Are there any non-invasive treatment options available for a torn meniscus, and how effective are they?

What Happens If You Don’t Repair a Torn Meniscus?

A meniscus is a C-shaped cartilage located in the knee joint that acts as a cushion between the thigh bone and shinbone. A torn meniscus is a common knee injury, especially among athletes. The symptoms of a torn meniscus include pain, swelling, clicking in the knee, and difficulty bending or straightening the leg.

Untreated Torn Meniscus Can Lead to:

• Pain: If left untreated, the pain can increase in intensity and can also be accompanied by inflammation. This can lead to a decrease in mobility and cause discomfort when performing everyday activities such as walking or climbing the stairs.
• Increased Risk of Osteoarthritis: An untreated torn meniscus can cause an increase in friction between the bones in the knee. This, in turn, can cause damage to the cartilage, leading to osteoarthritis, which is a degenerative joint disease characterized by joint stiffness, pain, and limited mobility.
• Decreased Mobility: A torn meniscus can interfere with your ability to perform daily activities such as walking, running, or climbing stairs. This can lead to a decrease in overall mobility.

Treatment for a Torn Meniscus:

If you suspect you have a torn meniscus, it’s essential to seek medical attention immediately. The treatment for a torn meniscus depends on the severity of the injury. In some cases, nonsurgical treatment, such as rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) can help manage the pain and swelling.

However, in more severe cases, surgery may be necessary. There are two types of surgery for a torn meniscus:

• Arthroscopic Surgery: This is a minimally invasive surgical procedure where the surgeon uses a tiny camera called an arthroscope to view the inside of the knee and repair the meniscus tear using small instruments inserted through tiny incisions in the knee.
• Open Surgery: In more severe cases, open surgery may be required. This procedure involves a larger incision to repair the meniscus tear.

Conclusion:

A torn meniscus can be a painful injury that can lead to complications if left untreated. If you suspect you have a torn meniscus, it’s essential to seek medical attention immediately. The treatment depends on the severity of the injury, and surgery may be necessary for more severe tears. By seeking prompt medical attention and completing treatment, you can avoid long-term complications and get back to enjoying your life and activities without pain.