You say the meniscus isn't regenerative, yet mine healed up. It does heal very slowly though. It took me 6 months and I had pain, stiffness and fluid buildup for the first 2 months and I could still feel the meniscus catching as I was walking for the next 4 months. I'm assuming it was a moderate size tear for it to be catching in my joint like that. I hope my story provides words of comfort to those suffering from meniscus tears. The medical community will tell you that the body is weak and that you need their intervention to get better. Don't listen to them. Let your body heal.
FIrst was the effusion and where it really hurt sometimes when I extended it. That lasted 2 months. Then 2-4 months it felt like something was moving in there when i walked. It still hurt sometimes and was sensitive around my kneecap when I put pressure on it for almost 2 years and also when I wound put pressure on my knee when I was doing things like walking upstairs on that knee. It's still not completely back to normal yet. When I walk it's sometimes achy when I extend my knee and when I'm sitting and then extend it sometimes it clicks. Maybe it'll never go completely back to normal, but I'd never have surgery on now.
I did see an orthopedic surgeon about 8 months ago and he said my cartilage on the back of my left knee doesn't look good. I can only flex my leg right back 85 percent. My right leg is normal and can flex it back so my right foot is touching the buttocks. When I sit down for long periods and get up it sometimes gets achy and numb. Walking for long periods (a hour plus) makes it sore and achy. It hasn't really affected the quality of my life though it's just that I enjoy jogging but can't do that anymore. I recently bought a bicycle and I am enjoying that. I must admit I have been a bit slack with the exercises I am supposed to do to help my cartilage heal. I will work on that harder and give it more time to heal.
Thanks so much! My doctor rushed me through and sent me to get an MRI, I'm seeing him again tomorrow and this info really equips me well to make my next decision. Much, much appreciated!
Great question Rafael ... That's why I always impress upon my students and residents to treat the patients and not their MRI. Many people are walking around with meniscus tears and do not even know it. Most orthopedists would agree.. and the scientific literature supports this. If you are comfortable, then you can delay the surgery. The tears do not necessarily heal.. they simply stop hurting. Yes, the tear can become larger... but this is rare. Good Luck.
I had a menisectomy when I was 19yrs old. The result was abysmal. The concept of a menisectomy is nonsense. Cutting a a thick meniscus which is a shock absorber, lubricant and most importantly creates a snug fit between the femur and tibia is nonsense, it can't and does not work. The only thing healthy after a menisectomy is the surgeons bank balance
Thank you for the video. I just got my MRI report and I got most of the answers from your video. I just searched medial meniscus and the first video was yours and it reflects my report.
Hi Richard ... good question! Many people with a meniscus tear have very few symptoms and can put off surgery until their situation changes. Whether or not surgery is "necessary" depends on many variables... and one of them is your quality of life. I hope this helps! Good Luck!
Dr. Luks. Thanks for your reply and follow up. I am happy to say the swelling has gone down and the knee is feeling almost normal. I'm working on strength around the knee and generally feeling great! I very much appreciate your feed back. Joel
will continued cortisone shots to my knees cause further damage? I already have "moderate OA" in my left knee and a tear in my right.. but right now I have a subluxing right ulnar never that DOES need repair. Had severe right elbow pain and swelling for 8 months and nothing helped :(
After a life time of diagnosed with Rheumatoid arthritis, I got cured with the help of Dr Oyalo remedy whom I met on TH-cam. It has wonderful taking his herbs as there was improvement during the process which I felt and after taking his herbal dosage I was completely cured and till now I’m free. Im glad to share this and you can get his herbs too. 🙏
Thanks for a great short video. I injured my left knee medial meniscus and was told I should be OK with physical therapy. I cannot wait to get back to soccer but I will definitely remember and respect my age (being a good soccer player tends to make me be rough on my body). Thanks again.
Finally, some one who is not "surgery" happy!! I am a yoga teacher. My medial meniscus was totally removed, authorized by my Mom when I was very young. It's great to find a professional who is encouraging to give the body the chance to heal -at least "fix" it's injuries. My knee has been bothering me lately, (more than 40 years after the surgery). The first Dr. I saw last mnth immediately suggested Knee replacement. When I almost laughted at him, he went on to push injections.Sorry PT IS WORKING
MCL injuries can take months to not only heal... but to feel better. By far, MCL injuries are the most painful ligament injury around the knee. Good luck!
great video! I am a 3rd year medical student and was trying to figure out a practice shelf question for my surgery rotation. The clinical vignette you described was spot on. Thanks!
I need to find a doctor like you. I went to UM's Sports Clinic thinking they would handle my knee injury professionally, wrong. The cookie cutter doc came in and out in less than 5 minutes recommended an MRI. I went to do the MRI but putting my knee straight created an onset of progressively worsening pain. The clerk for the doc told me to reschedule, I told her the pain was unbearable, and I'll need some form of pain killer to finish, she said she'll call me back. Day later she called and said I was claustrophobic, I restrained from cursing her out, but didn't understand how someone can come to think that a grown man would be afraid to have his leg inside a giant donut. I'm going to a different hospital.
excellent question... the meniscus has no nerve supply. So the pain associated with a menscus tear is due to irritation of the structures around the meniscus. So, if the tear is small and doesn't move around it will not irritate the structures around it... and you will not have much pain.
Jay... It's good that your surgeon repaired your meniscus. Removing it would have put you at risk of developing pain and significant degeneration. It's going to take a number of weeks/months to heal and recover... time well spent to save your knee for years to come. Good Luck! HJL
My mom has bad knees. She doesn't know what the problem is so she tried to exercise to strengthen her knees, but after a mile of walking she is in too much pain to continue. What types of exercises should she do for strength?
Thank you, this answered most of my questions and was DEAD on with what is happening with my Left knee. MRI showed the horizontal cleaver tear... pain, turning, STAIRS, giving way a bit. I see the specialist monday. happy that it can be fixed and I can once again be active. People know when I am not walking they know it hurts. I function but added exercise NO NO. and after losing over 100 pounds and with about a 100 to still lose. I need to be active, Thank you again!
