities and one's medical history. An external and minor injury is easily mendable. Whereas, graver injuries are resolved through surgical means. The other non-operative means include certain prescribed medicines and specific exercises. Some of the recommended ways of battling a meniscus tear can be enlisted as:

1. Resting the knee by limiting the activities that involve excessive use of the legs or they may potentially strain the leg muscles.

2. Applying ice pack can significantly bring relief to the swelling and the pain in the injured knee. Doctors advice regular use for a duration of at least 15 days.

3. Compressing the knee using an elastic bandage or neoprene sleeve reduces the swelling in the knee.

4. Prescribed medicines in the likes of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can be effective remedies for a meniscus tear. However, one must mandatorily consult a doctor before consuming such medicines.

Have you suffered from a dislocated kneecap and are looking for effective treatment options? A dislocated kneecap is a very common form of injury that takes around six weeks time to heal. It is generally caused by a blow or a change in direction when your leg is planted on the ground. Such injuries are common during sports and dancing. The patella or knee cap, which sits at the front of the knee, glides over a groove in your joint, on straightening or bending your leg. Dislocations make it come out of the groove, leading to the tearing of the supporting tissues.

Symptoms

When your kneecap gets dislocated, it is likely to look out of place, or the angle will seem odd.
Other symptoms include severe knee pain, inability to walk, swelling of the knee, inability to straighten the knee, and a popping sensation in the knee.
Treatment

A dislocated knee cap is not something very serious and it pops back in place on its own in many cases. However, it is recommended for you to get it diagnosed and treated by a health professional.
In case your knee cap goes back into place on its own, you should visit a minor injuries unit or MIU, or an accident and emergency department.
If your kneecap does not go back into place by itself, you need to call an ambulance and avoid trying to put it back in place by yourself.
On the way to the hospital, or while you wait for the ambulance to arrive, you should sit, keeping your leg in a position that is most comfortable for you.
If your kneecap does not correct itself by the time you reach a hospital, it has to be manipulated back in place by a doctor. This process is called reduction.
You will be given medication to ensure that you keep relaxed and free from pain during the procedure.
After the knee cap is put back in place, an X-ray has to be undertaken to check out if your bones are in the right position. Signs of other damages are also analysed.
After the procedure, you will be prescribed painkillers. Your leg will be immobile and put in a removable splint for some time.
For effective recovery, you should undergo physiotherapy for several weeks.
A surgery for a dislocated kneecap may only be required to be undertaken in case of a fracture or associated injuries like a ligament tear. A surgery may also be required in case you had experienced a knee cap dislocation in the past.

A meniscal tear is a typical injury occurring in the knee. The meniscus resembles a C-shaped plate (cartilage) that is rubbery in nature and pads your knee. Every knee contains two menisci, one each at the external and internal edge. The menisci helps in keeping your knee firm by adjusting your weight over the joint. A torn meniscus could keep your knee from working properly.

A meniscal tear is typically brought about by turning or twisting immediately, usually with the knee being twisted while the foot is firmly fixed. Meniscus tears occur in case one lifts heavy objects or during playing or other physical sports. The meniscus gets worn as you grow older. This can damage all the more effortlessly.

Symptoms
The symptoms of meniscal tears include:
1. Swelling
2. Pain in the knee
3. A tendency of knee to 'lock' or get stuck
4. Popping sensation during the injury
5. Difficulty in straightening and bending of the knee

Although there might not be much pain initially, but as the inflammation occurs, severe pain will be felt. A thorough examination would be conducted by the doctor where he would evaluate your injury and details of the x-rays. In severe cases, MRI scans might be required.

Treatment
Details about the location and size of the tear would affect the treatment. In case the tear is small, the outer portion of the meniscus, also known as the 'red zone' is capable of healing itself on account of its healthy power supply. On the other hand, the 'white zone' which consists of the inner two-third part of the meniscus does not have a good supply, thus rendering the tear occurring in this region is incapable of healing by themselves.

