great insight. 6months in after a tear in the medial, accompanied with severe tendinopathy and collagen loss in the patellar tendon, which combined to cause so much pain my brain shut off my quadriceps for a couple weeks while i tried to "tough it out" resulting in significant atrophy. with an ambitious pt approach using progressive loading, lots of stability and isometrics, after ems woke up the muscle fibers - i'm blessed and thankful for slow and incremental but really uplifting improvements. glad i saw an ortho who also prefers a long-range non-invasive approach, and glad i had a pt team who let me push myself hard under their supervision!!!
For 2.5 years I have been limping after walking, it started off just up hill, and now I can’t walk longer than 15 minutes without limping. I can’t kneel down, or have a dance or play with my nieces. I was told it was muscle imbalance by nhs for years and to ‘push through the pain’ including squats and walking on my limped leg, which I believe has made it worse, I was repeatedly not taken seriously. When I suggested I thought it was something else like a cartilage problem, they really made me feel like I was lying or being dramatic. I finally got fed up and went for a private mri scan last week. Turns out it’s s severe oblique meniscus medial tear and a 3.5mm cyst. I’ve been told now I will most likely need surgery 😢 I’m only 29 and haven’t played sports, only running and walking. I’m a healthy weight, and have no idea how it happened! I wish I had found out sooner and been given the correct physio, if you have any symptoms go private, don’t waste any time!
That's sad to see at such young age you are facing this. Almost same for me too but I am 39 and into sports. NHS is very slow. Unless you are on the death bed they won't take you seriously. For everything they have one solution. Paracetamol.
Hope you get well soon. M having pain since 2020. No I kept going to a rehab dr and had been misdiagnosing. Now a new ortho dr is saying to go for arthroscopy. I wonder if my meniscus can be treated after 3 years. 😢
@@seilrang I have the same thing, tear and cyst. After a year it stayed the same. The problem I've found is the lack of consensus in treatment. The surgeon I saw lined me up for meniscectomy. But a latest study found that when feasible, meniscal repair should be performed preferentially over meniscectomy, which can cause arthritis down the track. I'm going to another dr to see if they can do the repair. Anyway, it seems there's no perfect treatment with this and probably have to live with it.
I am SO grateful to have paused after learning I tore my meniscus in 2020 and then, subsequently went off a step unexpectedly and also have a meniscus root tear. I am doing the conservative approach with physical therapy, herbs, and intense self-care. Your video's have so broadened my understanding of the atomy of my knee, etc., helping me choose what exercises to do and to also share what I have learned with my physical therapists! Thank you so much. Will continue learning, exploring and sharing your wisdom with many many others!
Although this is one year old, it has just appeared on my page. Excellent timing as one year ago today I while walking tore my meniscus. I had therapy and was referred to a surgeon who suggested surgery. I didn’t go through with the surgery and have been attempting self treatment. Thank you for your advice I will continue doing this self treatment as it does seem to be working. Different to want I was originally told.😊
Thank you very much for sharing the info. I'm currently experiencing meniscus tear and waiting for an appointment with a surgeon. With the knowledge I learned from you, I know what to discuss with my surgeon and hopefully I can gradually heal without a surgery. Appreciated.
I wont be able to stand the constant pain for a year. Mri is being read today. Id rather spend 3 months recovering than wait 12 months still in pain, not being able to straighten by leg and have it catching and throwing me to the floor where i could injure myself further.
I had a partial meninsectomy when I way 19 yrs old. It is the regret of my life. Don't do it. You can look forward to a life of pain (If you are lucky, which I wasn't, the pain may be delayed by a few years after surgery)
@@hanahlee9520 Trust you own instincts, you have three opinions from three surgeons I presume. You have had an MRI I presume. I guess you have given it time to heal and done extensive physio.
They are suggesting surgery for my 13yo daughter despite the fact they cant see a definitive tear on mri. They suspect there is one because of a cyst attached to meniscus.
@@robertb4075 I think cysts and scans are side issues. Its about symtoms and function. Also look at history, e.g. ankle injuries, activity level, stress. Then you have to decide what action to take, need to look at your options, surgical or non surgical option. You need to understand what risks (and benefit) each option carries. There have been recent studies showing surgical partial menisectomy has not better outcome than physio
I’m so sorry to hear that, I have a few friends in the same position. It seems common . I’m also working through a radial tear that I made worse while snowboarding. An ortho originally wanted to cut. When I decided to mull it over, the surprise & him urging me to get it over with kinda gave away that he was looking for his fee - …. A different ortho told me to focus on rehab and symptoms : if with rehab and strengthening there I’m functionally fine, that’s enough. It’s important to protect the meniscus from further damage though, I think w means it’s weaker
Thank you very much for your help . I have a meniscus tear in both knees. I am so happy to hear it will heal and avoid what needs to avoid and keep up with what needs to do to ensure that meniscus will heal. ❤
That’s so good to hear you explained perfectly I’m going to have surgery I have pain almost 6 months no improvement thank you so much you’re so amazing
My knee gets stuck in the bent position. I'm glad I have a better term- locking. As I'm currently not happy with my orthopedic surgeon, I'll be looking for another. He apparently doesn't care that my knee locks in the bent position and I use my hands to gently move my leg until I feel it unlock. There is sharp pain deep in the knee too. Thanks for this information!
Tearing my ACL and meniscus for the 3rd time here - worth to check if there's posterior tibial slope in the knee causing the ACL to tear > destabilising the knee > other knee injuries
Another excellent video. Thank you. I've had to cut back on my running, avoid swimming breaststroke, and do more leg stretches after cycling. I think I'm making slow progress to recovery.
Thanks for this Will…left knee did great now right knee is painfully locking up. After a few weeks of therapy PT recommends I get MRI. He thunks it may be a stuck flap of meniscus as you describe. I was fit and active until mid March and then my left knee blew up…my whole leg, thigh to ankle turned black and was filled with fluid from complex Baker’s cyst. That lead to discovering 2-4 OA with multiple meniscus tears. Worked through in PT in 2 1/2 months doing great then right knee swelled and shooting pain and locking up. MRI in 3 weeks. Likely OA in there too so I’m wanting to avoid making it worse. If there is a loose flap does that ever properly heal? I was an avid hiker and mountain biker before this. I do have missing 2” from left leg due to motorcycle accident. I’ve done well for 68 years and never anticipated not staying active.
