Meniscus Treatment Options for Knee Pain Relief - Orthopedics

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Knee pain, particularly related to meniscus injuries, can be quite debilitating and frustrating, especially when conservative treatments do not yield the desired relief. Based on your description, it seems you have been experiencing significant pain and functional limitations in your left knee following a rotational injury. The pain during activities such as squatting and walking, along with the need for ice to manage discomfort, indicates that your knee is likely still compromised.


Understanding Meniscus Injuries
The meniscus is a C-shaped cartilage that acts as a cushion between the femur (thigh bone) and tibia (shin bone). It plays a crucial role in knee stability and shock absorption. Meniscus tears can occur due to acute injuries, such as twisting motions, or degenerative changes over time. Symptoms of a meniscus tear often include pain, swelling, stiffness, and difficulty moving the knee.


Treatment Options
1. Conservative Management: Initially, treatment often involves rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE). Physical therapy can help strengthen the muscles around the knee and improve flexibility. However, as you noted, if these methods do not lead to improvement, further interventions may be necessary.

2. Injections: Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections are sometimes used to promote healing in soft tissue injuries, but as you experienced, they can also lead to increased pain in some cases. If PRP exacerbated your symptoms, it may be worth discussing alternative injection options, such as corticosteroids or hyaluronic acid, with your physician.

3. Surgical Options: If conservative treatments fail, arthroscopic surgery may be considered. This minimally invasive procedure allows the surgeon to visualize the knee joint and address any meniscal tears directly. Depending on the nature of the tear, the surgeon may perform a meniscectomy (removal of the damaged meniscal tissue) or a meniscus repair. The decision to proceed with surgery often depends on the size, location, and type of tear, as well as the patient's age and activity level.


When to Consider Surgery
Given that you have been experiencing persistent pain and functional limitations despite conservative management, it may be time to consult with an orthopedic surgeon specializing in knee injuries. They can evaluate your MRI results and perform a physical examination to determine if surgery is warranted. If the MRI shows only minor changes in the meniscus, it may be possible that your symptoms are due to other factors, such as patellofemoral pain or issues with the ligaments surrounding the knee.


Post-Surgical Recovery
If surgery is performed, recovery typically involves a rehabilitation program tailored to your specific needs. This may include physical therapy to regain strength and range of motion. The timeline for returning to normal activities varies but generally ranges from a few weeks to several months, depending on the extent of the surgery and your adherence to rehabilitation protocols.


Conclusion
In summary, while conservative treatments are the first line of defense for meniscus injuries, persistent pain and functional limitations may necessitate further evaluation and possibly surgical intervention. It is crucial to work closely with a healthcare provider who can guide you through the decision-making process and tailor a treatment plan that addresses your specific needs. If you have not already done so, consider seeking a second opinion from an orthopedic specialist who can provide insights based on the latest evidence and your unique situation.