If you knee no longer has an ACL then turning, pivoting and twisting are testing the limits of the knee. Each time you perform those motions, you are pushing the meniscal cartilage and the other structures of the knee to the max... sometimes that will result in tears of the cartilage or wearing away of the cartilage
Hello Dr.Luks, My MRI reports showed an oblique medial meniscus tear. I am going to visit an orthopedic surgeon in the first week of April to discuss my options. In your opinion, what exercises are good to keep active and not strenuate the knee too much. Also would arthroscopic surgery be avoidable? Thanks for your time. Regards from Toronto, Canada.
I have meniscus tear. fairly servere.the dotor has said so, everything you have explained points to this! I can't stand up on the leg as the knee will not support my weight without failing. I did this dirt biking and was rather abrupt as I thought I snapped my leg at first! he has told me to remain off that leg for six weeks and then look into physio. I would like as much advice I can find to help heal this without having a surgery. any suggestion you have I would love to hear them! thank-you!
True Simon... flap tears can be a problem... but luckily very few meniscus tears present as flap tears. The most common type of tear is degenerative fraying. Meniscus tears also behave quite differently depending on age. Young folks tend to get more flap or bucket handle tears than people over 50. So the treatment options can vary.
Thanks for the video. I am 51, play ice hockey, soccer, mountain unicycle and bicycle commute. I think I have a medial meniscus issue. I have mild to moderate pain but I think I will give it a few more weeks to see if it gets better on its own before seeking professional help.
Hi Derrick.. If you have a locked knee where you can not extend it.. there is a high likelihood that this is what we refer to as a "bucket-handle" tear of a meniscus. Best to be evaluated and examined sooner rather than later. Good Luck!
Why are they so common? Because they make a lot of money for surgeons who prey mainly on young people/athletes who dont know better Is surgery always necessary? It does not work, hopefully that answers the question
Hey David... Thanks for stopping by... Following that type of injury a meniscus or cartilage injury would be anticipated more so than a ligament injury... but that's what a physical exam will tell you :-)! Good luck --- Feel free to stop back after your visit.
So clear and reassuring! Having just got MRI results that show a horizontal radial tear of the body of the lateral meniscus with associated meniscus cyst, which explains the problems of the last several years, especially when dancing! I shall listen carefully to all advice I'm given and if it does mean having an arthroscopic meniscus procedure I really hope I can hit the Zumba floor again and not literally! Thanks you so much for this video.
I had am MRI and it shows a lateral meniscus tear. I don't recall a pop or sharp pain. This happened in the beginning of december. My left knee started swelling, got really stiff and couldn't bend it or straightened it. I am very active and sprint and do weight lifting. I stopped squats, running, lunges, and continued to work upper body and did rowing machine. That made my knee swell again and got stiff. It seems like anytime i try to go back to my regular routine my knee swells up stiffness returns and can't even walk. what exercises can i continue to do while i heal? Should i use crutches? What type of knee brace shoukd i wear? How long do these lateral tears take to heal? I don't want to have surgery but how do i know if i am a good candidate? Please help. Your video is probably the most informative non BS found in TH-cam
thank you for your info My MRI says I have Medical compartmental osteoarthritic degenerative changes. Complex tear of the body and posterior horn of the medial meniscus. Chronic full thickness tear of the superior half of the anterior cruciate ligament. Joint effusion. Changes of chondromalacia. I am 57 and have set tile for years. I don't know what to do what do you suggest
Very informative, my doctor told me yesterday that I have a tear. But because I have Arthritis in that new he says, that it would be a 60/60 chance that surgery would make a difference. So I was referred to physical therapy. No surgery for now. However, I still have lots of questions and concerns.
THAT WAS A GOOD SECOND OPIONION YOU SAVED ME TIME/MONEY AND pain. good talk at firs i thought you were going to be uber boring and after a minute i felt you talking to me. Good job......
Robert... thanks for reaching out. IF you have knee pain which is causing a feeling like the knee wants to give way then an MRI might be a good idea. In patients with minimal pain, an MRI might not be necessary... but if you have instability then you may injure yourself one day and it is worth looking into a little deeper. Good Luck!
Stupid advice. You do not need an MRI, you do not need surgery, you need to rehabiltate yourself and give yourself time to heal. These fucker surgeons don't give a damn about your health
Thankyou for this great video. I had 2 MRI scans plus an X-Ray & for a year have had a medial miniscus tear in my left knee. What is your personal opinion on a complex tear, part radial & part horizontal leading from the horn to the root with a 1x1/2 inch cyst on the inside of the knee? This cyst has become smaller & I continue to lead an active life including walking to work (1/2 an hour each way, 4 times a week) & cycling activities ( shopping & on racing bikes). I am still in the care of a consultant but due to Covid have yet to see him in person.
Wonderful video.I am Endocrinologist 63 yr old.I fell fell down on rt side recently & sustained fracture rt wrist.MRI of rt Knee showed oblique horizontal tear of the posterior horn of the medial meniscus communicates with superior articular surface. I am biker,runner & play tennis.I am asymptomatic.My Orthopod suggested Arthoplasty to repair tear to prevent further degeneration.I would like to have your opinion.
I agree with your assesment... it does not sound like a classic case of a meniscus tear. Runners knee is the more likely issue... but only a good exam by an Sports doc and perhaps an MRI can tell you for sure.
Hello Dr. Luks! I noticed you didn’t discuss root tears. I imagine they always require surgery especially in order to avoid bone necrosis? Is no weight bearing required for 4 weeks post surgery? I’m an active healthy 64 year old woman and tore my meniscus playing tennis. Any input you can give is greatly appreciated! 💙🎾
Should I challenge my MD's opinion - would arthroscopy help? Thx My lateral meniscal tear of 20 yrs is now compounded by aging (66yrs) & years of karate. MRI shows early osteoarth. MD is reluctant to do any procedure as it may "exacerbate" the arthritis - rec. lubricant injs which have helped + Aleve. Still cannot flex knee & have "snapping" over lat condyle + Pain & continued swelling.
Hi, I am 55 yrs old, felt pain in my knee since August 2013. Had Cortizone shot October 2013, pain came back December 2013. Had MRI done Feb. 2014 and it shows: complex tear of the posterior horn of the medial meniscus with intercondylar fragment, small Bakers cyst, condromalacia Patellae grade II/III., Lateral Patellar Tilt . My doctor recommends surgery for the tear. I would like to get your opinion please. Thank you.
Thanks for the great information! What would you suggest be the best recovery methods if you recently agitated or frayed your meniscus. The PT doesn't believe mine is torn.