Great video. Gutted as just been told I have a lateral meniscal tear, my knee is unable to straighten/extend fully naturally. Waiting for MRI appointment to confirm. Gutted and very low as walking running keep the demons at bay. Trying to get my head around it and very much NOT wanting surgery. Worried as my knee can’t straighten fully and can’t extend back naturally. Worrying I’ve got the worst bucket handle tear. Going to try all the strength training/rehab. Thank you so very much for your videos, super helpful! ❤
Thanks for this info... I recently have acquired a torn meniscus in my left knee (possibly in the other knee as well), & your videos are helpful & explanatory.
Last November I was working in the yard, and had a tremendous pain spread across the back of the knee. I went down on the ground, grabbing my knee. ( a man came out and gave a red card to the tool I was using!). Went to the ortho clinic and was told it was torn from the bone. Had a rerooting on Dec. 1st. The recovery is working with PT and exercise.
@@HT-Physio 2018 got an ACL injury / Meniscus tear of my right knee, never opted for surgery, the discomfort is still there and times it pains… Can I still continue with PT and rehabilitative exercises as prescribed in you channel to strengthen the knee… Don’t want to have a surgery if I can avoid it
Thank you so very much. Quite worried after slamming into a small metal gas cylinder and then fell to the floor two months ago. Terrible and excruciating pain. Kneecap painful and intensely numb. Hard lump on lower side of the knee. Swelling. Olfen patches and RICE help. Thanks again. Have a lovely day.
fantastic, thanks ! I've been looking for clear info about the true length of time it takes for recovery. I have pain still in the 6th week of physio and DO NOT want a surgery. thanks, will continue with my FAB physio therapist.
Very helpful, because it is a slow heal. I’m in month 5 and feel the very first indications that things are starting to improve. When I exercise more aggressively it just sets me back, and need to start over.
@@amcnulty9024 ah me too, but I'm only in month 4. Physio said it would take 'a few weeks' to recover, but that has been over 2 months now. I was about to give up and get me a surgery, but somehow glad there's more in the same situation who are not giving up. Good luck
Your video has given me such hope. I’m 64, my knee gave way when I was running to hit a tennis ball. This was 3 weeks ago. My MRI showed a medial meniscus tear, said to be moderate to severe. The PA pushed for surgery without discussing rehab at all or what research says about success rate, or the possibility of harmful consequences. That was a red flag. I’ve been walking a couple of miles daily, doing some inclines, so far no locking, no giving way yet, discomfort maybe 1-2 out of 10. Seems like so many orthopedic offices push for surgery as a moneymaker. I’ll be watching for the symptoms you so adeptly pointed out and your book is coming. I would like to know can a medial meniscus tear in a 64 year old athlete heal? Does that senior age prevent healing in most cases? Will this be a permanent condition I’ll just have to learn to live with? I really want to play tennis! I realize playing singles is most likely out. Is pivoting a cause of medial meniscus tears? Thank you so much for your channel and expertise!🎾🌻
1. Detached meniscus 2. Osteoarthritis. Paid for private physio, MRI, orthopaedic surgeon, had ACP treatment with hyaluronic acid into the joint (x3) - only lasted 2 months and v v expensive. Surgeon not happy to go with joint replacement yet as a new one will be needed a few years down the line (he doesn’t rate partial knee replacements at all). Came across a knee brace which gets 5* from me. (Made by Thuasne a French company - Action Reliever). It is prescribable on the NHS but my GP either couldn’t or wouldn’t, wanted to send me to the Ortho dept at the hospital (how long would that all take?). Carefully measured as described on the website, ordered the brace, it arrived the next day, followed the instructions to fit it - fantastic results, a god send after 12 months of miserable pain. Because I have a formal diagnosis I didn’t pay VAT - cost about £200. Money very well spent. I enjoy walking again. The one problem I now have is I seem to have developed and allergy to the silicone doughnut around the patella but I am addressing that with cotton quilt wadding stitched inside. Probably have to pay for my own replacement in time as the NHS disappears into the private sphere (RIP) but till then I keep moving, strengthening and cut out the biscuits! (Can’t dance any more though, which is a massive loss) Really helpful films and useful exercises, thanks.
TY for the brace reference...my doc would not write a prescript for it...I have 2 different tear areas 9 months in. It has been hell. I do not want surgery or injections.
I was told that if I don't do the operation, I might get arthritis later in five years time but what I hear from watching your video is the other way round.....
tc.. I'm just 10 days into my knee issue. Gp says medial miniscus tear and whilst I don't disagree with him I'm not convinced completely (no swelling, heat or redness but pain instability and weakness) so maybe a twist or sprain without tear. Anyway hoping to see a physio who can give a second opinion. In doing my research I would like to say that of all the videos etc I've seen on this subject your advice is the one i find reliable and well informed. thanks for that
I had successful surgery for my meniscus tear, after i was getting the feeling something was floating in my knee. But several times a week that floating piece would get pinched between the two bones and cause a very sharp pain in the middle of the knee joint. I had to be extremely cautious all the time. Surgery was done and in a couple days i was back to normal activities.
That was certainly the best solution. Nevertheless, you have to be aware that something of the meniscus has probably been cut away, the edges have been smoothed and now some of the shock absorber meniscus is missing. Lifelong stretching and strengthening muscles, good nutrition are now still in vogue if you don't want to get osteoarthritis
Great explanation. You got me wondering after your explanation of the different types and location of injury. My MRI report seems to go “all over”: “Multidirectionnal tear of the body and posterior horn of the medial miniscus with generation of 2 meniscal flaps the larger one displaced in the medial femoral gutter and the second in the intercongylar notch posteriorly.” Thats not what worries me. It’s accompanied by:”Tricompartmental chondrapathy, worse in the medial compartment”. Translation : Osteoarthritis? I don’t have any lock up issues or unwanted movements. Question: arthroscopy to fix the meniscus? Or straight to knee replacement?(because of osteoarthritis). I am 63 years old and very active.
