Meniscus Tear

What is a Meniscus Tear and how is it treated?

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What is a Meniscus Tear?

The menisci are the two C-shaped pieces of cartilage on either side of the knee that lies on top of the tibia (shin bone). The meniscus cushions the knee joint by evenly distributing the load placed on the knee when standing and moving.

A meniscus tear can occur due to a sudden change in direction when walking or running.  Meniscus tears are also common among athletes as a result of a direct blow to the knee or due to a sharp cut or pivot during competition.  Another common causes of meniscus tears is osteoarthritis as small pieces of bone (osteophytes) begin to wear down the cartiliage.

Patients with meniscus tears may experience any of the following symptoms:

  • Pain
  • Catching or locking of the knee
  • Stiffness
  • Swelling
  • Decreased range of motion
  • Weakness

Meniscus tears should always be treated by a knee specialist. The Fellowship Trained and Board Certified Knee Specialists at Olympia Orthopaedic Associates use customized treatment plans to help patients quickly recover and get back to an active and healthy lifestyle.

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How is it treated?

The treatment options for meniscus tears often depends on the area in which the meniscus is torn as well as the severity of the tear. A physical examination and MRI help specialists determine the severity of the tear. Some tears may be effectively treated using nonsurgical treatment options, such as the following:

  • Physical therapy
  • Bracing
  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
  • Injections

Meniscus tears that do not respond to nonsurgical treatment or are severe in nature may need to be surgically repaired. During an arthroscopic meniscus repair, the tear is fixed using small sutures and an anchoring device. The Fellowship Trained and Board Certified Knee Specialists at Olympia Orthopaedics Associates are experts at arthroscopic knee surgery and utilize the latest advancement in meniscus repair procedures.

Should I Make An Appointment?

Patients who are experiencing knee pain or injury should not delay a diagnosis. Below are Olympia Orthopaedic Associates Knee Experts:

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Dr. Dominic Femiano

Dr. Bradley C. Christ

Dr. Thomas Helpenstell

Dr. Milan S. Moore

Dr. Williams Peterson

Dr. L. Anthony Agtarap

Dr. Jerome Zechmann

Dr. P. Brodie Wood

Dr. R. Trent McKay

Dr. Ryan E. Will

Dr. Tracy Hamblin

Dr. Darrin Trask

Patients who make an appointment can look forward to symptom relief. Appointments may be made by requesting an appointment online or calling our office.

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Recent Patient Testimonials

“Dr. Femiano and his staff are the best! They answer messages very promptly and have taken very good care of me. I feel Dr. Femiano especially takes his time to be very thorough, and listen to what I’ve had to say as well. Thank you Dr Femiano.”
Chantal N.

Treated by: Dominick Femiano, MD

“I ruptured the ACL in my right knee in April 2016; this occurred on a Saturday, while away from home. On Monday, I contacted Olympia Orthopaedic Associates and was seen the next morning by Dr. Snow. He diagnosed the injury and ordered an MRI. I do not hesitate to recommend Olympia Orthopaedic Associates!”
David E.

Treated by: Stephen Snow, MD

“My surgery on my knee went very well and am back playing soccer already! My experience with everyone was great!”
Ronald H.

Treated by: Jerome Zechmann, MD

 

Are You Ready To Take The Next Steps?

We encourage you to contact our care coordinators or make an appointment with one of our Board-Certified & Fellowship-Trained Orthopaedic Specialists at Olympia Orthopaedics.

Call Us Today! (360) 570 3460

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