What if my meniscus Cannot be repaired?

If the tear can’t be repaired, the meniscus might be surgically trimmed, possibly through tiny incisions using an arthroscope. After surgery, you will need to do exercises to increase and maintain knee strength and stability. If you have advanced, degenerative arthritis, your doctor might recommend a knee replacement.

Can you avoid surgery with a torn meniscus?

You may be able to relieve pain and return your knee to normal. You avoid surgery that you may not need if the tear heals on its own. You avoid the risks of surgery. You can still have surgery later if your symptoms don’t get better.

Is there an alternative to surgery for a torn meniscus?

The procedure is going by the name “Percutaneous Meniscal Trephination and Implantation,” or the “Perc-MTI,” for short. This Regenexx procedure is a breakthrough, non-surgical treatment for people suffering from knee pain due to a meniscus tear, or other knee pain resulting from common orthopedic conditions.

What type of meniscus tear requires surgery?

The most common type of tear to the meniscus is a radial tear. This type of tear occurs in the area of the knee that isn’t supplied with blood, so it cannot heal on its own. Surgery may be required if the tear is severe. In the case of a radial tear, the surgeon will trim away the damaged part of the meniscus.

What is a Grade 3 meniscus tear?

Meniscus tears, indicated by MRI, are classified in three grades. Grades 1 and 2 are not considered serious. They may not even be apparent with an arthroscopic examination. Grade 3 is a true meniscus tear and an arthroscope is close to 100 percent accurate in diagnosing this tear.

Is a cortisone shot good for meniscus tear?

A cortisone shot can help decrease the inflammation and pain caused by a torn meniscus. A cortisone shot usually does not help in healing of the meniscus and, hence, does not improve any mechanical symptoms. If a meniscus is repairable, then a cortisone shot is not preferred as it may impair healing of the meniscus.

What makes a meniscus tear worse?

A meniscus tear can get worse when left untreated. For example, you might have trouble managing the pain and swelling in your knee, or your knee may continue feeling like it’s catching or locking.

Will a knee brace help with a meniscus tear?

In general, knee braces decrease compressive forces on the knee by offloading and supporting the joint. This helps relieve pain and improve mobility to enhance recovery. Wearing a brace can help limit the stress placed on your meniscus while it heals and protect you from re-injury.

Will cortisone shot help a torn meniscus?