Meniscus Tear
Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Your knee is made up of several different bones and cartilage, which are covered by strong tissue called the meniscus. This cartilage acts as a cushion between your bones, ensuring that they do not rub against each other when you move your knee. The meniscus can tear in many different ways, and it’s possible to tear either the outer or inner edge of the meniscus (the part most commonly affected by tears).
The common causes of a torn meniscus
Meniscus tears are most commonly caused by athletic injuries. Specifically, these injuries often result from sudden stops or changes in direction with excessive force placed on your knee (e.g., cutting hard during a pick-up basketball game). In addition to direct physical trauma, there’s evidence that repetitive physical stress may contribute to a meniscus tear. For example, repeated jumping may cause damage over time—much like how taking aspirin over an extended period of time can lead to internal bleeding.
What are the signs and symptoms associated with an MCL tear?
If you feel sharp pain in your knee when moving it or experience sudden swelling after a recent injury, you may have an MCL tear. Similar to ACL tears, MCL tears are often caused by traumatic injuries such as a fall or car accident.
However, they can also be caused by repetitive stress on your knees (such as running). Since MCLs are located on each side of your knee joint, they can become inflamed and tear if one is already weak due to damage or an underlying condition.
What treatment options do you have if you suffer from an MCL injury?
Depending on your goals for recovery—be they performance-based or more restorative—therapy can last anywhere from one month to several months. We’ll help you understand how much time you need to spend in therapy and how often sessions should occur. We work with our patients to make sure they know what’s happening during their recovery process, so there are no surprises along the way. This is exactly why we offer a 30 min. discovery visit before your plan of care begins. So we can both feel confident that we can help you get back to doing what you love and beyond.
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Brett
“Brian can measure range of motion, determine the shortcomings in your swing, and stretch or work out those joints or muscles that need it. This is how the pros generate club head speed! “
“I started with Brian Murphy for a tear rehab post surgery. My rehab went great thanks to Brian. All the exercises and stretching combined with Brian's knowledge of the body was extremely beneficial. If you have to have rehab for anything Brian is incredibly well trained and his enthusiasm for what he does is contagious. It makes a big difference when you are going through rehab. Next we moved on the golf. Range of motion issues are huge when you are swinging a golf club. Brian can measure range of motion, determine the shortcomings in your swing, and stretch or work out those joints or muscles that need it. This is how the pros generate club head speed! Overall I was extremely impressed with Brian Murphy, and Pinnacle Physical Therapy”
Kim
“I was so pleased with the improvements in my ability to perform my normal daily activities after hiring him.”
“I recently underwent surgery for a torn meniscus in the left knee. Upon completion of physical therapy at an orthopedic clinic, I discovered that Brian Murphy, who has a doctorate in physical therapy, was available for hire by Chenal Country Club Fitness Center members. I met with Dr. Murphy & he came up with a personalized plan of care after assessing my condition. This involved hands on treatment to the knee as well as home and fitness regimens geared toward the strengthening and mobility of the knee. Measurements of the knee were taken periodically to determine the best protocol necessary to improve the knee function. Dr. Murphy provided excellent care and he was easily accessible through texts and emails. He was kind, conscientious, and patient. He also sent email video demonstrations and detailed instructions for each exercise. I was so pleased with the improvements in my ability to perform my normal daily activities after hiring him. I started a fitness program with him after we finished physical therapy and feel better than ever!” -Kim