The New York Manual to Meniscal Tear Treatment in Lower Manhattan

One of the most common knee injuries is a meniscal tear. Your meniscus works as a shock absorber and protective cushion to the cartilage surrounding the knee joint. Athletes are particularly susceptible to meniscus injuries. Whether sports-related or the result of degeneration, meniscus tears can produce uncomfortable and painful symptoms. When seeking meniscal tear treatment in Lower Manhattan, local residents choose Rothman Orthopaedic Institute. We’re committed to getting you back in motion!

When to Seek Meniscal Tear Treatment in Lower Manhattan

Typically, a meniscus tear occurs from either a force of impact or a twist of the knee. High-impact sports such as football and soccer typically produce this type of injury. A meniscal tear can also occur as a result of degeneration. Over time, your cartilage thins and weakens, increasing the probability of a tear occurring.

When patients tear their meniscus, they may experience the following symptoms:

• An audible “pop” when the injury first occurs

• Moderate to severe pain and swelling

• Stiffness in the knee and a sensation that the knee is locked or “giving way”

• A limited range of motion

Symptoms may vary depending on the extent of the tear and the patient’s activity level. Certain physical activities may worsen the pain.

If you are experiencing any combination of the above symptoms, Rothman Orthopaedic Institute’s Sports Medicine specialists are available to provide meniscal tear treatment in Lower Manhattan.

Diagnosis and Non-Surgical Treatment

Our physicians and surgeons specialize in evidence-based medicine. This means we incorporate the latest medical research findings into our practice. In turn, we provide patients with highly effective, specialized orthopaedic care.

To properly treat a meniscal tear, your doctor will conduct a physical examination during your visit. She or he will also review your symptoms and medical history with you. In some situations, an MRI may be ordered to confirm a diagnosis.

Mild meniscal tears are often addressed through conservative methods such as rest, ice, compression, and elevation (otherwise known as the RICE method). Your physician might also suggest Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections, which has the potential to reduce inflammation and promote healing in mild meniscus injuries.

Surgical Options

If symptoms persist and the torn meniscus does not respond to conservative treatment methods, surgery may be recommended. Surgical procedures for this injury include:

• Knee Arthroscopy Surgery
  Knee arthroscopy is one of the most common methods of meniscal tear treatment. When your surgeon performs knee arthroscopy, a tiny camera is placed inside a small incision. The camera allows a more precise view of the knee. Once the repair is complete, the small incision is closed.

• Partial Meniscectomy
  A partial meniscectomy removes the damaged meniscus tissue.

• Meniscus Repair
  Rather than eliminate the damaged area, your surgeon will suture (stitch) the torn pieces of the meniscus back together.

The type of meniscal surgery recommended by your Rothman surgeon is determined by several factors:

• Patient age

• Longevity of the tear

• Size and location of the tear

• Patient activity level

Repairing the meniscus is always preferable to removal. Our doctors’ goals are always to ensure as rapid and safe of a recovery as possible.

To promote healing, your doctor will prescribe personalized rehabilitation exercises. Physical therapy exercises can maximize recovery and improve range of motion in the knee. Arthroscopy patients should expect up to six weeks of recovery following the procedure. Rehabilitation for a full meniscus repair typically takes three months. A meniscectomy usually requires three to four weeks of healing.

Rothman Orthopaedic Institute can provide you with exceptional meniscal tear treatment in Lower Manhattan. For more information on meniscus injury treatment and our services, please visit us here or contact us at 1-800-321-9999.