Knee Conditions

Meniscus Tear Treatment

Expert treatment for meniscus tears from board-certified orthopedic surgeon Dr. Daniel Feghhi. Learn about symptoms, treatment options, and minimally invasive surgical solutions.

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Board Certified
Fellowship Trained
15+ Years Experience
Doctor shows anatomy of structure of human knee joint
Understanding Meniscus Tears

What Is a Meniscus Tear?

A meniscus tear is one of the most common knee injuries, affecting the rubbery cartilage that cushions the shinbone from the thighbone.

Types of Tears

Common tear patterns include radial, horizontal, bucket-handle, and complex tears. The type determines treatment options and recovery time.

Causes

Tears occur from acute trauma (sports injuries) or degenerative changes in older adults. Twisting motions while bearing weight is a common cause.

Risk Factors

Athletes, older adults, and those with previous knee injuries face higher risk. Sports involving pivoting increase the likelihood of tears.

Anatomy

Each knee has two menisci - medial (inside) and lateral (outside). They provide stability, cushioning, and nutrition to the knee joint.

Healing Potential

The outer third of the meniscus has blood supply and can heal. The inner two-thirds lack blood supply and typically require surgical intervention.

Treatment Goals

Treatment aims to relieve pain, restore function, and prevent long-term complications like arthritis. Dr. Feghhi creates personalized treatment plans.

Who Is at Risk?

Athletes (especially football, basketball, soccer), older adults (degenerative tears), and anyone performing activities involving twisting motions.

Recognition & Diagnosis

Symptoms & Diagnosis

Recognizing the signs of a meniscus tear and getting proper diagnosis is essential for effective treatment.

Common Symptoms

Pain

Sharp pain along the joint line, especially when twisting or squatting. Pain may be intermittent or constant.

Swelling

Knee swelling that develops gradually over hours or days after the injury. May come and go with activity.

Locking

The knee may catch or lock, making it difficult to straighten or bend fully. A physical block prevents full motion.

Limited Range of Motion

Difficulty fully bending or straightening the knee. May feel stiff or tight, especially after activity.

Giving Way

The knee may feel unstable or give way, especially when walking on uneven surfaces or changing direction.

Diagnostic Methods

Physical Examination

Dr. Feghhi will perform specific tests including McMurray's test, joint line tenderness, and evaluate range of motion and stability.

X-Rays

Used to rule out fractures, arthritis, and other bone conditions. Does not show meniscus tears directly.

MRI Scan

The gold standard for diagnosing meniscus tears. Shows the exact location, type, and size of the tear, plus other soft tissues.

Arthroscopy

In some cases, a minimally invasive arthroscope is used both to diagnose and treat the tear in one procedure.

Treatment Options

Treatment for Meniscus Tears

Dr. Feghhi offers comprehensive treatment options for meniscus tears, from conservative management to minimally invasive surgery.

Conservative (Non-Surgical) Treatments

RICE Method

Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation to reduce swelling and pain in the initial healing phase.

Medications

NSAIDs and pain relievers to manage inflammation and discomfort during recovery.

Physical Therapy

Customized exercises to strengthen muscles around the knee and improve stability.

Cortisone Injections

Can provide temporary relief from inflammation and pain to facilitate rehabilitation.

Surgical Treatments

Meniscus Repair

Suturing the torn meniscus to preserve the cartilage. Best for tears in the outer zone with blood supply.

  • Preserves meniscus
  • Better long-term outcomes
  • Delays arthritis

Partial Meniscectomy

Removal of the torn portion of the meniscus. Quicker recovery than repair, but removes some cushioning.

  • Fast recovery
  • Immediate pain relief
  • High success rate

Arthroscopic Surgery

Minimally invasive technique using small incisions and a camera to visualize and treat the tear.

  • Small incisions
  • Outpatient procedure
  • Faster return to activity

Meniscus Transplant

For young patients with previous meniscus removal. Donor meniscus replaces the missing tissue.

  • Restores cushioning
  • Prevents arthritis
  • Active lifestyle option

Rehabilitation

Post-surgical physical therapy is essential for recovery, focusing on strength and range of motion.

  • Customized program
  • Gradual progression
  • Return to sport protocols

PRP Therapy

Platelet-rich plasma injections may promote healing in some meniscus tears, especially in younger patients.

  • Natural healing
  • Minimally invasive
  • Low risk
Patient Reviews

What Our Meniscus Tear Patients Say

Real stories from patients who recovered from meniscus tears with Dr. Feghhi.

"After years of knee pain, Dr. Feghhi diagnosed and treated my meniscus tear. The minimally invasive surgery had me walking the same day. Incredible results!"

- Sarah L.
Meniscus Repair

"I was facing potential disability from a severe meniscus tear. Dr. Feghhi's arthroscopic repair was seamless, and the recovery was much faster than I expected. Highly recommend!"

- Robert K.
Meniscus Repair Surgery

"My knee pain from a meniscus tear was affecting my job as a construction worker. Dr. Feghhi's comprehensive treatment plan has me back on the job fully!"

- Michael D.
Meniscus Treatment

"As a weekend warrior, a meniscus tear seemed like the end of my sports. Dr. Feghhi's arthroscopic repair got me back to basketball in just 3 months!"

- Thomas R.
Meniscus Repair
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Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to the most common questions about meniscus tears.

Can a meniscus tear heal on its own?

Will I need crutches after meniscus surgery?

Can I play sports after a meniscus tear?

What happens if a meniscus tear is not treated?

How is a meniscus tear different from an ACL tear?

Ready to Get Back to Active Living?

Don't let a meniscus tear keep you from doing what you love. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Daniel Feghhi today and get expert treatment to return to your active lifestyle.

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Our Locations

Visit Our New Jersey Offices

Dr. Feghhi sees patients at multiple convenient locations throughout New Jersey.

Dover

400 W Blackwell St
Dover, NJ 07801

(973) 494-8244

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East Brunswick

East Brunswick, NJ

(973) 494-8244

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Elizabeth

Elizabeth, NJ

(973) 494-8244

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Hackensack

Hackensack, NJ

(973) 494-8244

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Wayne

Wayne, NJ

(973) 494-8244

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