Which meniscus tear is worse

Read on for a break down of the most common types of meniscus tears. An intrasubstance tear, otherwise known as an incomplete tear, is very common. In fact, many people may have a tear in a portion of the meniscus and not even realize it. These early degenerative tears can be visualized on an MRI magnetic resonance imaging to help confirm the exam findings and diagnosis. Sometimes these degenerative changes can be treated conservatively with rest, NSAIDs, Injections and physical therapy.

If these treatments fail, then surgery is in the future. Typically a menisectomy is performed or cleaning of the torn meniscus tissue. A radial tear is the most common type of meniscus tear that we see. These types of tears are found in the avascular area of the meniscus, which means there is no blood flowing to this area.

In this case, surgery is almost always needed to remove the damaged part of the tissue and allow the body to heal. Recovery is normally about 3 months. A horizontal tear in the meniscus is actually one of the most treatable types of meniscal tears. It is a tear that runs horizontally along the circumferential fibers of the meniscus. A bucket handle tear is similar to a horizontal tear, but this type of tear involves a larger portion of the meniscus. The knee becomes stuck, and the torn part of the meniscus blocks the normal motion of the knee.

This type of tear often requires urgent surgery in order to restore the ability of the knee to bend. Any type of forceful twisting of the knee can cause the meniscus to tear. Athletes frequently incur meniscus tears when playing sports, but simple activities like kneeling awkwardly, lifting a heavy object, or performing squat exercises can cause a tear in the meniscus. The doctors at the Orthopaedic Associates of Central Maryland are here to repair your knee problems, hip pain, and arthritis issues so you can get back to enjoying life.

If you prefer, you can also fill out our appointment request form online now. Arthroscopic meniscus repairs typically takes about 40 minutes. Usually you will be able to leave the hospital the same day. Arthroscopic partial meniscectomy — The goal of this surgery is to remove a small piece of the torn meniscus in order to get the knee functioning normally. Arthroscopic total meniscectomy — Occasionally, a large tear of the outer meniscus can best be treated by arthroscopic total meniscectomy, a procedure in which the entire meniscus is removed.

Key points A meniscus tear is an injury to one of the bands of rubbery cartilage that act as shock absorbers for the knee. Depending on the severity of the injury, surgical repair may or may not be needed. Next steps Tips to help you get the most from a visit to your healthcare provider: Know the reason for your visit and what you want to happen. Before your visit, write down questions you want answered. Bring someone with you to help you ask questions and remember what your provider tells you.

At the visit, write down the name of a new diagnosis, and any new medicines, treatments, or tests. Also write down any new instructions your provider gives you. Know why a new medicine or treatment is prescribed, and how it will help you. Also know what the side effects are.

Ask if your condition can be treated in other ways. Know why a test or procedure is recommended and what the results could mean. Know what to expect if you do not take the medicine or have the test or procedure. If you have a follow-up appointment, write down the date, time, and purpose for that visit.

Know how you can contact your provider if you have questions. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. The meniscus is a rubbery disc that cushions all of these bones and keeps them from rubbing against each other. The disc, which is split into two sections called menisci, also helps distribute weight and pressure across the knee. You could injure your meniscus while playing sports, such as football, soccer, or baseball.

You could also injure your meniscus off the field by lifting heavy boxes or slipping on a wet floor. Like many parts of the body, the meniscus can wear down with age. Tears are more common among men and women over age There are generally three types of meniscus injuries , which are categorized by the extent of the tear:.

These injuries cause minor discomfort and can heal with rest. You should give your meniscus weeks to completely heal before returning to exercise. These tears are more painful, with pain possible on both the side and center of the knee.