Very helpful, thankyou for this, and the 2 other videos I have viewed this evening on meniscus tears. Confirms my thoughts on what happened to my knee to cause pain, and very helpful on knowing how to proceed. Margaret 78 UK 😊
Very informative and helpful video. I am trying to decide whether to proceed with surgery for a medial tear and this helps put things in perspective. Thank you
Found out I have a medial meniscus bucket handle tear. Happened during BJJ. Physio said nothing about waiting to see will it heal. Just told me I need surgery. I'd rather avoid that if possible.
Здравствуйте ответьте пожалуйста как вы сейчас чувствуете себя? Вам удалось восстановиться вы можете бегать как раньше? У меня точно такая же ситуация год уже хромаю болит. Теряю надежду что смогу бегать как раньше
Always interesting to listen to, even tough I don't think I have this condition. Thanks Will. I would like to ask you something ( which is off topic, sorry): Is forward tilted pelvis something that is part of your area of expertise and do you think you could do a video about this topic ; like, how to identify it, and how to potentially fix it please? Thanks again for sharing your knowledge through these very instructive videos.
I have had injury 3 years now it nearly gets better after many weeks then bam the next day pain again , so frustrating, I am now experimenting with electric gardening and have researched earthing the body and have combined the two with a copper cable stuck in the ground and coiled clockwise around the leg with more turns around the knee area , 30 mins a day I find the pain reduces somewhat as an experiment it’s in early stages, I also have placed a steel cable with a magnet one end fixed magnetic north under my mattress and I find this helps also. Placing a woollen hat or scarf under the joint of the knee when lying on your back sleeping creates localised heat and this also has helped reduce pain . Crazy maybe but who cares if perhaps it works time will tell. I cycle 7 miles a day this also helps with leg motion as long as not much pressure with strong head wind or steep gradients. I find walking hurts more running impossible. I have flat feet now here is the dilemma, I had some insoles made to create better posture but part of me thinks that they inhibit the healing of the meniscus as I was born flat footed the bones and muscles grew to compensate naturally So now what to do, perhaps dispense with the insoles and see what happens.
I had surgery yesterday I didn’t have lock in my knee but it kept getting very swollen . Did it 4 times before I had surgery . I waited since March . Had surgery in august
My doctor said it wouldn’t heal in its own. He also said he found arthritis in my knee. He told me I would be like new after surgery. Now after seeing video I am 2nd guessing my decision
Hi Will, I’ve just had an X-ray and my GP has said I don’t have the shock absorber! It’s worn away, she’s suggested cortisone injection for now! Only 54 so no option for a knee replacement at this point! Can you recommend anything? I’m at my wits end as I’m a very keen hiker and want to continue doing long distance hikes in the future! Thanks for all your great videos, they are so helpful 😊
I injured my knee 13 wks ago. X-ray shows no fracture or significant arthritis. MRI shows complex radial medial meniscus tear, Baker's cyst, loose bodies. bone bruise & soft tissue edema. Still very extremely painful I've had knee locking & a episode of 3 hrs of stabbing pain in the medial area. Thought I would go crazy. I have a brace, compression hose, & started PT. My DR mentioned a cortisone shot & then surgery if not better. Just an awful, painful injury, and no easy solution.
@@saoumoyaghosh8635 I'm having surgery a partial meniscectomy on Nov 22, this coming wk. The day before Thanksgiving. It continues to be a nightmare injury, very painful. So hope I will get a huge benefit & relief after the surgery. The cortisone shot was no help. It's been 6 mos. since the injury!
How did your surgery go? Did it help? I am due to have surgery in a few weeks and I am on the fence about it. According to MRI it is an extensive medial tear at roo horn. I have pain, but it has subsided a lot.
Should a person consider surgery if pain is off and on for over a year and the knee swells constantly? Job requires a lot of time on their feet? They have lateral meniscus tear.
i had a meniscus debridement in my left knee in like 2007 (i was 17) and i haven't had many issues with it since then (i'm now 34) i have recently just injured my right knee to the point where i have constant pain every day and makes it hard to sleep, i actuslly opted out of a meniscus surgery in my right knee in like 2018 cause i was smoking a lot of weed and it scared me lol, but i am now considering the debridement on my right knee again as it's getting too painful/annoying.
Tore my meniscus in my left knee over 2 yo still as painful as ever can't afford to go private so waiting for NHS to do it's thing. HNS said I'm way down the list. Have chronic arthritis in the right knee doc said I need a replacement knee joint that was 5 year's ago, was told I will have at least another 2 to 3 year wait for that op as well. In the mean time I'm hobbling around on crutches and pain killers but living in hope that once the torys are out of office the waiting lists may finally start moving optimistically looking at 4 years from now which will make 70 yo.
I’m so sorry you’re going through that. Italians have the same problem with their socialized medical care. People wait 6 months to see a doctor! I wish you well!💐
I am a cricket lover. The first time I twisted my knee was almost 17-18 years ago while batting. The pain was so severe and quick that i felt like i was shot with bullet, because when i shot the ball to my left, my right knee got planted on ground and my upped bodh rotated to left. My knee was severely swollen. I didng go to doctor, and it got resolved in a month. Sadly same thing happened again 3-4 times again during playing cricket. Now i get same pain even after walking or squatting in gym. Now i feel lump behind my knee and tightness. i also feel knocking sound. Dont know what to do.
I am 73 years old and was just diagnosed with a meniscus tear and its going on for 3 months. I am doing some exercise for meniscus tear but it effects my ankle. My sports doctor said my ankle swelling is from the meniscus tear, because my knee swells up it drains to my ankle. My ankle tends to be more painful and annoying. My doctor recommends surgery and my knees from x-rays show they are very healthy. I do not have arthritis in my knee, I know when I had the incident, it was when I was on the trend mill and I was distracted. What are your thoughts?
You may have minimal damage and have no improvement after a year, but that should not mean surgery as the outcome of surgery can mean major limitations.
