The meniscus is a piece of cartilage that cushions and stabilizes the knee joint. Tears are common and can occur due to injury or gradual wear.
Not all meniscus tears require surgery, and understanding the difference can help guide treatment decisions. At the practice of Steven C. Thomas, MD and Donald W Pennington, DO, our board-certified surgeons specialize in orthopedic procedures in the Las Vegas area.
What Is a Meniscus Tear?
The meniscus acts as a shock absorber in the knee. A tear can occur from:
- Sudden twisting movements
- Sports injuries
- Degenerative changes over time
Symptoms of a Meniscus Tear
- Knee pain
- Swelling
- Clicking or locking
- Difficulty bending or straightening the knee
When a Meniscus Tear Can Heal on Its Own
Some tears may heal without surgery, especially if they:
- Occur in areas with good blood supply
- Are small or stable
- Cause minimal symptoms
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
- Rest and activity modification
- Physical therapy
- Anti-inflammatory medications
When Surgery Is Needed
Surgery may be recommended if:
- The tear causes locking or instability
- Symptoms persist despite conservative care
- The tear is large or in a poorly vascularized area
Types of Surgical Treatment
- Meniscus repair
- Partial meniscectomy (removal of damaged tissue)
Recovery Timeline
- Non-surgical recovery may take weeks
- Surgical recovery varies depending on the procedure
- Physical therapy is key to restoring function
If you are experiencing knee pain or suspect a meniscus tear, a proper evaluation can determine the best course of treatment. Contact our office to schedule an appointment.
Contact Surgeons Dr. Thomas and Dr. Pennington at the Knee and Shoulder Institute in Las Vegas, NV to Schedule an Appointment:
If you would like to schedule an appointment or learn more about the Knee and Shoulder Institute procedures & treatments,contact the office today click here.
Serving patients from and around greater Las Vegas, Lake Havasu, Bullhead City, Mesquite, Pahrump, Nevada