Meniscal Tear
The knee joint connects the femur (thigh bone) to the tibia (shin bone).
The meniscus consists of two C-shaped pieces of cartilage and sits on top of the tibia. The meniscus facilitates smooth movement between the femur and tibia, absorbs shock, and helps to stabilize your knee joint.
Much like an ACL tear, meniscus tears often occur during sports activities, such as football, tennis, and soccer. However, it can result from any movement that involves twisting of the knee. Pivoting and suddenly changing directions or slowing down are the types of movements that can increase your risk for a torn meniscus. Improper form or repeated squatting can also lead to a meniscus injury.
Meniscus tears can also occur in older people due to degenerative changes that weaken the cartilage. Older people can be very susceptible to tears from simple daily movements that twist the knee.
Meniscus Tear Symptoms
Like an ACL tear, you may hear a popping noise when the meniscus tears and you may experience additional symptoms that develop over time, such as pain, stiffness, swelling, locking or catching of your knee, and instability or giving way of the knee. It may be extremely difficult to walk as you may not be able to move or straighten your knee, and it may not tolerate weight.
If you believe you have a meniscus tear, please contact the Knee Institute at ORTHOKnox to be diagnosed and treated by Dr. David Hovis.
Torn Meniscus Treatment in Athens and Knoxville, TN
We look forward to serving you at one of our convenient locations in Knoxville or Athens, Tennessee. Please call our office at (865) 251-3030. You can also submit your appointment request using our convenient online form.