Thank you for the excellent videos. Regarding a medial meniscus root tear… Do you agree or disagree with the articles and surgeons who say pretty much every patient with MMRT who is a good candidate (not too much arthritis yet) should have the repair surgery? And not even try conservative treatment and strengthening
Me knee gave way on 2/4/23 with extreme pain without warning, I have had both scraped around 14 years ago & they have been fine. I went for a mri scan & this is the report........Intact lateral meniscus & cruciate ligaments. There is a horizontal cleavage tear through the posterior horn of the medial meniscus contacting the superior & interior articulating margin. No displacement is seen but the medial meniscus is extruded. There is full-thickness medial tibiofemoral compartment chondral loss with articulating bony margin marrow oedema & subchondral cystic change. Intact lateral tibiofemoral compartment cartilage, patellar tendon, extensor mechanism & retropatellar cartilage with subtle surface fraying & incomplete fissuring within the apex. No frank osteochondral lesion seen. No fracture present. Small volume joint effusion. End of report. I am still in pain & can not put any compression on the knee without pain, I walk with a limp & dis comfort. What sort of treatment will I need? I am 58 years old & would like to return to how I was before all this happened. Thanks Steven.
I have had the tear for 6 months and its just getting worse, but, its not locking or giving way, its just sore to bend or straighten and now even in bed its sore, and when I wake up during the night its hard to get back to sleep, I dont want to have surgery but I dont see it getting any better
I am 68, stage 4 arthritis only in right knee, locks once a week and will become normal after a couple of hours of complete rest. I am not sure if i go for TKR.
My knee MRI showed horizontal tear in the posterior horn of the medial meniscus. It has been over 5 months since the initial injury. With around only 5-10% improvement in pain since then. 😢 I have been doing some physio on my own. Does taking collagen, glucosamine, chondroitin and MSM facilitate repair of the ligament? will daily warm compress help with the blood flow to the medial meniscus? thanks so much
Had surgery 1 1/2 years ago for a medial root tear. It was reattached with some type of suture. Didn’t heal so still having pain and stiffness. Had a cortisone injection and it helped for around 5 months. No arthritis so far and when I do start to develop it my doc says next procedure is knee replacement. Not looking forward to that. Find your videos very helpful.
Would acupuncture help with the healing of a lateral miniscus tear? I wondered if it would help increase the blood flow to the area to which may help the healing process?
Thanks for your videos. My right knee had 'sting' playing ball and very sore for 2 weeks. Since during COVID 2020, I couldn't get surgery anyway as MRI showed "complex" tears and 'new' and 'old'. I was age 58. Good news was as you say, after ~10 months, knee got stronger with only mild pain. Bad news is 2 years lately (and more hoops/pickleball) it's been aggravated to point of any activity creates outside knee stiffness, and pain done to foot. I'm guessing tear is worse. There is also grade 3 arthritis. So question - considering another MRI, as pinching/stinging after mild exercise is painful, but ortho guys at this point just simply say "age ~60, arthritis in knee, recommend only injections, or worse replacement'. My gut tells me scope to repair and or remove 'parts' would help. Comments? (I've done chiro work, softwave, knee traction and various other exercise). I can't jog, only 'gimp' down court...6'2 200 lbs Thanks!
Dr, you forgot to tell people to avoid stairs when having a Meniscus tear. Especially going down. Is it ok to go up the stairs for a few steps like say 10, had an ultrasound done a month ago and went back to see my caretaker and I said this wrong I don't have pain in the lateral of the knee I have pain in the medial so we did another ultrasound and sure enough whoever read the last ultrasound was either on drugs because it was not my knee. so we did another ultrasound and it came back with my knee's results. I will go back to the clinic where I had the ultrasound done and address this mix-up. thanks for listening.
He said in another video that glucosamine is not recommended because it doesn't help, but curcumin with piperine, omega 3 bioalgae oil and 3 mg boron daily
great insight.
6months in after a tear in the medial, accompanied with severe tendinopathy and collagen loss in the patellar tendon, which combined to cause so much pain my brain shut off my quadriceps for a couple weeks while i tried to "tough it out" resulting in significant atrophy.
with an ambitious pt approach using progressive loading, lots of stability and isometrics, after ems woke up the muscle fibers - i'm blessed and thankful for slow and incremental but really uplifting improvements.
glad i saw an ortho who also prefers a long-range non-invasive approach, and glad i had a pt team who let me push myself hard under their supervision!!!
For 2.5 years I have been limping after walking, it started off just up hill, and now I can’t walk longer than 15 minutes without limping. I can’t kneel down, or have a dance or play with my nieces.
I was told it was muscle imbalance by nhs for years and to ‘push through the pain’ including squats and walking on my limped leg, which I believe has made it worse, I was repeatedly not taken seriously. When I suggested I thought it was something else like a cartilage problem, they really made me feel like I was lying or being dramatic.
I finally got fed up and went for a private mri scan last week.
Turns out it’s s severe oblique meniscus medial tear and a 3.5mm cyst.
I’ve been told now I will most likely need surgery 😢 I’m only 29 and haven’t played sports, only running and walking. I’m a healthy weight, and have no idea how it happened!
I wish I had found out sooner and been given the correct physio, if you have any symptoms go private, don’t waste any time!
That's sad to see at such young age you are facing this. Almost same for me too but I am 39 and into sports. NHS is very slow. Unless you are on the death bed they won't take you seriously. For everything they have one solution. Paracetamol.
Hope you get well soon. M having pain since 2020. No I kept going to a rehab dr and had been misdiagnosing. Now a new ortho dr is saying to go for arthroscopy. I wonder if my meniscus can be treated after 3 years. 😢
@@seilrangAny update?
@@Flashbax I haven't met the arthroscopy doctor yet. Appointment is in November end. I'll update on what they do .
@@seilrang I have the same thing, tear and cyst. After a year it stayed the same. The problem I've found is the lack of consensus in treatment. The surgeon I saw lined me up for meniscectomy. But a latest study found that when feasible, meniscal repair should be performed preferentially over meniscectomy, which can cause arthritis down the track. I'm going to another dr to see if they can do the repair. Anyway, it seems there's no perfect treatment with this and probably have to live with it.
I am SO grateful to have paused after learning I tore my meniscus in 2020 and then, subsequently went off a step unexpectedly and also have a meniscus root tear. I am doing the conservative approach with physical therapy, herbs, and intense self-care. Your video's have so broadened my understanding of the atomy of my knee, etc., helping me choose what exercises to do and to also share what I have learned with my physical therapists! Thank you so much. Will continue learning, exploring and sharing your wisdom with many many others!
