Your Options for Non-Operative Meniscal Tear Treatment on the Lower East Side

The Experts at Rothman Orthopaedic Institute Offer Non-Operative Meniscal Treatments

Sometimes, surgery is necessary in order to adequately address a medical condition. In the case of meniscal tears, surgery is frequently recommended as the most effective solution for sufficient, long-term health.

Surgery, however, is not always the ideal solution. While surgery is recommended when non-operative solutions prove insufficient, most patients would prefer to avoid surgical operations whenever possible. And, the good news for patients seeking a non-operative meniscal tear treatment on the Lower East Side is: numerous effective, reliable treatment options exist.

At Rothman Orthopaedic Institute, we understand that surgery is a last resort. When non-operative options have been exhausted, Rothman Orthopaedic Institute is proud to offer the best surgical treatments for meniscal tears of any available orthopaedic surgeon. However, we emphasize and prioritize the administration of top-quality, effective non-operative treatments whenever possible.

Continue reading to learn about some of the non-operative options recommended by the orthopaedic experts at Rothman Orthopaedic Institute for patients with meniscal tears.

Meniscal Tears

Any specialist knee doctor can tell you that meniscal tears are common and problematic injuries. Made up of two wedge-shaped portions of cartilage between the thigh bone and shinbone and fitted within the knee joint, the meniscus is susceptible to tears of varying types and degrees of severity.

Most common among athletes, meniscal tears typically occur as the consequence of a direct impact or twisting motion. Aging persons may experience a meniscal tear due to general degradation of the knee’s cartilage. These injuries may likewise occur alongside related knee injuries—including ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) tears.

Symptoms of meniscal tears include:

• Swelling of the knee

• Stiffness within the knee

• Pain when the knee is rotated or twisted

• Sensations of popping within the knee

• Inability to fully straighten the knee

• Sensations of locking or catching of the knee

• Inhibited range of motion

For patients with meniscal tears or those who are experiencing these symptoms and require a diagnosis to determine the status of their injury, the doctors at Rothman Orthopaedic Institute can help. If you are diagnosed with a meniscal tear, you have three primary options for a non-operative meniscal tear treatment on the Lower East Side.

Three Options of Non-Operative Meniscus Treatment

The doctors at Rothman Orthopaedic Institute have extensive experience treating knee patients. For meniscal tear conditions, they generally recommend the following three non-operative treatment options:

1. R.I.C.E.: For tears that are small and along the outer edge of the meniscus, a combination of rest, icing, compression, and elevation may allow it to sufficiently heal. This method generally only works for patients with athletic injuries and is not typically recommended for patients of meniscal degradation associated with aging.

2. Physical Therapy: Strengthening the muscles and ligaments surrounding the knee and in the legs can help to improve support and stabilization of the knee joint. Physical therapy aimed at strengthening these supportive muscles is often recommended for patients with meniscal tears.

3. Medications: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (such as aspirin and ibuprofen) can assist in the reduction of inflammation and pain in the knee joint. These drugs are typically available over the counter and should only be taken as directed by your knee doctor.

Whether you are an eligible candidate for a non-operative meniscal tear treatment on the Lower East Side or require surgery to repair your meniscal tear, the orthopaedic experts at Rothman Orthopaedic Institute can offer you the best treatment options available. With expertise treating knee patients, Rothman Orthopaedic Institute ensures that your care is second to none. If you have any questions about meniscal treatments, contact Rothman Orthopaedic Institute today. To learn more, visit us here or contact us at 1-800-321-9999.