Meniscal Injuries AKA “Torn Cartilage”
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Abstract
The meniscus is a disc of cartilage located between the femur and tibia that acts as a cushion to redistribute the forces in the
knee joint. Meniscal tears may result from an acute, traumatic injury to a young, healthy knee. In older patients, mensical
tears are often due to degenerative changes in the meniscus and daily wear and tear. Symptoms of a torn meniscus include pain,
especially going up stairs, swelling of the knee, locking or clicking. Meniscal tears are diagnosed by physical exam or MRI.
If mensical damage is identified on physical exam, MRI is not needed before treatment. Treatment of acute tears is surgical
resection or repair. Treatment of degenerative tears is more
conservative with physical therapy and supportive measures being
the focus of treatment. If conservative treatment fails, then
the indications for surgery are reevaluated.
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Schneider, Kristi. (2008). Meniscal Injuries AKA “Torn Cartilage”. Retrieved from the University Digital Conservancy, https://hdl.handle.net/11299/44290.
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