Understanding a Torn Meniscus
A torn meniscus is an injury that can occur when the knee joint twists or rotates excessively while supporting a significant amount of body weight. Meniscal tears are common among those who participate in sports in Jackson, Wyoming, that involve sudden turns and stops, such as skiing, basketball, soccer, and tennis. However, this type of injury is not limited to athletes—it can also occur during everyday activities, such as squatting or getting in and out of a car.
A torn meniscus can cause pain, inflammation, weakness, instability, or locking in the affected knee. Prompt torn meniscus treatment can help relieve discomfort, restore mobility, and get you back to the activities you enjoy. At Teton Orthopaedics, our board-certified, fellowship-trained knee specialists provide personalized care for patients of all ages and activity levels.
Conservative Torn Meniscus Treatment Options
In many cases, surgery is not the first step. The meniscus serves as an important cushion between the thigh bone (femur) and shin bone (tibia), helping absorb shock and distribute weight throughout the knee joint. Whenever possible, our specialists begin torn meniscus treatment with conservative therapies designed to reduce pain and improve function.
These treatment options may include:
- Physical therapy
- Heat and ice applications
- Over-the-counter or prescription pain relievers and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Hyaluronic acid injections
- Ultrasound therapy
When Is Surgery Recommended?
If a thorough evaluation shows that surgery offers the best opportunity to restore knee stability and function, our specialists may recommend minimally invasive arthroscopic knee surgery. We’ll explain the procedure, expected recovery, and whether it’s the right option for your condition. In addition to meniscus repair, our surgeons also perform advanced knee procedures, including ACL reconstruction and knee replacement surgery.
Schedule an Appointment
As the largest and most well-known private orthopaedic practice in the Jackson, WY area, Teton Orthopaedics has earned a reputation for providing exceptional patient care using advanced treatment techniques. If you’re experiencing knee pain or believe you may have a torn meniscus, contact us today to learn more about torn meniscus treatment and schedule an appointment with an experienced knee specialist.
Start Your Recovery Today
Don’t let pain or limited mobility hold you back. Our specialists provide expert diagnosis, surgical and non-surgical solutions, and personalized treatment plans designed to get you moving faster and stronger again.