what to do for a torn meniscus

what to do for a torn meniscus

1 year ago 58
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A torn meniscus is a common knee injury that can cause pain, swelling, and weakness in the knee joint. Depending on the size and location of the tear, it may heal without surgery. Here are some steps you can take to treat a torn meniscus:

1. Rest and Ice

  • Keep your weight off the injured knee as much as possible.
  • Ice your knee for 15-20 minutes every 3-4 hours for 2-3 days or until the pain and swelling is gone.

2. Medication

  • Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or aspirin can help relieve pain and reduce swelling.

3. Physical Therapy

  • Physical therapy can help you strengthen the muscles around your knee and in your legs to help stabilize and support the knee joint.

4. Surgery

  • If your knee remains painful despite rehabilitative therapy or if your knee locks, your doctor might recommend surgery.
  • Its sometimes possible to repair a torn meniscus, especially in children and younger adults. If the tear cant be repaired, the meniscus might be surgically trimmed, possibly through tiny incisions using an arthroscope.

Its important to note that not all meniscus tears require surgery, and many tears can improve over time with conservative treatment. If youre experiencing symptoms of a torn meniscus, its best to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment for your specific case.

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