Surgery is not required for all meniscal tears. Nonsurgical treatment is sufficient if the knee is stable and non locking. Recovery can be sped up by performing the following actions on the knee:
1. Ice should be applied regularly to limit swelling and it is advised to be continued till the pain is relieved.
2. Elevating: This should be done using a pillow while sitting or lying down.
3. Compressing: A neoprene type sleeve or an elastic bandage should be used to limit the swelling.
4. Resting: Limit exercises to walks if the knee hurts. Crutches should be used to soothe the pain.
5. Medications: Consuming anti-inflammatory medications

Whether you are an athlete or a ballet dancer, you will appreciate the importance of having a stable kneecap. Medically known as the patella, the kneecap is a triangular bone that connects the upper thigh to the lower half of the leg. It sits in a groove in the bottom of the femur (thigh bone). When the leg is bent, it stays within the groove. When the leg is extended, it provides support to the quadriceps muscles.

That being the case, a dislocation of the kneecap is a very common injury. Subluxation is a state where there is partial movement of the kneecap out of its position, thereby making the patient s kneecap unstable. When it completely moves out of its place, it is known as dislocation. Whether you fall on your knees during a sport or have a fall from a bike or get injured during dance or aerobics, it is common to have a dislocated kneecap. Some people are prone to repeated dislocations.

Symptoms:

The initial injury is very painful and there might also be damage to the surrounding structures. Other symptoms include:

Buckling of the knee, where your legs cannot support your body weight

Sliding of the kneecap to a side

Catching of the knee in the groove when trying to move it

Pain in the front of the kneecap with any activity

Painful while sitting

Swelling and/or stiffness of the knee joint

Crackling/creaking sound when trying to move the knee joint

Inability to straighten the leg

Treatment:

Though these sound scary, the good news is that in 90% of the cases, the knee returns to its position spontaneously. However, putting it back into its place is a simple and safe procedure and can be done by almost any seasoned medical practitioner. The first step is to confirm that the kneecap is indeed dislocated. This can be done by a combination of physical exercise and x-ray. If required, MRI can be used, but it is not required in most cases. Initial treatment would include the following steps in sequence:

Immobilizing the knee with splint by keeping the leg in a straightened position.

Calling for medical assistance immediately. They can replace the knee back in its position carefully (reduction). An injured kneecap can cause what is known as foot drop by putting pressure on the peroneal nerve. The toes drag on the ground, making it difficult for you to walk.

Use ice in the affected area for 15 to 20 minutes, and repeat after three to four hours throughout the day to reduce pain and swelling.

Surgical correction may not be required, if there is a damage to the ligament.

Flat femur and/or tissue laxity can cause repeated dislocations, where physiotherapy and strengthening exercises are useful.

Your knees are one of the most vulnerable parts of your bodies. In case of strenuous or vigorous activities, knees are more prone to damage and injury than the other parts. Several of the knee tissues are fairly delicate and often are easily impaired. Among the other knee tissue injuries, meniscus tears are perhaps the most frequent. Meniscus is essentially a cartilage that protects and stabilizes the knee joints. However, an untoward twist or a strain can lead to a tear in the meniscus. Meniscus tears are a common phenomenon among athletes and sportsmen. They have been noted to be more recurrent in older individuals.

Some of the early symptoms that indicate the onset of a meniscus tear are swelling and difficulty in bending or straightening of the leg. Sometimes a "locking sensation" in the knees also forebodes a torn meniscus. The inflammation potentially causes a lot of pain and irritation. While, it is fairly easy to ignore a meniscus tear for a normal knee injury, prolonged overlooking may only aggravate the pain and worsen the condition. The process of diagnosing a meniscus tear usually involves an MRI scan and an X-ray examination, over and above a detailed evaluation of the wound.