Can you specify some things that you are doing for recovery?? I am also dealing with a miniscus tear of grade 3 and docs have suggested surgery
Although this is one year old, it has just appeared on my page. Excellent timing as one year ago today I while walking tore my meniscus. I had therapy and was referred to a surgeon who suggested surgery. I didn’t go through with the surgery and have been attempting self treatment. Thank you for your advice I will continue doing this self treatment as it does seem to be working. Different to want I was originally told.😊
Thank you very much for sharing the info. I'm currently experiencing meniscus tear and waiting for an appointment with a surgeon. With the knowledge I learned from you, I know what to discuss with my surgeon and hopefully I can gradually heal without a surgery. Appreciated.
Have you surgery done bro
thanks bro. this information made stop overthinking about my meniscus tear. just got my mri result and gonna see a doctor tomorrw
Same here. Just got my MRI and waiting to see the doctor. Good luck to you and your healing!
If only I had known it two years ago. I need not have undergone the surgery. Since the operation I have been having problems with my knee. Greetings❤
Super useful and clearly explained. Talking to a surgeon tomorrow and feel better prepared with this information in hand. Thank you!
I wont be able to stand the constant pain for a year. Mri is being read today. Id rather spend 3 months recovering than wait 12 months still in pain, not being able to straighten by leg and have it catching and throwing me to the floor where i could injure myself further.
I had a partial meninsectomy when I way 19 yrs old. It is the regret of my life. Don't do it. You can look forward to a life of pain (If you are lucky, which I wasn't, the pain may be delayed by a few years after surgery)
can you explain what happened? i saw 3 docs and they're all recommending surgery
@@hanahlee9520 Trust you own instincts, you have three opinions from three surgeons I presume. You have had an MRI I presume. I guess you have given it time to heal and done extensive physio.
They are suggesting surgery for my 13yo daughter despite the fact they cant see a definitive tear on mri. They suspect there is one because of a cyst attached to meniscus.
@@robertb4075 I think cysts and scans are side issues. Its about symtoms and function. Also look at history, e.g. ankle injuries, activity level, stress. Then you have to decide what action to take, need to look at your options, surgical or non surgical option. You need to understand what risks (and benefit) each option carries.
There have been recent studies showing surgical partial menisectomy has not better outcome than physio
I’m so sorry to hear that, I have a few friends in the same position.
It seems common .
I’m also working through a radial tear that I made worse while snowboarding. An ortho originally wanted to cut. When I decided to mull it over, the surprise & him urging me to get it over with kinda gave away that he was looking for his fee - ….
A different ortho told me to focus on rehab and symptoms : if with rehab and strengthening there I’m functionally fine, that’s enough.
It’s important to protect the meniscus from further damage though, I think w means it’s weaker
Thank you very much for your help . I have a meniscus tear in both knees. I am so happy to hear it will heal and avoid what needs to avoid and keep up with what needs to do to ensure that meniscus will heal. ❤
That’s so good to hear you explained perfectly I’m going to have surgery I have pain almost 6 months no improvement thank you so much you’re so amazing
Sorry to hear about your situation but hope it improves soon!
My knee gets stuck in the bent position. I'm glad I have a better term- locking. As I'm currently not happy with my orthopedic surgeon, I'll be looking for another. He apparently doesn't care that my knee locks in the bent position and I use my hands to gently move my leg until I feel it unlock. There is sharp pain deep in the knee too.
Thanks for this information!
Tearing my ACL and meniscus for the 3rd time here - worth to check if there's posterior tibial slope in the knee causing the ACL to tear > destabilising the knee > other knee injuries
Thank you so much. You are very excellent at explaining all this. I have watched many videos, and you are really good and clear with this info !!!👍👍👍
Another excellent video. Thank you. I've had to cut back on my running, avoid swimming breaststroke, and do more leg stretches after cycling. I think I'm making slow progress to recovery.
Thanks for this Will…left knee did great now right knee is painfully locking up. After a few weeks of therapy PT recommends I get MRI. He thunks it may be a stuck flap of meniscus as you describe. I was fit and active until mid March and then my left knee blew up…my whole leg, thigh to ankle turned black and was filled with fluid from complex Baker’s cyst. That lead to discovering 2-4 OA with multiple meniscus tears. Worked through in PT in 2 1/2 months doing great then right knee swelled and shooting pain and locking up. MRI in 3 weeks. Likely OA in there too so I’m wanting to avoid making it worse. If there is a loose flap does that ever properly heal? I was an avid hiker and mountain biker before this. I do have missing 2” from left leg due to motorcycle accident. I’ve done well for 68 years and never anticipated not staying active.
Great video. Gutted as just been told I have a lateral meniscal tear, my knee is unable to straighten/extend fully naturally. Waiting for MRI appointment to confirm. Gutted and very low as walking running keep the demons at bay. Trying to get my head around it and very much NOT wanting surgery. Worried as my knee can’t straighten fully and can’t extend back naturally. Worrying I’ve got the worst bucket handle tear. Going to try all the strength training/rehab. Thank you so very much for your videos, super helpful! ❤
Take care!
Hi, how's your recovery going so far?
Very well presented. Thank you for your effort.
wow. Thank you!! This is my first help with this after 2 months of suffering . Walking!!! I ll do it!
Thanks for this info... I recently have acquired a torn meniscus in my left knee (possibly in the other knee as well), & your videos are helpful & explanatory.
Last November I was working in the yard, and had a tremendous pain spread across the back of the knee. I went down on the ground, grabbing my knee. ( a man came out and gave a red card to the tool I was using!).
Went to the ortho clinic and was told it was torn from the bone. Had a rerooting on Dec. 1st.
The recovery is working with PT and exercise.
Glad to hear you're getting better!
@@HT-Physio
2018 got an ACL injury / Meniscus tear of my right knee, never opted for surgery, the discomfort is still there and times it pains…
Can I still continue with PT and rehabilitative exercises as prescribed in you channel to strengthen the knee…
Don’t want to have a surgery if I can avoid it
Thank you so very much. Quite worried after slamming into a small metal gas cylinder and then fell to the floor two months ago. Terrible and excruciating pain. Kneecap painful and intensely numb. Hard lump on lower side of the knee. Swelling. Olfen patches and RICE help. Thanks again. Have a lovely day.
