Meniscus / Cartilage Tears Specialist

What are meniscus and cartilage tears?

Your meniscus includes two C-shaped wedges of cartilage in your knees. Nestled between your femur (thigh bone) and tibia (shin bone), your meniscus absorbs shock and stabilizes your joints. 

You can stretch and tear your meniscus and other cartilage in your knees. Signs of a meniscus or cartilage tear include:

• A popping sensation or sound
• Knee pain
• Swelling and stiffness
• Reduced ability to extend your knee
• Feeling like your knee is locked in place
• Reduced stability
• Feeling like your knee gives way

If you have a knee injury or think you may have a meniscus tear, make an appointment at Coastal Empire Orthopedics. Dr. Shults offers expert diagnosis and treatment to help you recover quickly and safely.

What are the common causes of meniscus and cartilage tears?

Meniscus and cartilage tears are common sports injuries, and they usually occur due to a sudden twist or rotation in your knee. You could also tear your meniscus while squatting or lifting a heavy object.

Your risk of meniscus and cartilage tears increases with age, as your connective tissue becomes drier and less flexible.

How are meniscus and cartilage tears diagnosed?

Your provider at Coastal Empire Orthopedics begins by reviewing your symptoms, medical history, and details about how you injured your knee. They examine your knee, checking for signs of swelling and other deformities, and might ask you to bend or extend your knee. 

The team also uses diagnostic imaging studies like X-rays and MRIs to examine the inside of your knee to confirm a diagnosis. 

How are meniscus and cartilage tears treated?

Treatment for meniscus and cartilage tears depends on the severity of your injury. For example, your provider might recommend the RICE method (rest, ice, compression, elevation) for mild injuries. They also offer regenerative medicine injections to accelerate your healing process.

However, if your injury is more severe, Dr. Shults might recommend surgery to repair your meniscus. He uses minimally invasive arthroscopy to repair meniscus tears. 

During the operation, Dr. Shults makes a couple of small incisions in your knee and uses specialized instruments, including an arthroscope, to restore your knee without having to make a large incision. 

If you’re concerned about a meniscus or cartilage tear, call Coastal Empire Orthopedics or make an appointment online today.