Hi Dr Luks, injured my knee while carrying a heavy crate about 6 weeks ago. I didn't know till last weekwhat the problem was. My orthro wanted to book me for surgerythe next day. He only spent about 10 minutes checking out my knee. I have instability and a click in my knee. Do you think a second opinion and an MRI is necessary or should I get the surgery as soon as possible
Thanks for the video I have a meniscus tear in my right now I got it from football at the age of 25 and it's been a year or more now, I continued football and squating and many activities after which gave me little pain however recently my side of the knee where the tear is I feel a bump in the bone and it's always hurting what sign may this be
Good day Sir.Just got may MRI result and diagnosed with an oblique tear on my posterior medial meniscus(left knee).But I can still managed to play basketball twice a week having a little pain after the game (scale of 2 out of 10 pain) with a knee support.And apart from that I can still do wall squat, leg extensions and leg curls with a minimal weight and do a 20-30 min jogging with a scale of 2 out of 10 pain.But my question is do I need a surgery for this tear??Hope to hear it from you soon.tnx
Hello! Im having pain in my knee (over 2months) & after 5doctor's appointments I have NO answers. No injury/damage done & pain came out of nowhere. The xrays&MRI show nothing. Most recent orthopedic surgeon I saw recommended arthroscopic surgery even though he didn't necessarily see any damage to the meniscus. I don't want to proceed with the surgery if there is a possibility that there is no tear, but can it give me answers or relief? What else can it be? What should I do about the surgery?
Dr.Luks,I had a knee sprain a month ago,MRI says: ACL contusion, grade l degeneration of posterior horn & medial meniscus & mild knee joint effusion with small baker cyst formation.As per the doctor's advice I have been using a knee brace for a week with crutches.I feel shocking pain if I move my knee with burning sensation all over ,if I stand I feel all blood going down to my foot, it turns to dark red and veins show in seconds! Do I need physical therapy & How long it may take to heal ?
Hey Doc, just found your videos..great stuff very informative. Thanks. 2 weeks ago, playing basketball, heard a snap, then I turned and heard another click..that was it..left knee in so much pain. Could not walk, emergency room.. 4 days on crutches and difeene meds and I could put weight on it. It’s feeling better but, it’s feels very weak when I do something strenuous. Back to Doctors next week for Physical therapy. I swear I would never wish the pain I had on anybody..it was terrible.. I should have listened to my wife, she said I was to old 50..to be playing basketball with high school kids. On a side not..”why are women always right?? Anyway great videos Thanks again. Love the accent.. I miss Americans. Back in Ireland now.. Have a good one.
Hello Mr. Luks, I have had arthroscopic surgery (5/23/13). I have been using an ice wrap on the knee. I still seem to have some swelling around top upper knee and some numbness around the knee where the incisions are. Not much pain, but not full comfort either. The swelling concerns me, right knee looks larger than the left (good knee). Is it to be expected this could be the new norm? Also, knee and leg strength is much diminished, do you have suggestions for a strengthening program? Thanks
I am in the us army. Just took a PT test. I had ran about 1/2 mile when it felt like my left knee just gave way. With much pain and effort I finished. I am unable to bend the knee now, way to much pain. The clinic did x-rays and saw nothing, gave me a brace and said it was a meniscus tear to get MRI and surgery. What are your thoughts?
Whether or not a meniscus is going to heal is usually based on where the tear is, the quality of the meniscus tissue and how large the tear is. Some tears heal spontaneously, some require sutures to bring the edges back together.
Hello Dr.Luks, I'm 44 yr old & actively involved in soccer. About 4 weeks back, I twisted by knee while playing & although I could walk (not freely), my knee used to hurt especially while climbing stairs/putting weight on it. I've stopped playing & it's a lot better. I can now climb stairs without much pain. I can also bend my knee freely but the pain is still there especially while getting up from a chair (i have to get up slowly). I am feeling better. do you think I need rest/surgery. Thanks
hi ...i am 40 years of age. I fell down while bowling in a cricket match ..went to visit an orthopedition i was told that i have miniscus tears in both knees so i have to go for surgery. then went for 2nd openion and was told no need for surgery just do physio theray thatn after 6 months if i could not recover i have to go for surgery option . Now its almost 7 months passed .Condition improved but still my heel cant touch my hips. What should i do ???? please can your suggest any option.
This was so so so so helpful to me. I am 35 and have started working out at the gym. the inner part of my knee is sooo tender to even touch. I can't walk down the stairs easily and when I go to stand up for the first time or now walking I am in pain... I also feel like it is going to just give out on me. I really need to work out because it is summer time and I want to lose weight. I can't even do the eliptical which is supposed to be the easiest on the knee.. I am so sad... i
I used this McDavid brace when I first hurt mine and it worked real well (basketball related injury as well) www.mcdavidusa.com/Product/4195R/MCDAVID_Level_2_Knee_Support_adjustable_cross_straps.aspx
please Dr Howard advise me . i have torn in posterior horn of medial meniscus since 4 years just three times locking happened and no swelling but always stiff in back of knee and pain after hard activities . the question does the surgery to trim the torn and shape it helps to treat the stiff and pain or just treat the locking ??? i visited 4 doctors but dont have clear answers
Diagnosed with medial meniscus tear in 2000, I ended up having a steroid injection, pain went away, and I have been quite active since. Then in Feb 2013 pain came back after a brisk walk even though I had been walking daily for years. I have been unable to walk for exercise since Feb, pain varies on a daily basis depending on what I did the day before. I have to take an airplane trip in 2 weeks & I am in dread of long airport walks.If no shot, is it damaging to walk with the pain? 61 yo, thanx
I recently had Arthroscopy for a pain at the back of my right knee. The pain was sharp usually after walking 100 m. When I was 12 had my knee locking when playing soccer but a few years later the problem disappeared. Now I am 63. My Dr recommended surgery. On surgery Dr found tears of the medial and the lateral meniscus and performed partial medial meniscectomy and repair on the lateral meniscus. Now after watching this video I said myself that probably I made a mistake by getting the scope. I did not report any locking or swelling. Now I am on my recovering time. Could you please give me your opinion on this?
Great video, I'm wondering about my knee. Feels very loose in the middle of my knee, especially when my leg is completely straight bearing all my weight. Feels tender on the outside of my knee as well, and just general instability. Does this sound like meniscal problems or something else?
