A meniscus tear is a common knee injury, especially among athletes who play contact sports. Treatment for a meniscus tear varies and may range from conservative medical care to surgical intervention. Sumit Dewanjee, MD, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon at FXRX Inc., specializes in diagnosing and treating meniscus tears. Call the office in Tempe, Chandler, or Phoenix, Arizona, or schedule an appointment online today.
A meniscus tear is an injury to the cartilage that separates your thigh bone and shinbone in your knee. Your knee has two meniscus, known as menisci. Your menisci act as shock absorbers and provide stability in your knee.
You can develop a meniscus tear from an acute injury or a degenerative condition. Dr. Dewanjee categorizes meniscus tears based on their appearance and the location of the tear.
Meniscus tears may be described as a flap, bucket handle, or radial tear.
Symptoms of a meniscus tear may not be immediate. However, you may hear a pop when you injure the cartilage. Common symptoms include:
Your meniscus tear symptoms may start out mild and gradually worsen over the next two to three days. If you suspect you have a meniscus tear, schedule an appointment at FXRX Inc.
Getting an early diagnosis and treatment for any knee injury may prevent further damage that prolongs your recovery.
When you visit FXRX Inc. with concerns about knee pain or a knee injury, Dr. Dewanjee conducts a comprehensive clinical exam to determine the underlying cause of your symptoms.
Dr. Dewanjee examines your knee, assessing strength, flexibility, and range of motion, looking for areas of weakness and tenderness that might indicate the underlying cause of your knee condition.
If he suspects you have a meniscus tear, Dr. Dewanjee performs the McMurray test: rotating, straightening, and bending your knee. During this test, you may experience pain and hear a clicking sound that helps confirm a meniscus tear diagnosis.
Dr. Dewanjee also performs an X-ray or an MRI.
Dr. Dewanjee customizes treatment for your meniscus tear based on the type and location of your tear, symptoms, usual activities, and medical history. Initially, Dr. Dewanjee may recommend medical treatment for your meniscus tear, which might include:
If your symptoms fail to improve with non-surgical intervention, Dr. Dewanjee may recommend knee arthroscopy to repair your meniscus tear.
During surgery, Dr. Dewanjee may perform various procedures based on your specific injury, such as a meniscectomy, meniscus repair, or meniscus transplant surgery. As a skilled orthopedic surgeon, he customizes your surgical plan to best meet your needs.
To schedule a consultation, call FXRX Inc. or book an appointment online today.
