Meniscus Injuries: Symptoms, Treatment, and Recovery Tips

Meniscus injury

A week ago, I fell while getting off my scooter and dislocated my knee and displaced my femur.
I have seen a chiropractor who realigned it, but I am still in pain.
I went to an orthopedic doctor for an ultrasound, and he said I have a meniscus cartilage injury with fragments, and there is fluid accumulation in the knee.
The fluid has been drained, but I still have difficulty walking.
I cannot support my weight when going up and down stairs, and it is painful.
My knee can bend to about 120 degrees, but I experience significant pain on the outer side, and there is some pain on the inner side, though less.
When I touch the outer side of my knee, it is noticeably painful, particularly in the upper middle area, closer to the thigh.
Standing on both legs does not cause pain, but walking feels like my knee is catching, and I cannot exert normal speed.
The center of my knee also hurts, and it feels noticeably weak, making it difficult to lift my lower leg.
Should I apply ice or heat when experiencing pain on the outer side? What should I pay attention to in order to alleviate the pain? Should I pursue rehabilitation or rest and allow it to heal on its own? What can I do to facilitate faster recovery?

Chen Pinzhen, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/07/21

Dr. Chen Yongxue reply Orthopedics

Hello, ligaments and tendons are different.
Diagnosis relies on physical examination, ultrasound, or MRI.
Based on the description in the letter, it is indeed difficult to determine.
Please consult your attending physician.
Thank you.

Reply Date: 2017/07/21

More Info

Meniscus injuries are common knee injuries that can occur due to trauma, such as falling or twisting the knee, and they can lead to significant pain and functional limitations. Based on your description, it sounds like you have sustained a meniscus injury along with other knee-related issues, such as swelling and pain during movement. Here’s a comprehensive overview of meniscus injuries, their symptoms, treatment options, and recovery tips.

Symptoms of Meniscus Injuries
The symptoms of a meniscus injury can vary, but common signs include:
1. Pain: This is often localized to the area of the knee where the meniscus is located, which can be on the inner or outer side of the knee. You mentioned experiencing pain on the outer side of your knee, which aligns with a possible meniscus tear.

2. Swelling: Accumulation of fluid in the knee joint (effusion) is common after a meniscus injury. You noted that your knee has swelling, which is a typical response to injury.

3. Stiffness: You may experience difficulty bending or straightening your knee fully, as you described with your inability to flex beyond 120 degrees.

4. Locking or Catching Sensation: Some individuals report a sensation of the knee locking or catching during movement, which can occur if a piece of the torn meniscus gets caught in the joint.

5. Instability: You mentioned feeling that your knee is weak or unstable, which can happen if the meniscus is damaged.

Treatment Options
1. Rest and Activity Modification: It’s essential to rest your knee and avoid activities that exacerbate the pain. This includes avoiding heavy lifting and high-impact activities like running or jumping.

2. Ice Therapy: Applying ice to the affected area can help reduce swelling and numb the pain. Ice should be applied for 15-20 minutes every few hours, especially after activities that aggravate your symptoms.

3. Compression and Elevation: Using a compression bandage can help minimize swelling, and elevating your leg can also assist in reducing fluid accumulation.

4. Medications: Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. Since aspirin did not work for you, consider trying these alternatives, but consult with a healthcare professional if you have any contraindications.

5. Physical Therapy: Engaging in physical therapy can be beneficial for strengthening the muscles around the knee, improving flexibility, and restoring function. A physical therapist can design a rehabilitation program tailored to your specific needs.

6. Surgical Intervention: If conservative treatments do not provide relief and your symptoms persist, surgical options may be considered. This could involve repairing the torn meniscus or, in some cases, partial meniscectomy (removal of the damaged part).

Recovery Tips
- Follow a Rehabilitation Program: Adhere to any prescribed physical therapy regimen, focusing on exercises that strengthen the quadriceps and hamstrings, as these muscles support the knee joint.

- Gradual Return to Activity: Once your pain decreases and you regain strength, gradually return to your normal activities. Avoid rushing back into sports or high-impact activities until cleared by a healthcare professional.

- Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms and report any significant changes to your healthcare provider. If you experience increased pain, swelling, or instability, further evaluation may be necessary.

- Consider a Knee Brace: A knee brace can provide additional support during the healing process, especially if you feel unstable.

In summary, managing a meniscus injury involves a combination of rest, ice, compression, elevation, medication, and possibly physical therapy. If symptoms persist or worsen, it’s crucial to follow up with an orthopedic specialist for further evaluation and treatment options. Always listen to your body and give it the time it needs to heal properly.

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