Treating meniscus tears vary according to the extent of the injury. Depending upon the location and the depth of the tear, various cures can be tried. The healing process, however, depends upon other allied factors such as age, level of physical activities and one's medical history. An external and minor injury is easily mendable. Whereas, graver injuries are resolved through surgical means. The other non-operative means include certain prescribed medicines and specific exercises. Some of the recommended ways of battling a meniscus tear can be enlisted as:

Resting the knee by limiting the activities that involve excessive use of the legs or they may potentially strain the leg muscles.
Applying ice pack can significantly bring relief to the swelling and the pain in the injured knee. Doctors advice regular use for a duration of at least 15 days.
Compressing the knee using an elastic bandage or neoprene sleeve reduces the swelling in the knee.
Prescribed medicines in the likes of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can be effective remedies for a meniscus tear.

A meniscus tear is a common injury associated with the knee. The meniscus acts a defensive shield, providing a much-needed cushion to the knees, keeping it stable and injury free. Each knee joints contain two menisci located between the tibia and the femur. In this article, we will discuss important details related to meniscus tear to help you understand the injury better.

Facts related to a Meniscus Tear

A meniscus tear can affect all and sundry. However, sports persons (especially those associated with soccer, tennis, football, and basketball) and aged people are more susceptible to the condition.
As per Boston Children's Hospital, of late there has been a steady rise among children suffering from the meniscus tear.
Osteoarthritis may act as a catalyst, accelerating the chances of a meniscus tear.
In most of the times, a meniscus tear occurs when you exert immense pressure on the knee joints such as lifting a heavy object or suddenly standing up from a squatting position. With age, the meniscus is known to suffer from a natural wear and tear resulting in the injury.
As already mentioned, there are two menisci present in each knee joints. The one present inside the knee joint is called Medial Meniscus. Lateral Meniscus is the one present on the outer part of the joint.
Depending on the extent and severity of the injury, a meniscus tear may be
A minor tear: This is a small injury accompanied by mild pain and swelling which may last for not more than 2-3 weeks.
A moderate tear: The injury results in pain that are concentrated mainly around the center or the sides of the knee. The swelling goes from bad to worse over the next 2-3 days, with the person facing discomfort while bending their knee. The knee also stiffens. You may be relieved of the symptoms within a week or two but overusing the knee or twisting it may cause a relapse.
A severe tear: True to its name, your knee is the worst affected in this case. The cartilage tear may be such that the torn pieces get lodged in between the joint spaces causing the knee to lock, pop or even catch. A person experiences unbearable pain and discomfort along with stiffness and swelling (can be immediately following the injury or within 2-3 days). In the case of a severe meniscus tear, a person may not be able to straighten the knee at all (without treatment and medical intervention)
Treatment for a meniscus tear may be surgical or nonsurgical.
The nonsurgical treatment involves the application of cold compress on the affected area. The person needs to take ample rest exerting minimum pressure on the affected knee. Physiotherapy and strengthening exercise can go a long way in improving the condition. To reduce the pain and swelling, the doctor may prescribe painkillers and NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs). Keep the knee elevated. The use of elastic wraps may be helpful.

In extreme cases, surgery may help to treat the injury and the associated symptoms.

Meniscus refers to the soft ligament in your knee joint, which cushions your bones and protects it from wear and tear. It is vital for the fulfilment of regular activities and the health of your bones. Thus, a damage to the meniscus can be extremely painful. Meniscuses are exposed to injuries and shocks in case of rigorous activities and this is a fairly common syndrome faced by athletes and sports persons. It can cause a substantial amount of hurt and generally impairs movement to a large extent. It potentially gets worse as the inflammation sets in and the swelling grows. The risk of a meniscus tear increases with age. The treatment for a torn meniscus depends upon the degree of tear. While minor tears repair on their own, for graver injuries, the following therapies may prove effective.

