The knee joint requires a cushion and protection between the bones to absorb shock and prevent friction. Both the top of the tibia and bottom of the femur have articular cartilage for protection, but there is also a cushion of fibrocartilage, called the meniscus, that provides shock absorption in the knee joint. If there is stress put on the knee joint, the meniscus can tear and leave the knee vulnerable to further injury. At Robotic Hip and Knee Replacement LA, we offer torn meniscus repair or treatment at our orthopedic clinic in Los Angeles.

Each knee joint has two meniscus that are attached to the top of the tibia (shin bone) and provide a cushion for the femur (thigh bone). These cartilage cushions are “C” shaped, with one on the outside of the knee (lateral) and one on the inside (medial). The meniscus helps stabilize the knee joint and protects the bones from stress during weight-bearing activities.

Causes and Symptoms of Meniscus Tears

Meniscus tears can occur due to trauma to the knee or from repetitive damage to the cartilage. A sudden twisting of the knee can cause a meniscus tear – this can occur in a fall or when participating in sports or athletic maneuvers. Damage can also occur from repetitive wear on the meniscus or degenerative conditions, like osteoarthritis. Symptoms of a meniscus tear can include:

• Popping, locking or catching in the knee joint
• Pain in the knee joint – this can increase when squatting, rising or pressure on the knee
• Swelling on the inside or outside of the knee
• Baker’s or popliteal cyst – accumulation of fluid behind the knee
• Loss of full range of knee motion – extending or bending

Some small meniscus tears can respond well to conservative treatments, like rest, ice and anti-inflammatory pain medications. Physical therapy can help strengthen the knee and reduce stress on the meniscus. For more pronounced or larger meniscus tears, knee arthroscopy or repairs may be required to relieve pain and other symptoms.

If you have symptoms of a torn meniscus, contact us at Robotic Hip and Knee Replacement LA in Beverly Hills to book your appointment. We can schedule an examination with our orthopedic surgeon to discuss torn meniscus repair.