CA
A 24-year-old member asked:
can i treat a meniscus/knee injury without surgery?
4 doctor answers • 8 doctors weighed in
Dr. Tandy Freeman answered
Orthopedic Surgery 37 years experience
Sometimes: Some meniscal tears become asymptomatic without surgery. Generally, such tears occur in patients over the age of 30 and are not associated with trauma as they result from degenerative changes in the meniscus (think: gray hair or wrinkle). Tears in young people, associated with ligament injuries, and with symptoms (swelling, locking, instability, pain) lasting more than 6 weeks require surgery.
6356 viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Thomas Deberardino answered
Orthopedic Surgery 32 years experience
Yes, possibly: Not all meniscus tears are the same, and asymptomatic tears do not require surgery. If a tear continues to be bothersome, blocks motion or significantly inhibits normal activities of daily living despite an adequate course of nonoperative management (rest, ice, elevation, and a graduated physical therapy program), then arthroscopy to repair or debride the tear becomes warranted.
6152 viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Zubin Khubchandani answered
Orthopedic Surgery 25 years experience
Therapy: If you have a meniscus tear that is amenable to repair, i suggest surgery because of your young age. If repair is not an option, then nsaids, ice, therapy.
4393 viewsAnswered >2 years ago
Dr. Bernard Bach Jr answered
Orthopedic Surgery 42 years experience
Usually not.: If you have a meniscus tear that is symptomatic, you will most likely require arthroscopic surgery.
2857 viewsReviewed >2 years ago
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Last updated Apr 9, 2018
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