Very informative. Thank you.
fantastic, thanks ! I've been looking for clear info about the true length of time it takes for recovery. I have pain still in the 6th week of physio and DO NOT want a surgery. thanks, will continue with my FAB physio therapist.
Please make video on Patellofemoral signs, treatment and excercises. thank you
Great video! Very helpful information!
Very helpful, because it is a slow heal. I’m in month 5 and feel the very first indications that things are starting to improve. When I exercise more aggressively it just sets me back, and need to start over.
I am on month 8 with a torn meniscus. Same exact issue when I increase my exercises
@@amcnulty9024 ah me too, but I'm only in month 4. Physio said it would take 'a few weeks' to recover, but that has been over 2 months now. I was about to give up and get me a surgery, but somehow glad there's more in the same situation who are not giving up. Good luck
@@laurenso2229any update? I'm 1 year in
Your video has given me such hope. I’m 64, my knee gave way when I was running to hit a tennis ball. This was 3 weeks ago. My MRI showed a medial meniscus tear, said to be moderate to severe. The PA pushed for surgery without discussing rehab at all or what research says about success rate, or the possibility of harmful consequences. That was a red flag. I’ve been walking a couple of miles daily, doing some inclines, so far no locking, no giving way yet, discomfort maybe 1-2 out of 10. Seems like so many orthopedic offices push for surgery as a moneymaker. I’ll be watching for the symptoms you so adeptly pointed out and your book is coming. I would like to know can a medial meniscus tear in a 64 year old athlete heal? Does that senior age prevent healing in most cases? Will this be a permanent condition I’ll just have to learn to live with? I really want to play tennis! I realize playing singles is most likely out. Is pivoting a cause of medial meniscus tears? Thank you so much for your channel and expertise!🎾🌻
Really helpful advice, thank you.
1. Detached meniscus 2. Osteoarthritis. Paid for private physio, MRI, orthopaedic surgeon, had ACP treatment with hyaluronic acid into the joint (x3) - only lasted 2 months and v v expensive. Surgeon not happy to go with joint replacement yet as a new one will be needed a few years down the line (he doesn’t rate partial knee replacements at all). Came across a knee brace which gets 5* from me. (Made by Thuasne a French company - Action Reliever). It is prescribable on the NHS but my GP either couldn’t or wouldn’t, wanted to send me to the Ortho dept at the hospital (how long would that all take?). Carefully measured as described on the website, ordered the brace, it arrived the next day, followed the instructions to fit it - fantastic results, a god send after 12 months of miserable pain. Because I have a formal diagnosis I didn’t pay VAT - cost about £200. Money very well spent. I enjoy walking again.
The one problem I now have is I seem to have developed and allergy to the silicone doughnut around the patella but I am addressing that with cotton quilt wadding stitched inside.
Probably have to pay for my own replacement in time as the NHS disappears into the private sphere (RIP) but till then I keep moving, strengthening and cut out the biscuits! (Can’t dance any more though, which is a massive loss)
Really helpful films and useful exercises, thanks.
TY for the brace reference...my doc would not write a prescript for it...I have 2 different tear areas 9 months in. It has been hell. I do not want surgery or injections.
Thank you for sharing this video. Very helpful and easy to understand.
I was told that if I don't do the operation, I might get arthritis later in five years time but what I hear from watching your video is the other way round.....
Yes, it's confusing.
tc.. I'm just 10 days into my knee issue. Gp says medial miniscus tear and whilst I don't disagree with him I'm not convinced completely (no swelling, heat or redness but pain instability and weakness) so maybe a twist or sprain without tear. Anyway hoping to see a physio who can give a second opinion. In doing my research I would like to say that of all the videos etc I've seen on this subject your advice is the one i find reliable and well informed. thanks for that
You need to see an orthopedic specialist as well.
I had successful surgery for my meniscus tear, after i was getting the feeling something was floating in my knee. But several times a week that floating piece would get pinched between the two bones and cause a very sharp pain in the middle of the knee joint. I had to be extremely cautious all the time. Surgery was done and in a couple days i was back to normal activities.
That was certainly the best solution. Nevertheless, you have to be aware that something of the meniscus has probably been cut away, the edges have been smoothed and now some of the shock absorber meniscus is missing. Lifelong stretching and strengthening muscles, good nutrition are now still in vogue if you don't want to get osteoarthritis
That's so encouraging.
Great explanation. You got me wondering after your explanation of the different types and location of injury. My MRI report seems to go “all over”: “Multidirectionnal tear of the body and posterior horn of the medial miniscus with generation of 2 meniscal flaps the larger one displaced in the medial femoral gutter and the second in the intercongylar notch posteriorly.” Thats not what worries me. It’s accompanied by:”Tricompartmental chondrapathy, worse in the medial compartment”. Translation : Osteoarthritis? I don’t have any lock up issues or unwanted movements. Question: arthroscopy to fix the meniscus? Or straight to knee replacement?(because of osteoarthritis). I am 63 years old and very active.
Great video!!
I appreciate it!!
Really good explanation & super helpful, thanks
Thanks for the kind words!
Thank you very much for your valuable information.
Very helpful, thankyou for this, and the 2 other videos I have viewed this evening on meniscus tears. Confirms my thoughts on what happened to my knee to cause pain, and very helpful on knowing how to proceed. Margaret 78 UK 😊
I'm pleased my video was able to shed some light on what you are experiencing! I'm wishing you all the best going forward ☺️
Very informative and helpful video. I am trying to decide whether to proceed with surgery for a medial tear and this helps put things in perspective. Thank you
Found out I have a medial meniscus bucket handle tear. Happened during BJJ. Physio said nothing about waiting to see will it heal. Just told me I need surgery. I'd rather avoid that if possible.
Gosh, I hope you can get a second opinion!
Здравствуйте ответьте пожалуйста как вы сейчас? Я сам оказался в такой же ситуации год уже хромаю болит
50% radial tear, surgery or rehab? Doesn’t lock up, or give out. Walking no limp. Cycling ok. Running hurts. TiA!!
What about when your knee meets resistance when bending beyond a certain degree?
Great video doc. I suffered a tear at age 52 sprinting and its taken some time to feel better.
