Meniscus Tear Treatment in Metro Atlanta
Knee Pain
A meniscus tear is a common knee injury that can cause pain, swelling, stiffness, and difficulty moving the knee normally. The meniscus is cartilage within the knee that helps cushion the joint and absorb stress during movement. A tear can occur during sports, exercise, work, or everyday activities and may make walking, bending, or returning to your normal routine difficult.
At Georgia Bone & Joint, our orthopedic knee specialists diagnose and treat meniscus tears for patients throughout Metro Atlanta. Treatment is personalized based on the type and severity of the injury, your symptoms, and your activity goals.
What Causes a Torn Meniscus?
Meniscus tears commonly occur when the knee twists or rotates while the foot is planted. Athletes may experience a torn meniscus while running, changing direction, pivoting, or making sudden movements. Meniscus injuries can also develop as cartilage changes and becomes more vulnerable to injury over time.
Common Meniscus Tear Symptoms
Symptoms can vary depending on the location and severity of the tear. Common signs of a meniscus injury may include:
- Knee pain or tenderness
- Swelling and stiffness
- Difficulty bending or straightening the knee
- Popping or catching sensations
- Limited range of motion
- Difficulty walking comfortably
- Feeling as though the knee may give out
Meniscus Tear Treatment
Not every torn meniscus requires surgery. Treatment may include rest and activity modifications, medications, physical therapy, or other conservative treatments. When symptoms persist or the injury is more severe, an orthopedic specialist may recommend knee arthroscopy or another surgical treatment.
Georgia Bone & Joint offers both non-surgical and surgical knee treatment options based on each patient’s individual needs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Meniscus Tears
How do I know if I have a torn meniscus?
Knee pain, swelling, stiffness, catching, popping, or difficulty fully moving the knee can be signs of a meniscus tear. Because these symptoms can occur with other knee injuries or with arthritis, an orthopedic evaluation can help identify the cause.
Can you still walk with a torn meniscus?
Some people can continue walking after a meniscus injury, particularly with a smaller tear. However, walking may become painful or uncomfortable, and the knee may feel unstable or difficult to move.
Can a meniscus tear heal without surgery?
Some meniscus injuries may be managed with non-surgical treatment. Physical therapy, medications, rest, and activity modifications may help reduce symptoms. Treatment depends on factors such as the location and severity of the tear.
When does a meniscus tear require surgery?
Surgery may be considered when symptoms continue despite conservative treatment or when the tear significantly affects knee function. Knee arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that may be used to treat certain meniscus injuries.
Should I see an orthopedic doctor for a meniscus tear?
Consider an orthopedic evaluation if knee pain or swelling persists, you cannot comfortably bend or straighten your knee, the knee repeatedly catches or gives out, or symptoms interfere with normal activities.
Where can I find meniscus tear treatment in Metro Atlanta?
Georgia Bone & Joint provides orthopedic knee care for patients throughout Metro Atlanta, with locations in Fayetteville, LaGrange, Newnan, and Stockbridge. Our knee specialists provide personalized diagnosis and treatment to help patients restore mobility and return to the activities they enjoy.
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