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Treating a Meniscus Tear: When Is Knee Surgery Your Best Option?
Posted on 07-27-2024 in Common Knee Injuries by Dr. Chris O'Grady
Posted on 07-27-2024 in Common Knee Injuries by Dr. Chris O'Grady
The meniscus is the cartilage that acts as a cushion within your knee, and is comprised of medial and lateral aspects. Meniscal tears are quite common, particularly as patients grow older. While some tears may not require surgical intervention, it’s important to know when surgery is the best option to prevent further knee problems.
What is a Meniscus Tear?
A meniscus tear occurs when the rubbery disc that distributes body weight equally across the joint undergoes stress or sudden impact. If this disc becomes torn, it can prevent normal function and induce pain and inflammation.
What Causes a Meniscus Tear?
In many cases, a meniscus tear is caused by turning or twisting when the knee is flexed and the foot is planted. Lifting something very heavy or engaging in sports can also result in a tear. The meniscus gets worn as you age, and can increase your risk of tearing.
What are the Symptoms?
In most cases, the very first symptom you’ll notice when you tear the meniscus is a sharp pain accompanied by locking and catching of the knee. It may feel as if the knee is getting stuck while walking or moving from a seated position to a standing position. Swelling often occurs, and pain in the back of your knee may also occur.
Types of Meniscus Surgery
While some meniscus tears don’t require treatment, if you do need surgical intervention, there are several types of surgical options available, including:
Surgery Factors
Several factors that can determine whether you’re a good candidate for surgical intervention and the type of surgery you’ll require, including:
Reasons Your Doctor May Recommend Surgery
Why O’Grady Orthopaedics?
At O’Grady Orthopaedics, Dr. Christopher O’Grady offers comprehensive care for patients suffering from meniscal tears. He’s skilled in surgical intervention and will work with you to find the best solution to get you back to your normal lifestyle. If you have the symptoms of a torn meniscus, make your appointment for a consultation today.
Knee osteoarthritis is typically the result of progressive wear and tear on the joint as we age and is one of the leading causes of disability. It can be hard when the pain, swelling, and stiffness from knee osteoarthritis prevent you from enjoying your life. Patients suffering from knee OA often have difficulty performing daily activities such as sleeping, walking, using stairs, bending down, caring for their family, working, and doing their favorite activities.
North Florida Bone & Joint Specialists is excited to announce the availability of the Hurt! smartphone app and the web-based version, accessible on a desktop device. This revolutionary new resource uses human-to-human interaction to connect patients with acute orthopaedic injuries to an expert Hurt! Care Navigator in real-time, 24/7, 365 days a year.
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