The meniscus refers to the crescent-shaped tissue disc located in the knee joints between the thigh and shin. Each knee joint has an outer and inner meniscus, which consists of about 90% cartilage tissue. The functions of the meniscus include:
A meniscus tear in Düsseldorf, also known as meniscus damage, meniscus lesion, or meniscus rupture, refers to damage or injury to the outer and/or inner meniscus. Tears in the inner meniscus are more common than in the outer meniscus.
A meniscus tear can be caused either traumatically (due to an accident) or degeneratively (due to wear and tear or overuse). A traumatic meniscus tear often occurs in the context of sports injuries, dislocations of the knee joint, or sudden twisting movements with abrupt stops, such as in football, tennis, or skiing.
In many cases, a meniscus tear is due to degenerative changes. The cause is usually age-related joint wear or chronic overloading of the knee joint, for example, due to being overweight or frequently working in a deep squat. This constant overloading can cause small tears in the cartilage tissue, leading to a meniscus tear. Congenital malformations of the meniscus, which can arise from leg misalignments such as knock-knees or bowlegs, also represent a possible cause of a meniscus tear.
An accident-related meniscus tear typically manifests at the moment of the accident through acute pain and swelling in the knee joint area. This is often followed by a blockage of the knee joint, making it impossible to fully extend or bend the knee.
A wear- or overload-related meniscus tear primarily causes pain in the knee joint that occurs under load, painful movement restrictions, or even a feeling of instability. A traumatic meniscus tear can also lead to knee osteoarthritis in the long term.
Your orthopedist in Düsseldorf can treat a meniscus tear both conservatively and surgically. In conservative meniscus treatment, the focus is primarily on relieving the menisci, medication-based pain therapy, or physiotherapy.
Depending on the type and extent of a meniscus tear, surgical treatment options may also be considered. These include, for example, meniscus suturing, partial meniscectomy/meniscus smoothing, or meniscus replacement.
Which form of treatment for a meniscus tear in Düsseldorf is suitable for you can be discussed together in our practice. You can also use our online appointment scheduling or call us directly during our office hours at the respective practice phone number. We are always happy to assist you.