Meniscus Tear Specialist
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Craig Ranch Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine
Dr. William C. Burns II
Sports Medicine Doctor & Board Certified Orthopedic Surgeon located in Frisco, TX
Meniscus tears are one of the most common knee injuries and can happen at anytime to anyone, regardless of the level of your physical health -- one wrong step and the meniscus can be affected. Thankfully, treatments of meniscus tears are well advanced and Dr. William Burns of Craig Ranch Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine in Frisco, Texas, offers the latest techniques in meniscus repair, getting you back on your feet again as quickly as possible.
Meniscus Tear Q&A
What is a meniscus tear?
The meniscus refers to one of two wedge-shaped discs made of cartilage that provide cushioning in each knee joint. In effect, they act as shock absorbers and stabilizers in the knee. Injury to the meniscus is usually classified three ways:
- Minor tear
- Moderate tear
- Severe tear
Meniscus tears are caused mainly by a twisting motion, where the body rotates, but the foot remains planted, and often affect athletes and older people. While a meniscus tear generally is felt right away (most describe it as a popping sensation), unlike ACL tears, you can still remain fairly mobile on the affected knee, depending on the severity of the tear.
What are the symptoms of a meniscus tear?
After the initial injury, meniscus tears present themselves over the following one to three days in many ways. For example:
- Pain
- Swelling
- Stiffness
- Weakness
- Catching or locking of the knee
- Limited range of motion
If you experience any of the symptoms described above, a visit to Dr. Burns will get to the root of the problem. With a thorough examination, Dr. Burns is able to gauge the degree of the tear and recommend a treatment.
How is a meniscus tear treated?
As with most knee injuries, the basic care after the initial injury is key in preventing the tear from becoming worse and can relieve some of the discomfort, as well. Use the RICE method (rest, ice, compression, and elevation) right away while you set up an appointment with Dr. Burns for further evaluation.
After Dr. Burns completes his examination, he may recommend any of the following, based on the location and severity of the meniscus tear, as well as accounting for other considerations, such as your age, activity level, and injury history:
- At-home rest
- Anti-inflammatory medication, such as ibuprofen
- Ice and heat therapy
- Physical therapy
- Surgery to repair or remove the meniscus
Dr. Burns believes in getting to the root of the problem instead of merely treating the symptoms and works with you to find a long-lasting solution.
Insurance
Please call our office for a full list of insurances we accept.
