A meniscus tear is one of the most common knee injuries, affecting both athletes and non-athletes alike. Whether caused by sudden trauma or gradual wear and tear, this injury can lead to significant knee pain and mobility issues.
Benjamin W. Szerlip, DO, specializes in diagnosing and treating knee injuries, including meniscus tears. As a fellowship-trained surgeon in Austin, Texas, Dr. Szerlip provides both conservative and surgical treatment options to help you regain strength and function in your knee joint. Book your appointment today!
“Dr. Szerlip was very personable, knowledgeable, and took time for all my questions. He gave great explanations of my problem and potential solutions. I have full confidence in his recommendations for treatment and therapy.” — Pam G.
The meniscus is a C-shaped piece of cartilage located in the knee joint, acting as a cushion between the thigh bone (femur) and the shinbone (tibia). Each knee has two menisci:
These structures help distribute weight, absorb shock, and stabilize the joint. However, due to their role in knee function, they are prone to injury, especially with sudden twisting movements or long-term degeneration.
A torn meniscus occurs when the cartilage between the knee and tibia is damaged. Acute meniscus tears can occur through forceful twisting motion, and degenerative meniscus tears occur through gradual wear and tear.
Different types of meniscal tears are identified by the shape of the tear and where they occur. Tears types include the following:
Meniscus tear symptoms can vary based on the type and severity of the injury. Common signs include:
If you experience persistent knee pain and mobility issues, seeking professional evaluation is important.
Common causes of a meniscus injury include the following:
Risk factors associated with a meniscus injury include the following:
To diagnose a meniscus injury, Dr. Szerlip will perform the following:
Early diagnosis ensures the best possible treatment plan for recovery.
Treatment depends on factors like age, symptoms, activity level, and the tear’s type, size, and location.
Tears in the outer “red” zone, which has a good blood supply, may heal naturally or be repaired surgically. In contrast, the inner “white” zone lacks blood flow, preventing natural healing. Tears here that don’t improve with conservative treatment often require surgical trimming.
For minor or moderate meniscal tears, conservative treatment may be recommended, including:
If conservative methods fail, meniscus repair surgery or partial meniscectomy (removal of the damaged portion) may be necessary. Dr. Szerlip specializes in minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery to restore knee function effectively.
Recovery depends on the severity of the tear and the chosen treatment:
A structured rehabilitation program guided by a physical therapist is essential for optimal recovery.
Ignoring a torn meniscus can lead to:
Seeking early treatment prevents long-term complications and ensures better outcomes.
If you’re experiencing meniscus tear symptoms, don’t wait for the condition to worsen. Benjamin W. Szerlip, DO, provides personalized treatment plans to ensure the best possible recovery. Schedule a consultation today at our office in Austin, TX, to discuss your treatment options and take the first step toward pain-free knee function!
