Knee injuries are some of the most annoying, stressful and prevalent medical problems in the world today, and one of the worst knee injuries is a torn meniscus. If you suffer from this debilitating injury, then Olsen Orthopedics is here to help. Nobody with a torn meniscus should have to worry about treatment or pain any longer as our team will treat you with the utmost care and top-of-the-line medical equipment.
What is a Meniscus?
There are two menisci in both your knees that are C-shaped pieces of cartilage designed to act as a cushion between your shin and thigh bone. They work to act to disperse the weight of the body and reduce friction during movement so as to prevent large amounts of force from damaging the joints in the knee. Not treating a damaged or torn meniscus can, therefore, lead to further medical complications as the support systems for the knee are damaged and other parts now have to support added weight, so if you believe you may have a torn meniscus in Oklahoma City, it’s important to seek a diagnosis and treatment immediately.
How Do Injuries Occur?
Age can also play a large factor as the older you get, the more worn down the joint becomes. Especially for large males, knee pain and a torn meniscus are not an uncommon result of an elderly fall or slip. However, the injury can occur in people of any age and always requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms include, but are not limited to:
- A popping sensation in the knee when you move it or shift it between your fingers
- Swelling or stiffness in the area
- Pain, especially when twisting or rotating your knee, squatting or lifting
- Difficulty straightening your knee fully or pain when bending
- Feeling as though your knee is locked in place when you try to move it, or when it’s painful to move smoothly
What Treatment Options are Available?
After getting a positive diagnosis, most doctors recommend that you stay off the injured knee and apply ice to lower swelling. Pain medication and pills that reduce swelling may also be recommended, though if the patient is still feeling pain after the rest period, surgery may be advised.