Tore my left miniscus in November and my right miniscus in February. Both times they healed in about 2 months. X-rays revealed miniscus degeneration and arthritis. I can walk slowly without pain so I'm puting off any surgery for now. If the use of stem cells are legalized in the future would stem cell injections regenerate the miniscus?
Thanks for your insights :). I was kind of hoping it would be a ligament that could be fixed and not the meniscus or cartilage. I will find out for sure though next month. In the mean time, do you think low impact training on a cross trainer is permissible (to maintain fitness), if there's no discomfort or pain? Or am I risking further damage to the cartilage/meniscus (if I'v damaged them)? Swimming is something I could do but it's much more convenient to use a cross-trainer for me currently.
Felicity the problem is that a lot of the tissue in the knees does NOT get any blood flow, therefor does NOT regenerate. Once it is worn out, it is done. In many cases it needs to be removed or will cause problems. I lived 6 years with flap meniscus tears and it was NOT comfortable. She really needs an MRI to see what is going on. You cannot simply "strengthen" or "repair" it with exercise - it many cases only wears out more and more.
SirJared :-), No one can truly say if tears will become larger or not. There are few if any good studies which followed people with tears and repeated their MRI to see if tears grew in size --- or even diminished in size. Some tears which we know to be repairable (with sutures) we will recommend surgery so that you do not lose any meniscus... however, if your tear will require a removal of the torn piece and you have few if any issues with your knee --- then think twice b4 having surgery.
If you are an athlete and have a small medial meniscus tear, is it likely to get worse if you continue playing? Is it better to get it taken care of early or is it ok to hold out?
This could be related to the knee and the menisci .. or a rare form of popping that causes the pain to radiate... it's something we refer to as snapping medial hamstrings.
Way to replace meniscus pad? i step downstairs with rt leg fall thru on left knee. going up like a push/jump up then normal step with good knee.Hides a little the fact i cant climb stairs as normal. thigh smaller over the years. torn meniscus was removed at in h.s. football. it feels like it would burst sideways if i jumped or tried to run. 20 minute walk&im sore a day. ten-fifteen minutes walk ok.Cant balance n rockey stream.Only inside left weak.my only option partial knee replacement?
Dr great vid! Although I do have a question. I tore my acl about 15yrs ago while wrestling in hs. Never had surgery just let it heal on its own and since then I've had odd injuries to t he same knee off and on while doing physical activities. Now at times when my knee twists or turns a certain way I feel like it gives out for a split second a bit of a discomfort but not pain then it will pop quit loud. Any suggestions on how to strengthen or repair this. Is surgery needed? Is this cosidered a
Bro i have low grade tear in acl and horizontal medial tear in menicus tear, should i do these excercises as my doc advised me to take injections of striod
Ricky ... There are many different structures you could have injured. The kneecap - or patella- is one of them. If you feel the patella is no longer centered properly on the knee it would be worth it to have this evaluated. Good luck!
Thank you for this information, I just found out mine is tore on both sides of the right knee. I was told I needed surgery but today I ran into a trainer who is a good friend. He said build up the muscles around it, but guess no more racquetball. Do you recommend joint medicine such as inflamma less?
thanks dr howard , please advise me i feel always stiffness at the baaack of knee and the upper calf and sometimes cant extend my leg this happend to me just 3 times at the last 4 years , i had mri shows meniscus tear torn and minimal synovial effusion . doctor said you need remove the torn not repair.now i just wondering i dont have pain in sides or front of knee and noo swelling just stiffness in the back of knee and pain if i make alot of effort and this upset me do i need surgery or what
i believe i have something like this, puffy inflamation on the inner part of my knee, really noticable the last 3 or 4 months, twisted my knee out Jan 2012. It was after i pulled the cap, ( my caps have allways been floaty, and i showed my girlfriend and it was the last time i ever tried to move the cap.) I think i might try acupuncture, because of no health insurance and have to wait about a month before first available check up, but THANKYOU SO MUCH!! This vid really helped. Any Advice?
Hi Dr. I have an issue with my knee. About 3 months ago I was told that I had a displaced knee cap. I could not get down on or bend my knee. I had physical therapy to strengthen the muscles around my knee. Afterwards the pain was gone. It's been a month since I finished. I exercise to strengthen the muscles. Now I have pain on the inner side of my left knee. I can bend it and squat but when I walk for long periods it hurts bad in one small spot. It's not as painful if I jog. Any suggestions
You say the meniscus isn't regenerative, yet mine healed up. It does heal very slowly though. It took me 6 months and I had pain, stiffness and fluid buildup for the first 2 months and I could still feel the meniscus catching as I was walking for the next 4 months. I'm assuming it was a moderate size tear for it to be catching in my joint like that.
I hope my story provides words of comfort to those suffering from meniscus tears. The medical community will tell you that the body is weak and that you need their intervention to get better. Don't listen to them. Let your body heal.
What type of tear did you have
What steps did you take in the healing process?
FIrst was the effusion and where it really hurt sometimes when I extended it. That lasted 2 months. Then 2-4 months it felt like something was moving in there when i walked. It still hurt sometimes and was sensitive around my kneecap when I put pressure on it for almost 2 years and also when I wound put pressure on my knee when I was doing things like walking upstairs on that knee. It's still not completely back to normal yet. When I walk it's sometimes achy when I extend my knee and when I'm sitting and then extend it sometimes it clicks. Maybe it'll never go completely back to normal, but I'd never have surgery on now.
I did see an orthopedic surgeon about 8 months ago and he said my cartilage on the back of my left knee doesn't look good. I can only flex my leg right back 85 percent. My right leg is normal and can flex it back so my right foot is touching the buttocks. When I sit down for long periods and get up it sometimes gets achy and numb. Walking for long periods (a hour plus) makes it sore and achy. It hasn't really affected the quality of my life though it's just that I enjoy jogging but can't do that anymore. I recently bought a bicycle and I am enjoying that. I must admit I have been a bit slack with the exercises I am supposed to do to help my cartilage heal. I will work on that harder and give it more time to heal.
You misunderstood his point. What hes saying about 'being regenerative' is that itll never go back to 100% , which is what you said.
Thanks so much! My doctor rushed me through and sent me to get an MRI, I'm seeing him again tomorrow and this info really equips me well to make my next decision. Much, much appreciated!
