Why does the meniscus not heal quickly if damaged or torn?
This is because this area has rich blood supply and blood cells can regenerate meniscus tissue — or help it heal after surgical repair. But if the tear is in the inner two-thirds, which lack blood flow, the tear cannot be repaired and may need to be trimmed or removed surgically.
Does a torn meniscus require emergency surgery?
If your doctor thinks you need surgery to repair the meniscus, it should be done as soon as possible after the injury. You may be able to reduce the risk of long-term problems, such as osteoarthritis, if you confirm that you have a meniscus tear and then have surgery to repair it.
What happens if you don't treat a torn meniscus?
An untreated meniscus tear can result in the frayed edge getting caught in the joint, causing pain and swelling. It can also result in long term knee problems such as arthritis and other soft tissue damage.
Is the swelling for a meniscus immediate or gradual?
Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury Such injuries can often be distinguished with a good history. An ACL tear may cause a "popping" sound or sensation and will often cause immediate swelling. In contrast, the swelling of an isolated medial meniscus tear tends to develop gradually over the course of one to two days.
How do I know if I need meniscus surgery?
If you have a small tear at the outer edge of the meniscus (in what doctors call the red zone ), you may want to try home treatment. These tears often heal with rest. If you have a moderate to large tear at the outer edge of the meniscus (red zone), you may want to think about surgery.
When should you go to the ER for knee pain?
Seek immediate medical attention when knee pain is severe, especially when accompanied by weakness and limited range of motion. Intense Pain: Go to urgent care or the emergency room if you have severe knee pain, especially from a forceful impact.
How long can you let a torn meniscus go untreated?
It could be 8 weeks or more before you're back to regular activities. Some meniscal tears, however, won't improve without surgery, so it's important to consult with a specialist who can talk through your options.
What percent of meniscus tears require surgery?
Differing treatment It's important to know the differences between the tears because usually only acute traumatic tears are surgically repairable. Less than 10 percent of meniscal tears occurring in patients age 40 or older can be repaired.
How do I know if my meniscus tear is severe?
Severe. A tear is usually labeled as severe if the meniscus has a big tear. Loose pieces may cause the knee joint to lock or catch. This level of injury may also keep you from bending or straightening your leg and can make walking difficult.
Can you walk around with a torn meniscus?
Unless the torn meniscus has locked the knee, many people with a torn meniscus can walk, stand, sit, and sleep without pain.
Can a torn meniscus get worse over time?
A meniscus tear can get worse when left untreated. For example, you might have trouble managing the pain and swelling in your knee, or your knee may continue feeling like it's catching or locking. If you feel your symptoms are getting worse instead of better, it could be a sign that your tear isn't healing quite right.
How long does it take to diagnose a torn meniscus?
If you've torn your meniscus, it might take 24 hours or more for pain and swelling to begin, especially if the tear is small. You might develop the following signs and symptoms in your knee: A popping sensation. Swelling or stiffness.