meniscus Tears
Understanding Your Meniscus and Treatment Options
This page provides information about the meniscus, its injuries, and treatment options, including surgical procedures performed by Dr. James Jackson, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with extensive experience in sports medicine and meniscal surgery.
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1. Anatomy of the Meniscus:
The meniscus is a C-shaped (or sometimes more circular) piece of cartilage in the knee joint. You have two menisci in each knee:
* Medial Meniscus: Located on the inner part of the knee.
* Lateral Meniscus: Located on the outer part of the knee.
These menisci sit between the femur (thigh bone) and the tibia (shin bone), acting as cushions and stabilizers.
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2. Function of the Meniscus:
The menisci play several crucial roles in knee function:
* Shock Absorption: They distribute the weight and impact forces, protecting the joint cartilage from wear and tear.
* Stability: They help stabilize the knee joint, preventing excessive movement and reducing the risk of other injuries.
* Lubrication: They contribute to joint lubrication, allowing for smooth and painless knee movement.
* Proprioception: They provide feedback to the brain about the knee's position and movement, contributing to balance and coordination.
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3. How a Meniscus is Damaged:
Meniscal tears are common knee injuries, often occurring due to:
* Twisting or pivoting motions: Especially when the foot is planted and the knee is bent. This is common in sports like basketball, soccer, and tennis.
* Direct impact: A blow to the knee can also cause a meniscal tear.
* Degeneration: As we age, the menisci can weaken and become more prone to tears, even with minor trauma.
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4. Meniscal Surgery:
Dr. James Jackson is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon who completed a sports medicine fellowship and has performed hundreds of meniscal surgeries. He will determine the best course of treatment based on the type and severity of your tear, your age, activity level, and overall health. Common surgical procedures include:
* Meniscal Repair: When possible, Dr. Jackson prioritizes repairing the meniscus to preserve its important functions. This involves suturing the torn edges of the meniscus back together. Repair is more successful with certain tear types and in younger patients.
* Partial Meniscectomy: If the meniscus tear is too complex or degenerative to be repaired, Dr. Jackson may perform a partial meniscectomy, where the damaged portion of the meniscus is removed.
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5. Types of Meniscal Tears:
Meniscal tears are classified based on their location and pattern:
* Radial Tear: A tear radiating outward from the inner edge of the meniscus.
* Horizontal Tear: A tear along the inner or outer edge of the meniscus.
* Vertical Tear: A tear running parallel to the inner or outer edge of the meniscus.
* Bucket-Handle Tear: A large, displaced tear that can block knee movement.
* Complex Tear: A tear with multiple patterns.
* Degenerative Tear: A tear caused by wear and tear over time.
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6. Dr. James Jackson's Expertise:
Dr. James Jackson is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in sports medicine. He has extensive experience in diagnosing and treating meniscal tears. His sports medicine fellowship provided him with advanced training in the latest surgical techniques. Dr. Jackson has successfully performed hundreds of meniscal surgeries, utilizing both repair and meniscectomy procedures based on individual patient needs. He is committed to providing personalized care and helping patients return to their active lifestyles. He will thoroughly evaluate your condition and discuss the most appropriate treatment plan for you.
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Contact Dr. James Jackson's office today to schedule a consultation and discuss your knee pain.