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Torn Medial Meniscus: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

A torn medial meniscus can cause intense pain and swelling. Surgery may be needed for severe tears, but prompt diagnosis can help prevent long-term damage.

In the center of the image there is a leg stretcher.
In the center of the image there is a leg stretcher.

Torn Medial Meniscus: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

A torn medial meniscus, a common knee injury, can cause intense knee pain and swelling within the first 24 hours. This condition requires prompt attention, as severe tears may necessitate knee surgery.

The medial meniscus, a crescent-shaped cartilage band, is located between the shin and thigh bones. It's less mobile than its lateral counterpart due to its firm attachment to the tibial collateral ligament. Injuries to the medial meniscus are often caused by twisting or spraining the knee with sudden force, leading to meniscus tears.

Symptoms of a torn medial meniscus include intense swelling and knee pain within the first 24 hours. Patients may find relief when keeping the knee bent, but experience gradual pain after stressing the knee. External rotation of the knee puts the most strain on the medial meniscus.

If the tear is above Grade 2 on a 1 to 4 scale, knee surgery may be required. Common procedures include arthroscopic repair, partial meniscectomy, and total meniscectomy. Unfortunately, specific information about an innovative method for arthroscopic repair by a particular doctor was not found.

Torn medial meniscus tears can be debilitating and may require surgical intervention. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent further damage and ensure a full recovery.

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