Can a Meniscus Tear Heal on Its Own?

A meniscus tear is one of the most common knee injuries. Think of it as your knee’s version of a paper cut, except it hurts more and you might need crutches. But can a meniscus tear heal on its own or will you need surgery? Here’s the scoop.

Meniscus tears affect about 1 million people yearly in the United States. Your knee has a built-in shock absorber called the meniscus, a C-shaped piece of cartilage that helps cushion your joint. But if you twist it with an awkward squat, pivot, hit, or weekend warrior training, bam — it can tear. Cue the pain, swelling, and that weird locked-knee feeling.

See Dr. Kevin O’Donnell at Revitalize Regenerative Orthopedics LLC, conveniently located in the Denver metropolitan area, if you suspect a meniscus tear based on your symptoms.

Signs of a meniscus tear

The following symptoms may indicate a meniscus tear:

Knee stiffness, swelling, and pain
Popping sensation
Pain when rotating or twisting your knee
Feeling like your knee is locked in place
Problems fully straightening your knee

Age-related degeneration can also lead to a meniscus tear. It might take about 24 hours or longer for swelling and pain to appear after tearing a meniscus, particularly if the tear is small.

Visit with Dr. O’Donnell for an evaluation at the first sign of a problem to determine if you need surgery for a torn meniscus.

Can meniscus tears heal on their own?

Meniscus tears don’t always require surgery, especially if the tear is small. To know if you’re a candidate for surgery or conservative treatment, Dr. O’Donnell discusses your symptoms, medical history, lifestyle, and treatment preferences.

He also evaluates your knee, assesses your range of motion, and orders imaging tests like an MRI or X-rays to determine the full extent of your injury. Arthroscopy is another diagnostic procedure that uses a scope to view the inside of your knee.

Ways to treat meniscus tears

Numerous conservative treatments help enhance healing of a meniscus tear without surgery. Examples include:

Rest, ice, elevation, and compression (RICE)
Medications
Physical therapy
Focused shockwave therapy
Radial shockwave therapy (EPAT®)
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP)
Massage
Stem cell therapy
Prolotherapy
Joint injections

However, if conservative treatments haven’t eased the discomfort or your injury is severe, Dr. O’Donnell may recommend surgery.

The majority of people with a torn meniscus fully recover and enjoy all of their favorite activities after healing is complete.

Ways to reduce the risk of further knee injuries include strengthening muscles supporting your knee, wearing a brace if your knee is unstable, exercising regularly (but avoid overtraining), and wearing comfortable and appropriate footwear.

To diagnose a meniscus tear, heal effectively from an injury, and get back on your feet, contact us at Revitalize Regenerative Orthopedics LLC today by calling the office or booking an appointment online.