Meniscus tears are one of the most common knee injuries. Anyone can get these tears, but they are more common in physically active people, such as athletes. At Boston Orthopaedic P.C., we offer treatment for meniscus tears. We use physical therapy and orthopedic care, which are less invasive and don’t cause adverse side effects, unlike surgery. We use a variety of techniques such as rest, ice, and exercises to help you find relief from pain and improve your range of motion. If you would like to schedule a consultation, contact one of our offices in New Bedford, Fall River and Springfield, MA.
Causes of Meniscus Tears
Meniscus tears can occur after a physical trauma or gradual degeneration. In sports, these tears can occur through contact or high-impact accidents. Meniscus tears that are caused by degeneration mostly affect older patients.
Symptoms of Meniscus Tears
The most common symptorris of meniscus tears include:
- Stiffness and swelling of the knee
- Inability to move the knee fully
- Pain
When To Seek Treatment
It is advisable to seek treatment immediately when you feel the symptoms of a meniscus tear. Waiting will only make you feel pain since the injury is unlikely to heal on its own. The injury may also become worse, especially if you continue performing physical activities.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Meniscus Tears
When you visit a physical therapist with symptoms of meniscus tears, we start with a comprehensive exam. We may also ask for imaging tests such as an x-ray or MRI.
After diagnosis, treatment is started immediately to provide pain relief and promote healing. Treatment depends on certain factors such as location and the size of the injury. Many people prefer non-surgical approaches such as physical therapy and orthopedic care since they are non-invasive and do not require an extensive recovery period.
The healing process takes place gradually and is likely to require several sessions, depending on the severity of the condition. The therapist may also recommend home therapies such as:
- Taking a rest from physical activities
- Ice therapy
- Elevation
- Compression
Medication can also be used to reduce swelling and pain.
Can Meniscus Tears Be Prevented?
It is possible to prevent meniscus tears by practicing the following:
- Keeping the thigh muscles strong by exercising
- Avoiding abrupt increases in workout intensity
- Giving the body proper time to rest between workout sessions
- Warming up adequately before intense exercises
- Make sure your shoes fit well and offer proper support
Learn More about Meniscus Tear Treatment at Boston Orthopaedic P.C.
Contact Boston Orthopaedic P.C. for meniscus tears treatment. We have extensive experience in treating these injuries and helping our patients resume normal pain-free lives. Call our Fall River office today at (508) 675-2840, New Bedford office at (508) 997-8500, or our Springfield office at (413) 930-9700.