Great question Rafael ... That's why I always impress upon my students and residents to treat the patients and not their MRI. Many people are walking around with meniscus tears and do not even know it. Most orthopedists would agree.. and the scientific literature supports this. If you are comfortable, then you can delay the surgery. The tears do not necessarily heal.. they simply stop hurting. Yes, the tear can become larger... but this is rare. Good Luck.
I had a menisectomy when I was 19yrs old. The result was abysmal. The concept of a menisectomy is nonsense. Cutting a a thick meniscus which is a shock absorber, lubricant and most importantly creates a snug fit between the femur and tibia is nonsense, it can't and does not work. The only thing healthy after a menisectomy is the surgeons bank balance
Excellent video! Calm, clear succinct and thorough description of each type of tear, and the causes. Thanks
Thank you for the video. I just got my MRI report and I got most of the answers from your video. I just searched medial meniscus and the first video was yours and it reflects my report.
:-) thank you!
Hi Richard ... good question! Many people with a meniscus tear have very few symptoms and can put off surgery until their situation changes. Whether or not surgery is "necessary" depends on many variables... and one of them is your quality of life.
I hope this helps!
Good Luck!
Dr. Luks. Thanks for your reply and follow up. I am happy to say the swelling has gone down and the knee is feeling almost normal. I'm working on strength around the knee and generally feeling great!
I very much appreciate your feed back.
Joel
standard strengthening exercises typically work well. Quad, hamstring exercises, while avoiding deep knee flexion and turning and twisting.
Good luck!
Thank you for such a complete and informative explanation of a meniscal tear. You have helped a lot!
you are welcome! Thanks for he kind comments!
will continued cortisone shots to my knees cause further damage? I already have "moderate OA" in my left knee and a tear in my right.. but right now I have a subluxing right ulnar never that DOES need repair. Had severe right elbow pain and swelling for 8 months and nothing helped :(
grettagrids
+grettagrids- YES! Steroid injections do break down the cartilage.
After a life time of diagnosed with Rheumatoid arthritis, I got cured with the help of Dr Oyalo remedy whom I met on TH-cam. It has wonderful taking his herbs as there was improvement during the process which I felt and after taking his herbal dosage I was completely cured and till now I’m free. Im glad to share this and you can get his herbs too. 🙏
thank you. this is very informative and helpful for us active folks on the 40 and 50 side of life
Thanks for a great short video. I injured my left knee medial meniscus and was told I should be OK with physical therapy. I cannot wait to get back to soccer but I will definitely remember and respect my age (being a good soccer player tends to make me be rough on my body). Thanks again.
Finally, some one who is not "surgery" happy!! I am a yoga teacher. My medial meniscus was totally removed, authorized by my Mom when I was very young. It's great to find a professional who is encouraging to give the body the chance to heal -at least "fix" it's injuries. My knee has been bothering me lately, (more than 40 years after the surgery). The first Dr. I saw last mnth immediately suggested Knee replacement. When I almost laughted at him, he went on to push injections.Sorry PT IS WORKING
MCL injuries can take months to not only heal... but to feel better. By far, MCL injuries are the most painful ligament injury around the knee. Good luck!
great video! I am a 3rd year medical student and was trying to figure out a practice shelf question for my surgery rotation. The clinical vignette you described was spot on. Thanks!
thanks!
I need to find a doctor like you. I went to UM's Sports Clinic thinking they would handle my knee injury professionally, wrong.
The cookie cutter doc came in and out in less than 5 minutes recommended an MRI. I went to do the MRI but putting my knee straight created an onset of progressively worsening pain.
The clerk for the doc told me to reschedule, I told her the pain was unbearable, and I'll need some form of pain killer to finish, she said she'll call me back.
Day later she called and said I was claustrophobic, I restrained from cursing her out, but didn't understand how someone can come to think that a grown man would be afraid to have his leg inside a giant donut.
I'm going to a different hospital.
Sounds like the state run system we have is Spain......except you'd wait 2 years to even get an MRI scheduled
Benton n
Thanks for such an informative video, I had a partial medial menisectom debridement 2 weeks ago.
@howardslukemd what should one do if they think they have a torn meniscus but doesn't have insurance? Thanks
A video with self-confidence!!! No better!!! Thank you, Dr. Luks!!!
If you have a meniscus tear look into PRP (Plasma Rich Platelet) or Stem Cell therapy.
Francesca G true... now we now that but this video is old...
excellent question... the meniscus has no nerve supply. So the pain associated with a menscus tear is due to irritation of the structures around the meniscus. So, if the tear is small and doesn't move around it will not irritate the structures around it... and you will not have much pain.
Thanks Doctor Howard this helped me out alot 😊
Jay... It's good that your surgeon repaired your meniscus. Removing it would have put you at risk of developing pain and significant degeneration. It's going to take a number of weeks/months to heal and recover... time well spent to save your knee for years to come.
Good Luck!
HJL
My mom has bad knees. She doesn't know what the problem is so she tried to exercise to strengthen her knees, but after a mile of walking she is in too much pain to continue. What types of exercises should she do for strength?
Dr Howard in this type of surgery it's a local anesthesia or genral? thank very much for your reply and thank you for the information, blessing.
Thank you, this answered most of my questions and was DEAD on with what is happening with my Left knee. MRI showed the horizontal cleaver tear... pain, turning, STAIRS, giving way a bit. I see the specialist monday. happy that it can be fixed and I can once again be active. People know when I am not walking they know it hurts. I function but added exercise NO NO. and after losing over 100 pounds and with about a 100 to still lose. I need to be active, Thank you again!
@jnettle1 you are welcome... I'm glad it was of assistance to you~! I also hope you continue to feel better!
If you knee no longer has an ACL then turning, pivoting and twisting are testing the limits of the knee. Each time you perform those motions, you are pushing the meniscal cartilage and the other structures of the knee to the max... sometimes that will result in tears of the cartilage or wearing away of the cartilage
Hello Dr.Luks,
My MRI reports showed an oblique medial meniscus tear. I am going to visit an orthopedic surgeon in the first week of April to discuss my options. In your opinion, what exercises are good to keep active and not strenuate the knee too much. Also would arthroscopic surgery be avoidable? Thanks for your time. Regards from Toronto, Canada.
