A Meniscus Tear Is Not a Minuscule Injury
The knees are arguably one of the most important joints in the body, and injuries to these areas may significantly impact mobility and quality of life. The common injury to the knees is the meniscus tear, which should absolutely not be dismissed as a minuscule injury.
Keeping Your Knees Steady
The meniscus acts as cushion to the knees because of its rubbery consistency. Each of your knees has two menisci – one at the inner edge and the other at the outer edge – that keep these joints steady.
Indeed, a meniscus tear can prevent the normal functioning of the affected knee. Getting medical attention from Healthpointe doctors and surgeons for a meniscus tear is then a must for good mobility.
However, injuries to the meniscus caused by sudden twisting or turning of the foot while the knee is bent are not the only cause for concern where the joint is concerned. As the body ages, the meniscus also degenerates – and it becomes more susceptible to tears.
Knowing the Types
As with most severe orthopedics injuries, there are several types of meniscus tear with each type having its own set of specific symptoms.
- Minor tears are the least worrisome as symptoms include slight pain and swelling, which will usually resolve with appropriate medical attention and home care within 2-3 weeks.
- Moderate tears require medical treatment since the painful symptoms may come and go for years without it. The meniscus tear usually causes pain either at the side or center of the affected knee coupled with swelling that slowly worsens within 2-3 days. The affected knee feels stiff and with limited bending movements although walking is still possible, albeit painful.
- Severe tears involve the pieces of the torn meniscus moving into the joint space, thus, making the affected knee catch, lock or pop. The affected knee will likely also feel wobbly, stiff and painful especially when trying to straighten it.
Keep in mind that our Healthpointe doctors and surgeons will recommend personalized treatment plans depending on the type and severity of your meniscus tear. The plan may include the RICE protocol, physical therapy and surgery.
Visit one of our clinics, such as in Corona when your injury happens in town or when you are in nearby areas like Norco, Home Gardens, Mira Loma, and Pedley.
Healthpointe is a leading multidisciplinary healthcare organization offering a full range of medical services in practice locations throughout Southern California (Los Angeles County, Orange County, San Bernardino County, and Riverside County). Healthpointe has locations situated in over 10 cities in Southern California including Corona, which is conveniently located by Norco, Home Gardens, Mira Loma, and Pedley. As a highly regarded musculoskeletal group, we have a personal investment in the highest level of service, and we are proud of our record of excellence over the last four decades with private patients, injured workers, urgent care, personal injuries, and professional and non-professional athletes. Leading our organization is a dynamic team of healthcare professionals who continually strive to be at the forefront of medical innovation and healthcare service delivery. For more information, a complete list of services, and Healthpointe locations, visit Healthpointe.net.