Meniscus Injury Treatment in Frisco, Denton, and Plano, TX

A meniscus tear refers to an injury that occurs to the specialized cartilage pads located between the thigh bone (femur) and the lower leg bone (tibia), serving as protective cushions for the knee joint. The knee consists of two menisci: the medial meniscus positioned on the inner side of the knee, and the lateral meniscus located on the outer side.
 
Most frequently, meniscus tears happen when an individual forcefully makes a twisting motion with their feet planted. This twisting motion puts significant stress on the menisci, leading to their tearing. 
 
In some cases, the menisci can develop an abnormal shape resembling a block or a disk, known as a discoid meniscus. Discoid meniscus is more prone to tearing and often manifests during childhood.

The location and size of a meniscus tear determine the symptoms experienced, including pain, and whether there are additional injuries. Pain can also result from swelling and damage to the surrounding tissues.
 
In the case of small tears, initial pain may be minimal or absent. Swelling typically develops gradually over a couple of days. Walking is usually possible with slight discomfort, although pain intensifies when squatting, lifting, or getting up from a seated position. While these symptoms tend to subside, bending or twisting the knee may still cause pain.
 
In moderate tears, pain is commonly felt at the side or center of the knee, depending on the tear’s location. Walking is usually feasible, although swelling increases gradually over a few days, causing stiffness and limiting the range of motion. 
 
Twisting or squatting often triggers sharp pain. Symptoms may improve temporarily but can reoccur with overuse or activities involving twisting. If left untreated, the pain may come and go for several years.
 
Larger tears tend to result in more pronounced pain, immediate swelling, and stiffness. Fragments of the torn meniscus may float into the joint space, causing sensations of catching, popping, or locking of the knee. Straightening the knee may become difficult. 
 
If other injuries, particularly torn ligaments, accompany the meniscus tear, pain and swelling may intensify. The knee may feel unstable, and walking can become challenging.

Symptoms of a meniscus strain closely resemble those of a meniscus tear. These symptoms typically involve knee pain, swelling, and stiffness. In more severe cases, you may experience difficulty moving your knee and hear popping sounds. 
 
The intensity of your symptoms can indicate the severity of the injury, with more pronounced symptoms suggesting a tear rather than a strain. To accurately diagnose your condition, our doctors will perform a thorough physical examination and may suggest X-rays or an MRI scan. These diagnostic tests can provide further insights into the extent and nature of your injury.

A meniscus injury can be identified through three primary signs. Firstly, individuals may experience persistent knee pain, particularly on the inner or outer side of the knee, depending on the location of the injury. 
 
This pain can range from mild discomfort to sharp, localized pain, making it difficult to bear weight or engage in activities that involve bending or twisting the knee. Secondly, swelling in the affected knee is a common indication of a meniscus injury. 
 
The knee may become visibly swollen and feel tender to the touch, causing stiffness and a limited range of motion. Lastly, individuals with a meniscus injury may notice a popping or clicking sensation in the knee joint during movement. This can be accompanied by a feeling of the knee catching or locking in certain positions. It is important to note that these signs may vary in intensity depending on the severity of the injury. 

Meniscus tears that are left unattended may enlarge and develop problems such as arthritis. Meniscus injury treatment is available at Pain Specialists of Frisco. For more information, contact us today or schedule an appointment online. We have convenient locations in Frisco, TX, and Denton, TX. We serve patients from Frisco TX, Denton TX, McKinney TX, Plano TX, Carrollton TX, Flower Mound TX, Lewisville TX, Allen TX, Aubrey TX, and surrounding areas.