I have meniscus tear. fairly servere.the dotor has said so, everything you have explained points to this! I can't stand up on the leg as the knee will not support my weight without failing. I did this dirt biking and was rather abrupt as I thought I snapped my leg at first! he has told me to remain off that leg for six weeks and then look into physio. I would like as much advice I can find to help heal this without having a surgery. any suggestion you have I would love to hear them! thank-you!
True Simon... flap tears can be a problem... but luckily very few meniscus tears present as flap tears. The most common type of tear is degenerative fraying. Meniscus tears also behave quite differently depending on age. Young folks tend to get more flap or bucket handle tears than people over 50. So the treatment options can vary.
Thanks for the video. I am 51, play ice hockey, soccer, mountain unicycle and bicycle commute. I think I have a medial meniscus issue. I have mild to moderate pain but I think I will give it a few more weeks to see if it gets better on its own before seeking professional help.
Hi Derrick.. If you have a locked knee where you can not extend it.. there is a high likelihood that this is what we refer to as a "bucket-handle" tear of a meniscus. Best to be evaluated and examined sooner rather than later. Good Luck!
Why are they so common? Because they make a lot of money for surgeons who prey mainly on young people/athletes who dont know better
Is surgery always necessary? It does not work, hopefully that answers the question
Hey David... Thanks for stopping by... Following that type of injury a meniscus or cartilage injury would be anticipated more so than a ligament injury... but that's what a physical exam will tell you :-)! Good luck --- Feel free to stop back after your visit.
So clear and reassuring! Having just got MRI results that show a horizontal radial tear of the body of the lateral meniscus with associated meniscus cyst, which explains the problems of the last several years, especially when dancing! I shall listen carefully to all advice I'm given and if it does mean having an arthroscopic meniscus procedure I really hope I can hit the Zumba floor again and not literally! Thanks you so much for this video.
That's what I'm hoping. To hit the Zumba floor again. I have a tear in the posterior horn of the medical meniscus with fluid
How r u both
Thank you Dr. I have a quick ? Please. I have a medial complex tear and I can't run. What exercises can I do to help my pain symptoms? Thank you
How damaging is kneeling for long periods of time to the knee joint?
Thank you for this thorough explanation of meniscal tears. Very helpful and helps put the mind at ease. :)
I had am MRI and it shows a lateral meniscus tear. I don't recall a pop or sharp pain. This happened in the beginning of december. My left knee started swelling, got really stiff and couldn't bend it or straightened it. I am very active and sprint and do weight lifting. I stopped squats, running, lunges, and continued to work upper body and did rowing machine. That made my knee swell again and got stiff. It seems like anytime i try to go back to my regular routine my knee swells up stiffness returns and can't even walk.
what exercises can i continue to do while i heal?
Should i use crutches?
What type of knee brace shoukd i wear?
How long do these lateral tears take to heal?
I don't want to have surgery but how do i know if i am a good candidate?
Please help. Your video is probably the most informative non BS found in TH-cam
Laura L did you end up having surgery in the end my knee likes your know every time I exercise it swells and cant walk for days 😡😡😡
Excellent comprehensive explaination. Well done & I thank you.
thank you for your info My MRI says I have Medical compartmental osteoarthritic degenerative changes. Complex tear of the body and posterior horn of the medial meniscus. Chronic full thickness tear of the superior half of the anterior cruciate ligament. Joint effusion. Changes of chondromalacia. I am 57 and have set tile for years. I don't know what to do what do you suggest
Very informative, my doctor told me yesterday that I have a tear. But because I have Arthritis in that new he says, that it would be a 60/60 chance that surgery would make a difference. So I was referred to physical therapy. No surgery for now. However, I still have lots of questions and concerns.
If your doctor used the term 60/60 find a new doctor asap. He's clearly an imbecile.
How long does it take to recover?
THAT WAS A GOOD SECOND OPIONION YOU SAVED ME TIME/MONEY AND pain. good talk at firs i thought you were going to be uber boring and after a minute i felt you talking to me. Good job......
Robert... thanks for reaching out. IF you have knee pain which is causing a feeling like the knee wants to give way then an MRI might be a good idea. In patients with minimal pain, an MRI might not be necessary... but if you have instability then you may injure yourself one day and it is worth looking into a little deeper. Good Luck!
Stupid advice. You do not need an MRI, you do not need surgery, you need to rehabiltate yourself and give yourself time to heal. These fucker surgeons don't give a damn about your health
Thankyou for this great video. I had 2 MRI scans plus an X-Ray & for a year have had a medial miniscus tear in my left knee. What is your personal opinion on a complex tear, part radial & part horizontal leading from the horn to the root with a 1x1/2 inch cyst on the inside of the knee? This cyst has become smaller & I continue to lead an active life including walking to work (1/2 an hour each way, 4 times a week) & cycling activities ( shopping & on racing bikes). I am still in the care of a consultant but due to Covid have yet to see him in person.
Thank you soooooo very much, your video was quite helpful.
Wonderful video.I am Endocrinologist 63 yr old.I fell fell down on rt side recently & sustained fracture rt wrist.MRI of rt Knee showed oblique horizontal tear of the posterior horn of the medial meniscus communicates with superior articular surface. I am biker,runner & play tennis.I am asymptomatic.My Orthopod suggested Arthoplasty to repair tear to prevent further degeneration.I would like to have your opinion.
Did you eventually end up with surgery in that knee?
I agree with your assesment... it does not sound like a classic case of a meniscus tear. Runners knee is the more likely issue... but only a good exam by an Sports doc and perhaps an MRI can tell you for sure.
Hello Dr. Luks! I noticed you didn’t discuss root tears. I imagine they always require surgery especially in order to avoid bone necrosis? Is no weight bearing required for 4 weeks post surgery? I’m an active healthy 64 year old woman and tore my meniscus playing tennis. Any input you can give is greatly appreciated! 💙🎾
Should I challenge my MD's opinion - would arthroscopy help? Thx My lateral meniscal tear of 20 yrs is now compounded by aging (66yrs) & years of karate. MRI shows early osteoarth. MD is reluctant to do any procedure as it may "exacerbate" the arthritis - rec. lubricant injs which have helped + Aleve. Still cannot flex knee & have "snapping" over lat condyle + Pain & continued swelling.