Pleased to hear it is improving!
Здравствуйте ответьте пожалуйста как вы сейчас чувствуете себя? Вам удалось восстановиться вы можете бегать как раньше? У меня точно такая же ситуация год уже хромаю болит. Теряю надежду что смогу бегать как раньше
That was a great very simply explained detailed explanation. I love all of your videos. Thank you
Always interesting to listen to, even tough I don't think I have this condition. Thanks Will. I would like to ask you something ( which is off topic, sorry): Is forward tilted pelvis something that is part of your area of expertise and do you think you could do a video about this topic ; like, how to identify it, and how to potentially fix it please? Thanks again for sharing your knowledge through these very instructive videos.
i hated when my locked up when my knee was bent, it was a mental game over and over. always in the worst times it seemed also..
you have answered several questions I have had. Thank you.
So pleased to hear this!
I have had injury 3 years now it nearly gets better after many weeks then bam the next day pain again , so frustrating, I am now experimenting with electric gardening and have researched earthing the body and have combined the two with a copper cable stuck in the ground and coiled clockwise around the leg with more turns around the knee area , 30 mins a day I find the pain reduces somewhat as an experiment it’s in early stages, I also have placed a steel cable with a magnet one end fixed magnetic north under my mattress and I find this helps also. Placing a woollen hat or scarf under the joint of the knee when lying on your back sleeping creates localised heat and this also has helped reduce pain . Crazy maybe but who cares if perhaps it works time will tell. I cycle 7 miles a day this also helps with leg motion as long as not much pressure with strong head wind or steep gradients. I find walking hurts more running impossible. I have flat feet now here is the dilemma, I had some insoles made to create better posture but part of me thinks that they inhibit the healing of the meniscus as I was born flat footed the bones and muscles grew to compensate naturally
So now what to do, perhaps dispense with the insoles and see what happens.
Well I got 2 out of the 3 going on right now my knee is constantly giving out and it completely locks multiple times a day. It’s absolutely torture
very helpful information. Thank you!
Your very good at explaining all this and ty!
Very happy to help!
I had surgery yesterday I didn’t have lock in my knee but it kept getting very swollen . Did it 4 times before I had surgery . I waited since March . Had surgery in august
My doctor said it wouldn’t heal in its own. He also said he found arthritis in my knee. He told me I would be like new after surgery. Now after seeing video I am 2nd guessing my decision
Thank you so much,ur videos helped me a lot .
What about meniscus repair??
This video is gold! Thank you!
Glad you enjoyed it!
Hi Will, I’ve just had an X-ray and my GP has said I don’t have the shock absorber! It’s worn away, she’s suggested cortisone injection for now! Only 54 so no option for a knee replacement at this point! Can you recommend anything? I’m at my wits end as I’m a very keen hiker and want to continue doing long distance hikes in the future! Thanks for all your great videos, they are so helpful 😊
Wow thank you and you have made me feel better about not to have surgery
You're welcome!
Hi, is there any evidence that using collagen may help? Thanks.
Most of us get arthritis in our joints whether we have surgery or not!!!
Hoping for video about disc desiccation 🙏🏻
Thats definitely me been knee injury for 2 yrs and still not showing can get better
Sorry to hear that and hope it improves for you soon!
I injured my knee 13 wks ago. X-ray shows no fracture or significant arthritis. MRI shows complex radial medial meniscus tear, Baker's cyst, loose bodies. bone bruise & soft tissue edema. Still very extremely painful I've had knee locking & a episode of 3 hrs of stabbing pain in the medial area. Thought I would go crazy. I have a brace, compression hose, & started PT. My DR mentioned a cortisone shot & then surgery if not better. Just an awful, painful injury, and no easy solution.
What happened then?
@@saoumoyaghosh8635 I'm having surgery a partial meniscectomy on Nov 22, this coming wk. The day before Thanksgiving. It continues to be a nightmare injury, very painful. So hope I will get a huge benefit & relief after the surgery. The cortisone shot was no help. It's been 6 mos. since the injury!
Wish you a speedy recovery 🙏
@@saoumoyaghosh8635 Thank you. I'm hoping your injury (?) is doing better, too. If you have one!
How did your surgery go? Did it help? I am due to have surgery in a few weeks and I am on the fence about it. According to MRI it is an extensive medial tear at roo horn. I have pain, but it has subsided a lot.
Thanks for sharing Doc.
My pleasure!
Thank you ✌🏼
Thank u… u helped me a lot..
Thank you sir.
Should a person consider surgery if pain is off and on for over a year and the knee swells constantly? Job requires a lot of time on their feet? They have lateral meniscus tear.
My left meniscus tomorrow, its got a tear, my right knee is shattered, but i can walk, my shin and femur are splintered, hows that work?
i had a meniscus debridement in my left knee in like 2007 (i was 17) and i haven't had many issues with it since then (i'm now 34) i have recently just injured my right knee to the point where i have constant pain every day and makes it hard to sleep, i actuslly opted out of a meniscus surgery in my right knee in like 2018 cause i was smoking a lot of weed and it scared me lol, but i am now considering the debridement on my right knee again as it's getting too painful/annoying.
I'm booked in Feb! Haha just watching heaps of vids on it
@@Telor1998 good luck friend! hope you make a quick and full recovery!
Tore my meniscus in my left knee over 2 yo still as painful as ever can't afford to go private so waiting for NHS to do it's thing. HNS said I'm way down the list. Have chronic arthritis in the right knee doc said I need a replacement knee joint that was 5 year's ago, was told I will have at least another 2 to 3 year wait for that op as well. In the mean time I'm hobbling around on crutches and pain killers but living in hope that once the torys are out of office the waiting lists may finally start moving optimistically looking at 4 years from now which will make 70 yo.
I’m so sorry you’re going through that. Italians have the same problem with their socialized medical care. People wait 6 months to see a doctor! I wish you well!💐
I’ve recently been getting pain around this muscle. Excruciating pain until it clicks then it’s ok
I have tears in both my knees I been in pain for a year my doctor says they don't want to do surgery I can barely walk
I am a cricket lover.
