Torn Meniscus

A torn meniscus is one of the injuries common that affects the knee. A torn meniscus occurs as a result of any activity that makes you to forcefully twist or rotate your knee, most especially when exerting your full weight on it.

Each of the two knees has two menisci C-shaped pieces of cartilage which works like a cushion between the shinbone and the thighbone. A torn meniscus results in pain, swelling, and stiffness. Movement of your knees can also be blocked and in addition, you can find it difficult to extend your knees to its full length.

What are the Causes of a Torn Meniscus?

Individuals who engage in any activities that result in bending or twisting of the knee beyond its normal range are at higher risk of developing a torn meniscus.

The most common cause of torn meniscus is sports injuries. Sometimes, direct contact, for example from a football tackle can result in a torn meniscus.

Athletes, especially those who play contact sports and dancers are another set of people with an increased risk of developing a torn meniscus. In addition, older adults, of course, have an increased risk of knee injuries, including a torn meniscus and this is because of age-related knee changes and degeneration. When this happens, there are often no direct incidents that cause harm.

Increase in age weakens the meniscus. Tears are common in individuals who are above the age of 30 years. Movements, like squatting or walking, can cause injury in people with weak menisci.

Individuals, who have osteoarthritis, are at higher risk of knee injuries or torn meniscus. Osteoarthritis is a common disorder of the joints that causes pain and stiffness in the joints caused by aging and wear and tear.

Individuals that have knee injuries in the past can also be at higher risk of meniscus tear which occurs repeatedly because of the trauma that caused the other injury.

What are the Symptoms of a Torn Meniscus?

The most common and visible symptoms of a torn meniscus is knee pain. At the time of injury, some individuals can experience a popping sensation. Below are some common symptoms of a torn meniscus:

• swelling and stiffness in the affected knee
• knee pain
• it will be difficult to straighten the knee
• feeling like the knee is locked
• restricted range of motion
• a sensation of the knee giving out

It is possible for some people with a torn meniscus to work with the injury. Some athletes can still practice their sport with the injury, especially immediately after the incident, because stiffness and swelling may take a few days before they surface.

In the event that the activity lasts too long, part of the meniscus may break off and drift into the joints which results in more serious symptoms including:

• slipping kneecap
• painful popping in the knee
• locking knee

Torn Meniscus Treatment

Treatment for a Torn Meniscus requires restoring the circulation and blood flow to the affected structures in your knee. Pain is caused when swelling, inflammation and decreased circulation generate a blockage, which causes blood flow to be interrupted or slowed. Treatment for this issue requires breaking up the accumulated fluids in your knee to allow for improved healing and quicker recovery.

Products recommended for symptoms of swelling, redness, pain, and inflammation, and if coolness makes your pain feel better:

Ice Substitute Poultice

Bruise Relief Liniment

Muscle Therapy Massage Oil

Products recommended when swelling and inflammation are gone, but you still feel pain, stiffness, weakness, and/or sensitivity in cold and damp weather, and if heat makes your pain feel better:

Pain Relief Liniment

Tendon and Ligament Poultice

Muscle Therapy Massage Oil