Hi, I am 55 yrs old, felt pain in my knee since August 2013. Had Cortizone shot October 2013, pain came back December 2013. Had MRI done Feb. 2014 and it shows: complex tear of the posterior horn of the medial meniscus with intercondylar fragment, small Bakers cyst, condromalacia Patellae grade II/III., Lateral Patellar Tilt . My doctor recommends surgery for the tear. I would like to get your opinion please. Thank you.
Thanks for the great information! What would you suggest be the best recovery methods if you recently agitated or frayed your meniscus. The PT doesn't believe mine is torn.
Good man, lots of intelligent information and advice.
Well done Sir!
True grade 2 tears do not "need" surgery. Was an MRI performed?
What is the normal down time after meniscus scope sugery?
Hi Dr Luks, injured my knee while carrying a heavy crate about 6 weeks ago. I didn't know till last weekwhat the problem was. My orthro wanted to book me for surgerythe next day. He only spent about 10 minutes checking out my knee. I have instability and a click in my knee. Do you think a second opinion and an MRI is necessary or should I get the surgery as soon as possible
"This was so so so so helpful to me" Very kind! Thanks!
Hi doctor I do have
If I continue to ice it and don't overuse the knee, how long do the less severe MCL injuries take to heal?
Thanks for the video I have a meniscus tear in my right now I got it from football at the age of 25 and it's been a year or more now, I continued football and squating and many activities after which gave me little pain however recently my side of the knee where the tear is I feel a bump in the bone and it's always hurting what sign may this be
Good day Sir.Just got may MRI result and diagnosed with an oblique tear on my posterior medial meniscus(left knee).But I can still managed to play basketball twice a week having a little pain after the game (scale of 2 out of 10 pain) with a knee support.And apart from that I can still do wall squat, leg extensions and leg curls with a minimal weight and do a 20-30 min jogging with a scale of 2 out of 10 pain.But my question is do I need a surgery for this tear??Hope to hear it from you soon.tnx
Hello! Im having pain in my knee (over 2months) & after 5doctor's appointments I have NO answers. No injury/damage done & pain came out of nowhere. The xrays&MRI show nothing. Most recent orthopedic surgeon I saw recommended arthroscopic surgery even though he didn't necessarily see any damage to the meniscus. I don't want to proceed with the surgery if there is a possibility that there is no tear, but can it give me answers or relief? What else can it be? What should I do about the surgery?
Thank you so much for your kind advise.
Dr.Luks,I had a knee sprain a month ago,MRI says: ACL contusion, grade l degeneration of posterior horn & medial meniscus & mild knee joint effusion with small baker cyst formation.As per the doctor's advice I have been using a knee brace for a week with crutches.I feel shocking pain if I move my knee with burning sensation all over ,if I stand I feel all blood going down to my foot, it turns to dark red and veins show in seconds! Do I need physical therapy & How long it may take to heal ?
Very helpful info. Thanks a lot.
Hey Doc, just found your videos..great stuff very informative.
Thanks.
2 weeks ago, playing basketball, heard a snap, then I turned and heard another click..that was it..left knee in so much pain.
Could not walk, emergency room..
4 days on crutches and difeene meds and I could put weight on it.
It’s feeling better but, it’s feels very weak when I do something strenuous.
Back to Doctors next week for Physical therapy.
I swear I would never wish the pain I had on anybody..it was terrible..
I should have listened to my wife, she said I was to old 50..to be playing basketball with high school kids.
On a side not..”why are women always right??
Anyway great videos Thanks again.
Love the accent..
I miss Americans.
Back in Ireland now..
Have a good one.
Hello Mr. Luks, I have had arthroscopic surgery (5/23/13). I have been using an ice wrap on the knee. I still seem to have some swelling around top upper knee and some numbness around the knee where the incisions are. Not much pain, but not full comfort either. The swelling concerns me, right knee looks larger than the left (good knee). Is it to be expected this could be the new norm? Also, knee and leg strength is much diminished, do you have suggestions for a strengthening program? Thanks
I am in the us army. Just took a PT test. I had ran about 1/2 mile when it felt like my left knee just gave way. With much pain and effort I finished. I am unable to bend the knee now, way to much pain. The clinic did x-rays and saw nothing, gave me a brace and said it was a meniscus tear to get MRI and surgery. What are your thoughts?
Whether or not a meniscus is going to heal is usually based on where the tear is, the quality of the meniscus tissue and how large the tear is. Some tears heal spontaneously, some require sutures to bring the edges back together.
Hello Dr.Luks, I'm 44 yr old & actively involved in soccer. About 4 weeks back, I twisted by knee while playing & although I could walk (not freely), my knee used to hurt especially while climbing stairs/putting weight on it. I've stopped playing & it's a lot better. I can now climb stairs without much pain. I can also bend my knee freely but the pain is still there especially while getting up from a chair (i have to get up slowly). I am feeling better. do you think I need rest/surgery. Thanks
hi ...i am 40 years of age. I fell down while bowling in a cricket match ..went to visit an orthopedition i was told that i have miniscus tears in both knees so i have to go for surgery. then went for 2nd openion and was told no need for surgery just do physio theray thatn after 6 months if i could not recover i have to go for surgery option . Now its almost 7 months passed .Condition improved but still my heel cant touch my hips. What should i do ???? please can your suggest any option.
This was so so so so helpful to me. I am 35 and have started working out at the gym. the inner part of my knee is sooo tender to even touch. I can't walk down the stairs easily and when I go to stand up for the first time or now walking I am in pain... I also feel like it is going to just give out on me. I really need to work out because it is summer time and I want to lose weight. I can't even do the eliptical which is supposed to be the easiest on the knee.. I am so sad...
i
Did your knee ever heal or did you end up getting surgery? Why did you have pain coming down the stairs?
Hi there.. could you suggest what kind of brace I can use to protect my miniscus injury while i'm playing basketball?