The first time I twisted my knee was almost 17-18 years ago while batting. The pain was so severe and quick that i felt like i was shot with bullet, because when i shot the ball to my left, my right knee got planted on ground and my upped bodh rotated to left. My knee was severely swollen. I didng go to doctor, and it got resolved in a month. Sadly same thing happened again 3-4 times again during playing cricket. Now i get same pain even after walking or squatting in gym. Now i feel lump behind my knee and tightness. i also feel knocking sound. Dont know what to do.
I am 73 years old and was just diagnosed with a meniscus tear and its going on for 3 months. I am doing some exercise for meniscus tear but it effects my ankle. My sports doctor said my ankle swelling is from the meniscus tear, because my knee swells up it drains to my ankle. My ankle tends to be more painful and annoying. My doctor recommends surgery and my knees from x-rays show they are very healthy. I do not have arthritis in my knee, I know when I had the incident, it was when I was on the trend mill and I was distracted. What are your thoughts?
Thank you sir will.
You may have minimal damage and have no improvement after a year, but that should not mean surgery as the outcome of surgery can mean major limitations.
Very good video
TY!
Ticking sound while walking. Is it common?
Thank you for the excellent videos. Regarding a medial meniscus root tear… Do you agree or disagree with the articles and surgeons who say pretty much every patient with MMRT who is a good candidate (not too much arthritis yet) should have the repair surgery? And not even try conservative treatment and strengthening
Me knee gave way on 2/4/23 with extreme pain without warning, I have had both scraped around 14 years ago & they have been fine. I went for a mri scan & this is the report........Intact lateral meniscus & cruciate ligaments. There is a horizontal cleavage tear through the posterior horn of the medial meniscus contacting the superior & interior articulating margin. No displacement is seen but the medial meniscus is extruded. There is full-thickness medial tibiofemoral compartment chondral loss with articulating bony margin marrow oedema & subchondral cystic change. Intact lateral tibiofemoral compartment cartilage, patellar tendon, extensor mechanism & retropatellar cartilage with subtle surface fraying & incomplete fissuring within the apex. No frank osteochondral lesion seen. No fracture present. Small volume joint effusion. End of report. I am still in pain & can not put any compression on the knee without pain, I walk with a limp & dis comfort. What sort of treatment will I need? I am 58 years old & would like to return to how I was before all this happened. Thanks Steven.
Very well explained … 👍👍👍👍
Thank you ☺️
3:55 video starts
I have had the tear for 6 months and its just getting worse, but, its not locking or giving way, its just sore to bend or straighten and now even in bed its sore, and when I wake up during the night its hard to get back to sleep, I dont want to have surgery but I dont see it getting any better
What about a bucket handle meniscus tear ? I can’t straighten my leg all the way . What should I do
I am 68, stage 4 arthritis only in right knee, locks once a week and will become normal after a couple of hours of complete rest. I am not sure if i go for TKR.
I m suffering from knee meniscus tear
My knee MRI showed horizontal tear in the posterior horn of the medial meniscus. It has been over 5 months since the initial injury. With around only 5-10% improvement in pain since then. 😢 I have been doing some physio on my own. Does taking collagen, glucosamine, chondroitin and MSM facilitate repair of the ligament? will daily warm compress help with the blood flow to the medial meniscus? thanks so much
My knee has a painful popping sound..slightly pops out of place.
Had surgery 1 1/2 years ago for a medial root tear. It was reattached with some type of suture. Didn’t heal so still having pain and stiffness. Had a cortisone injection and it helped for around 5 months. No arthritis so far and when I do start to develop it my doc says next procedure is knee replacement. Not looking forward to that. Find your videos very helpful.
@marywalrath4897 Try PRP knee injections and after a round of treatments do HA injection s
how did u decide to do the repair vs partial meniscectomy where they shave it off?
Would acupuncture help with the healing of a lateral miniscus tear? I wondered if it would help increase the blood flow to the area to which may help the healing process?
My knee clicks going down the stairs after a meniscus tear. Is there anyway to fix this? Do clicks tend to go away?
Did clicks ever go away
Nope, An audible an click comes and goes. It's a radial tear as confirmed by the MRI. @@brynphillips3018
Do you have the sme problem?@@brynphillips3018
Thanks for your videos. My right knee had 'sting' playing ball and very sore for 2 weeks. Since during COVID 2020, I couldn't get surgery anyway as MRI showed "complex" tears and 'new' and 'old'. I was age 58. Good news was as you say, after ~10 months, knee got stronger with only mild pain. Bad news is 2 years lately (and more hoops/pickleball) it's been aggravated to point of any activity creates outside knee stiffness, and pain done to foot. I'm guessing tear is worse. There is also grade 3 arthritis. So question - considering another MRI, as pinching/stinging after mild exercise is painful, but ortho guys at this point just simply say "age ~60, arthritis in knee, recommend only injections, or worse replacement'. My gut tells me scope to repair and or remove 'parts' would help. Comments? (I've done chiro work, softwave, knee traction and various other exercise). I can't jog, only 'gimp' down court...6'2 200 lbs Thanks!
You should've talked about meniscus repair surgery too😮 because that's good right obv menisectomy is bad but what about a repair surgery
Dr, you forgot to tell people to avoid stairs when having a Meniscus tear. Especially going down. Is it ok to go up the stairs for a few steps like say 10, had an ultrasound done a month ago and went back to see my caretaker and I said this wrong I don't have pain in the lateral of the knee I have pain in the medial so we did another ultrasound and sure enough whoever read the last ultrasound was either on drugs because it was not my knee. so we did another ultrasound and it came back with my knee's results. I will go back to the clinic where I had the ultrasound done and address this mix-up. thanks for listening.
Would you need surgery if a meniscal cyst is present? Is the cyst an indication that the meniscus injury is serious?
I got the same with a cyst. How are you now?
I had knee surgery for a meniscus tear at age 20 I'm now 51yrs life of pain if i had this info yrs ago i would not have done it
I'm so sorry to hear this that must be incredibly difficult to have to deal with - I'm wishing you all the best in the future!
Hi i got surgery recently at 22, could I ask you some questions? I’m really worried about my knee in the long-term
Hi ,would you recommend Glucosamine & Chondroitin?
He said in another video that glucosamine is not recommended because it doesn't help, but curcumin with piperine, omega 3 bioalgae oil and 3 mg boron daily