Effective Treatment of Meniscus Tears in Düsseldorf

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:

  • stabilizing the knee joint
  • enabling leg movements
  • reducing the weight exerted on the knee joint
  • cushioning movements within the knee joint
  • protecting the joint cartilage by reducing friction

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.

Causes of a Meniscus Tear

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.

Symptoms of a meniscus tear

Symptoms 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.

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The Treatment for a Meniscus Tear

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.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)


Some meniscus tears, especially those on the outer edge of the meniscus where there is good blood supply, can heal on their own. Small tears can often heal with rest and appropriate conservative treatments such as physical therapy.
The healing time for a meniscus tear can vary and depends on the size and location of the tear as well as the treatment. Typically, it can take several weeks to months.
Symptoms of a meniscus tear can include knee pain, swelling, a feeling of stiffness, limited range of motion, or a noticeable clicking or locking in the knee.
Walking is often still possible, but it can be painful and may worsen the symptoms. Rest or activity modification is usually recommended.
An untreated meniscus tear can lead to a worsening condition, including increased pain, chronic knee instability, and long-term damage such as osteoarthritis.
A knee brace can help support and stabilize the knee, especially during activities, but it should be used in combination with other treatment methods such as physical therapy.
Whether surgery is necessary depends on the type of tear and the severity of the symptoms. For severe or persistent symptoms that do not respond to conservative treatments, surgery may be recommended.
Cycling can often be suitable as a low-impact activity since it puts less strain on the knee compared to running or jumping. However, it should be individually adjusted and performed under the guidance of a professional.
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