A meniscus tear is a common knee injury that occurs when the rubbery cartilage discs in the knee joint are damaged. If you experience pain, swelling, stiffness, and limited range of motion, especially after sports injuries or sudden twisting motions, please consult Dr. Gelber to explore your treatment options to resolve a meniscus tear in Burbank.
A meniscus tear is a prevalent knee injury characterized by damage to the menisci, two crescent-shaped cartilage discs that cushion and stabilize the knee joint. These rubbery structures can tear due to sudden twisting movements, sports activities, or wear and tear over time. When torn, they cause pain, swelling, and stiffness and often restrict the knee’s full range of motion. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent long-term joint damage.
For less common symptoms of a meniscus tear in Burbank, please contact our office.
If you suspect a meniscus tear, the first step is to consult an orthopedic surgeon like Dr. Gelber for proper evaluation. The diagnostic process typically involves a physical examination, where Dr. Gelber will assess your knee’s range of motion and tenderness. Imaging tests like MRI scans may be ordered to confirm the diagnosis and determine the tear’s severity, following which Dr. Gelber will curate a personalized treatment plan.
In some cases, Dr. Gelber may recommend regenerative treatments like Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) or stem cell injections. PRP injections involve using your blood’s concentrated platelets to stimulate natural healing in the injured meniscus. Stem cell injections use specialized cells that can develop into various tissue types to reduce inflammation and repair a meniscus tear in Burbank.
Functional and integrative approaches focus on holistic healing. Dr. Gelber may suggest physical therapy to strengthen the muscles surrounding the knee, providing added support and reducing stress on the meniscus. Dietary and lifestyle changes and natural supplements may also be part of this approach to optimize overall joint health.
When conservative methods don’t yield the desired results, or if the tear is severe, Dr. Gelber might recommend arthroscopic surgery. This minimally invasive procedure involves using a tiny camera and specialized tools to trim or repair the damaged meniscus. It’s typically considered a last resort when other options have been exhausted.
A meniscus tear is often caused by twisting or rotating the knee forcefully, especially during sports or physical activities. It can also occur due to aging and degeneration of the cartilage, making it more susceptible to tears from minor movements.
A meniscus tear is diagnosed through a physical examination where the doctor assesses knee movement, stability, and pain. Imaging tests such as MRI or X-rays may be used to confirm the tear and determine its severity.
Small meniscus tears may heal on their own with rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE), along with physical therapy. However, larger or more severe tears often require medical intervention, including surgery, to fully recover.
Recovery time after meniscus tear surgery varies but typically ranges from 4 to 6 weeks for minor surgeries like partial meniscectomy. More extensive surgeries, such as meniscus repair, may require 3 to 6 months for full recovery, depending on individual factors.
Physical therapy aids recovery by strengthening the muscles around the knee, improving flexibility, and restoring range of motion.
Dr. Jonathan Gelber is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon who prioritizes patient-centered care. He actively listens to your concerns and tailors bespoke treatments to your unique needs. His goal is to help you return to an active and pain-free lifestyle. Instead of simply offering temporary pain relief, he focuses on whole-body wellness, helping you achieve and maintain optimal mobility. Schedule your consultation with Dr. Gelber to initiate your journey to recovery and resolve your meniscus tear in Burbank once and for all.
Dr. Jonathan Gelber of LA Ortho & Wellness provides comprehensive orthopedics, blending functional and integrative medicine for the LA area.