Symptoms of a torn meniscus
1. You might be able to experience a popping sensation in your knee joint
2. Stiffness and swelling
3. You will experience pain, especially while you are trying to twist your knee
4. You might not be able to straighten your knee completely

The treatment for a torn meniscus depends upon the degree of tear. While minor tears repair on their own, for graver injuries, the following therapies may prove effective:
1. Light exercises: For slightly serious meniscus tears, there are certain knee exercises which are recommended to abort any further damage as well as to repair the wound. Limiting the activities which might exert pressure on the knees, getting adequate rest, using ice packs and wearing neoprene sleeves always aid in recovery.
2. Anti-inflammatory medications: Often, meniscus tears are cured with the help of anti-inflammatory drugs like Ibuprofen. They not only reduce pain but also enable the mending of the injured tissue. However, one needs to be aware of a few side effects which often become natural repercussions of such drugs. Possibility of ulcers and bleeding get increased by leaps and bounds on the intake of such drugs.
3. Surgery: For all other forms of meniscus tears, if healing is not obtained through non-surgical methods, the only option available is that of surgery. Such a situation arises when the pain becomes unbearable and the meniscus tear does not respond favorably to superficial treatments. These surgeries are less complicated than replacement surgeries. They usually do not involve any life threatening hazard and cautious and efficiently conducted surgeries release all pains and handicaps.

Meniscus refers to the soft ligament in your knee joint, which cushions your bones and protects it from wear and tear. It is vital for the fulfilment of regular activities and the health of your bones. Thus, a damage to the meniscus can be extremely painful. Meniscuses are exposed to injuries and shocks in case of rigorous activities and this is a fairly common syndrome faced by athletes and sports persons. It can cause a substantial amount of hurt and generally impairs movement to a large extent. It potentially gets worse as the inflammation sets in and the swelling grows. The risk of a meniscus tear increases with age. The treatment for a torn meniscus depends upon the degree of tear. While minor tears repair on their own, for graver injuries, the following therapies may prove effective.

Symptoms of a torn meniscus

You might be able to experience a popping sensation in your knee joint
Stiffness and swelling
You will experience pain, especially while you are trying to twist your knee
You might not be able to straighten your knee completely
Locking of the joint
The treatment for a torn meniscus depends upon the degree of tear. While minor tears repair on their own, for graver injuries, the following therapies may prove effective:
1. Light exercises: For slightly serious meniscus tears, there are certain knee exercises which are recommended to abort any further damage as well as to repair the wound. Limiting the activities which might exert pressure on the knees, getting adequate rest, using ice packs and wearing neoprene sleeves always aid in recovery.
2. Anti-inflammatory medications: Often, meniscus tears are cured with the help of anti-inflammatory drugs like Ibuprofen. They not only reduce pain but also enable the mending of the injured tissue. However, one needs to be aware of a few side effects which often become natural repercussions of such drugs. Possibility of ulcers and bleeding get increased by leaps and bounds on the intake of such drugs.
3. Surgery: For all other forms of meniscus tears, if healing is not obtained through non-surgical methods, the only option available is that of surgery. Such a situation arises when the pain becomes unbearable and the meniscus tear does not respond favorably to superficial treatments. These surgeries are less complicated than replacement surgeries. They usually do not involve any life threatening hazard and cautious and efficiently conducted surgeries release all pains and handicaps.

Your knees are one of the most vulnerable parts of your bodies. In case of strenuous or rigorous activities, knees are more prone to damage and injury than the other parts. Several of the knee tissues are fairly delicate and often are easily impaired. Among the other knee tissue injuries, meniscus tears are perhaps the most frequent. Meniscus is essentially a cartilage that protects and stabilizes the knee joints. However, an untoward twist or a strain can lead to a tear in the meniscus. Meniscus tears are a common phenomenon among athletes and sportsmen. They have been noted to be more recurrent in older individuals.

Some of the early symptoms that indicate the onset of a meniscus tear is swelling and difficulty in bending or straightening of the leg. Sometimes a "locking sensation" in the knees also forebode a torn meniscus. The inflammation potentially causes a lot of pain and irritation. While, it is fairly easy to ignore a meniscus tear for a normal knee injury, prolonged overlooking may only aggravate the pain and worsen the condition. The process of diagnosing a meniscus tear usually involves an MRI scan and an X-ray examination, over and above a detailed evaluation of the wound.
Treating meniscus tears vary according to the extent of the injury. Depending upon the location and the depth of the tear, various cures can be meted out. The healing process, however, depends upon other allied factors such as age, level of physical activities and one's medical history. An external and minor injury is easily mendable. Whereas, graver injuries are resolved through surgical means. The other non-operative means include certain prescribed medicines and specific exercises.

