Meniscal Tear
Description
The knee’s shock absorber, known as the meniscus, helps lubricate the knee joint and prevent the knee from hyperextending. A wrong twist of the knee or an accidental overflexing can tear this important joint cartilage, however. Read on to learn more.
Causes & Triggers
- Age-related degeneration
- Falls
- Forceful bending
- Sports injuries
- Sudden twisting
- Trauma
Signs & Symptoms
- Catching
- Difficulty or inability to squat
- Limited range of motion
- Locking
- Pain
- Popping
- Swelling
- Tenderness
Tips & Treatment
- Injury can occur suddenly.
- Symptoms may not be present, especially in age-related degeneration.
- Diagnostic testing may include X-rays and/or MRI.
- Non-surgical treatment may include rest, icing affected area, anti-inflammatory medications and/or corticosteroid injections.
