Meniscus Tears Treated at Mercy in Baltimore

At Mercy Medical Center, our orthopedic specialists help patients suffering with knee pain from injuries like meniscus tears. Patients from across the Baltimore region trust Mercy’s orthopedic specialists and sports medicine surgeons for their expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of knee injuries. 

ggp20210711_0844.jpg
About Meniscus Tears
The meniscus cartilage is a firm, rubbery textured tissue in the knee that works as a shock absorber during high impact activities. The meniscus can tear with a twisting motion such as a sudden change in direction. The meniscus can tear as a part of the regular aging process, known as a degenerative tear.
Symptoms & Diagnosis

Meniscus tear symptoms include:

  • Pain
  • Swelling
  • Locking of the knee in one position
  • Sensation of instability

Meniscus tears can be diagnosed by an orthopedic specialist who will perform a physical exam to test for range of motion and knee stability. X-rays and MRIs also may be conducted to help diagnose a meniscus tear.

Treatment Options for Meniscus Tears

Some meniscus tears may heal on their own but others need treatment including:

  • Rest
  • Anti-inflammatory medications
  • Cortisone shots

Arthroscopic surgery may be the best treatment option for some meniscus tears. Usually acute tears in younger patients may be successfully repaired with surgery. Typically degenerative tears require the torn piece of meniscus tissue be surgically removed.

The Orthopedic Specialty Hospital at Mercy combines surgical expertise and advanced technologies to offer renowned Centers focused on a full range of bone and joint conditions, injury care, joint preservation and orthopedic reconstruction surgery.