Some of the recommended ways of battling a meniscus tear can be enlisted as:

1. Resting the knee by limiting the activities that involve excessive use of the legs or they may potentially strain the leg muscles.

2. Applying ice pack can significantly bring relief to the swelling and the pain in the injured knee. Doctors advice regular use for a duration of at least 15 days.

3. Compressing the knee using an elastic bandage or neoprene sleeve reduces the swelling in the knee.

4. Prescribed medicines in the likes of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can be effective remedies for a meniscus tear. However, one must mandatorily consult a doctor before consuming such medicines.

What Are The Treatment Options Available For Torn Meniscus?

Initial treatment

Treatment for a torn meniscus usually begins conservatively, based on the size, type and location of your tear.

Tears associated with arthritis generally improve with time as the treatment of arthritis is carried forward, so surgery usually isn't indicated. Several other tears which aren't connected with locking or a block to knee motion cause lesser pain over time, so they also do not require surgery.

In these conditions, you may be recommended:

Rest: Avoiding activities that increase your knee pain, especially any activity that requires you to twist, rotate or pivot your knee. In case of severe pain, using crutches releases pressure from your knee and promote healing.
Ice: Ice is also very helpful in reducing knee pain and swelling. Using a cold pack or a towel filled with ice cubes for about 15 minutes at a time, can be of great hep.
Medication: Over-the-counter pain relievers also can help ease knee pain.

Therapy
Physical therapy can also be carried out to strengthen the muscles around your knee and in your legs to help stabilize and support the knee joint.

Surgery
The doctor may recommend you surgery if the above mentioned ways do not work. It's sometimes possible to repair a torn meniscus, especially in children and young adults.

In case the tear cannot be repaired, then the meniscus might be surgically trimmed. After surgery, you may be suggested to do some exercises to optimize knee strength and stability.

Have you suffered from a dislocated kneecap and are looking for effective treatment options? A dislocated kneecap is a very common form of injury that takes around six weeks time to heal. It is generally caused by a blow or a change in direction when your leg is planted on the ground. Such injuries are common during sports and dancing. The patella or knee cap, which sits at the front of the knee, glides over a groove in your joint, on straightening or bending your leg. Dislocations make it come out of the groove, leading to the tearing of the supporting tissues.

Symptoms

When your kneecap gets dislocated, it is likely to look out of place, or the angle will seem odd.
Other symptoms include severe knee pain, inability to walk, swelling of the knee, inability to straighten the knee, and a popping sensation in the knee.
Treatment

A dislocated knee cap is not something very serious and it pops back in place on its own in many cases. However, it is recommended for you to get it diagnosed and treated by a health professional.
In case your knee cap goes back into place on its own, you should visit a minor injuries unit or MIU, or an accident and emergency department.
If your kneecap does not go back into place by itself, you need to call an ambulance and avoid trying to put it back in place by yourself.
On the way to the hospital, or while you wait for the ambulance to arrive, you should sit, keeping your leg in a position that is most comfortable for you.
If your kneecap does not correct itself by the time you reach a hospital, it has to be manipulated back in place by a doctor. This process is called reduction.
You will be given medication to ensure that you keep relaxed and free from pain during the procedure.
After the knee cap is put back in place, an X-ray has to be undertaken to check out if your bones are in the right position. Signs of other damages are also analysed.
After the procedure, you will be prescribed painkillers. Your leg will be immobile and put in a removable splint for some time.
For effective recovery, you should undergo physiotherapy for several weeks.
A surgery for a dislocated kneecap may only be required to be undertaken in case of a fracture or associated injuries like a ligament tear. A surgery may also be required in case you had experienced a knee cap dislocation in the past.