I used this McDavid brace when I first hurt mine and it worked real well (basketball related injury as well)
www.mcdavidusa.com/Product/4195R/MCDAVID_Level_2_Knee_Support_adjustable_cross_straps.aspx
please Dr Howard advise me . i have torn in posterior horn of medial meniscus since 4 years just three times locking happened and no swelling but always stiff in back of knee and pain after hard activities . the question does the surgery to trim the torn and shape it helps to treat the stiff and pain or just treat the locking ??? i visited 4 doctors but dont have clear answers
Diagnosed with medial meniscus tear in 2000, I ended up having a steroid injection, pain went away, and I have been quite active since. Then in Feb 2013 pain came back after a brisk walk even though I had been walking daily for years. I have been unable to walk for exercise since Feb, pain varies on a daily basis depending on what I did the day before. I have to take an airplane trip in 2 weeks & I am in dread of long airport walks.If no shot, is it damaging to walk with the pain? 61 yo, thanx
I recently had Arthroscopy for a pain at the back of my right knee. The pain was sharp usually after walking 100 m. When I was 12 had my knee locking when playing soccer but a few years later the problem disappeared. Now I am 63. My Dr recommended surgery. On surgery Dr found tears of the medial and the lateral meniscus and performed partial medial meniscectomy and repair on the lateral meniscus. Now after watching this video I said myself that probably I made a mistake by getting the scope. I did not report any locking or swelling. Now I am on my recovering time. Could you please give me your opinion on this?
Dr Luks, thank You fro making this video and Explanation of meniscal tear.
Thanks Barbara!
dr lukes i have meniscus tear superior surface peripheral tear at the posterior horn junction meniscus.. do i need to require surgery?
Great video, I'm wondering about my knee. Feels very loose in the middle of my knee, especially when my leg is completely straight bearing all my weight.
Feels tender on the outside of my knee as well, and just general instability. Does this sound like meniscal problems or something else?
Tore my left miniscus in November and my right miniscus in February. Both times they healed in about 2 months. X-rays revealed miniscus degeneration and arthritis. I can walk slowly without pain so I'm puting off any surgery for now. If the use of stem cells are legalized in the future would stem cell injections regenerate the miniscus?
A bum knee?.. your expertise would be highly appreciated. . Thx
Thanks for your insights :). I was kind of hoping it would be a ligament that could be fixed and not the meniscus or cartilage. I will find out for sure though next month. In the mean time, do you think low impact training on a cross trainer is permissible (to maintain fitness), if there's no discomfort or pain? Or am I risking further damage to the cartilage/meniscus (if I'v damaged them)? Swimming is something I could do but it's much more convenient to use a cross-trainer for me currently.
Thank- you Dr. for making this an understandable informative video.
Felicity the problem is that a lot of the tissue in the knees does NOT get any blood flow, therefor does NOT regenerate. Once it is worn out, it is done. In many cases it needs to be removed or will cause problems. I lived 6 years with flap meniscus tears and it was NOT comfortable. She really needs an MRI to see what is going on. You cannot simply "strengthen" or "repair" it with exercise - it many cases only wears out more and more.
I get cortisone shots in both knees every few months.. as needed ( left knee already had 3 surgeries). I hope they keep helping me..
SirJared :-),
No one can truly say if tears will become larger or not. There are few if any good studies which followed people with tears and repeated their MRI to see if tears grew in size --- or even diminished in size. Some tears which we know to be repairable (with sutures) we will recommend surgery so that you do not lose any meniscus... however, if your tear will require a removal of the torn piece and you have few if any issues with your knee --- then think twice b4 having surgery.
sir. I have a bucket handle medial meniscus tear. should I undergo an arthroscopy.
If you are an athlete and have a small medial meniscus tear, is it likely to get worse if you continue playing? Is it better to get it taken care of early or is it ok to hold out?
This could be related to the knee and the menisci .. or a rare form of popping that causes the pain to radiate... it's something we refer to as snapping medial hamstrings.
Way to replace meniscus pad? i step downstairs with rt leg fall thru on left knee. going up like a push/jump up then normal step with good knee.Hides a little the fact i cant climb stairs as normal. thigh smaller over the years. torn meniscus was removed at in h.s. football. it feels like it would burst sideways if i jumped or tried to run. 20 minute walk&im sore a day. ten-fifteen minutes walk ok.Cant balance n rockey stream.Only inside left weak.my only option partial knee replacement?
Dr great vid! Although I do have a question. I tore my acl about 15yrs ago while wrestling in hs. Never had surgery just let it heal on its own and since then I've had odd injuries to t he same knee off and on while doing physical activities. Now at times when my knee twists or turns a certain way I feel like it gives out for a split second a bit of a discomfort but not pain then it will pop quit loud. Any suggestions on how to strengthen or repair this. Is surgery needed? Is this cosidered a
Real good information, thanks
Bro i have low grade tear in acl and horizontal medial tear in menicus tear, should i do these excercises as my doc advised me to take injections of striod
Ricky ... There are many different structures you could have injured. The kneecap - or patella- is one of them. If you feel the patella is no longer centered properly on the knee it would be worth it to have this evaluated. Good luck!
Thank you for this information, I just found out mine is tore on both sides of the right knee. I was told I needed surgery but today I ran into a trainer who is a good friend. He said build up the muscles around it, but guess no more racquetball. Do you recommend joint medicine such as inflamma less?
How r u now?
So good analogy, l fee much better. Thank you doctor
thanks dr howard , please advise me i feel always stiffness at the baaack of knee and the upper calf and sometimes cant extend my leg this happend to me just 3 times at the last 4 years , i had mri shows meniscus tear torn and minimal synovial effusion . doctor said you need remove the torn not repair.now i just wondering i dont have pain in sides or front of knee and noo swelling just stiffness in the back of knee and pain if i make alot of effort and this upset me do i need surgery or what
Dr. I have been in major pain for 3 weeks. I will do anything for relief I am taking med but I need a cure.
i believe i have something like this, puffy inflamation on the inner part of my knee, really noticable the last 3 or 4 months, twisted my knee out Jan 2012. It was after i pulled the cap, ( my caps have allways been floaty, and i showed my girlfriend and it was the last time i ever tried to move the cap.) I think i might try acupuncture, because of no health insurance and have to wait about a month before first available check up, but THANKYOU SO MUCH!! This vid really helped. Any Advice?
Hi Dr. I have an issue with my knee. About 3 months ago I was told that I had a displaced knee cap. I could not get down on or bend my knee. I had physical therapy to strengthen the muscles around my knee. Afterwards the pain was gone. It's been a month since I finished. I exercise to strengthen the muscles. Now I have pain on the inner side of my left knee. I can bend it and squat but when I walk for long periods it hurts bad in one small spot. It's not as painful if I jog. Any suggestions