Clearwater, FL - (727) 462-5582
Beverly Hills, CA - (310) 975-7033

Torn Meniscus

Clearwater, Tampa, St Petersburg, Florida

The knee is a very complicated joint, comprised of the large thigh bone or femur articulating with the lower leg bone or tibia. In between the two bones is the meniscus – a C-shaped fibro-cartilaginous structure. In each knee joint there are two meniscus – the medial on the inside and the lateral on the outside of the leg. Meniscuses are frequently associated with injury and can be a source of chronic knee pain.

A torn meniscus is a very common injury in sports, especially contact sports. However, anyone at any age can tear a meniscus. This office has treated people well into their 70’s and 80’s, who have spontaneously torn their meniscus without associated traumatic event. When most people say they have torn cartilage in their knee, they are referring to a torn meniscus.

Types of meniscal tears

picture of the types of knee meniscal tears

A torn meniscus previously has been treated with open surgical intervention, and more recently with arthroscopic techniques.

Symptoms of a Torn Meniscus

The symptoms of a torn meniscus may occur with an acute pop or painful sensation. This is usually associated with knee stiffness and swelling, and frequently with locking, or the knee giving way. Frequently, the range of motion of the knee is affected. A skilled physician in a proper physical examination may diagnose a torn meniscus, but overt swelling, initially in the acute phase, often hinders this. X-rays do not show meniscal tears as they are soft tissue structures and are not bony. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is useful in evaluating meniscal tears, as well as ultrasound imaging.

Ultrasound has a benefit when performing diagnostic and therapeutic injections such as visco supplementation or corticosteroid injections to decrease inflammation. Surgical repair can be necessary if the knee does not respond to conservative measures such as physical therapy.

Alternative Treatment for Torn Meniscus

Alternative treatment for torn meniscus focuses on regenerating the torn part of the meniscus through platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and stem cell therapy. Some surgeons are combining the two techniques: trimming the torn part of the meniscus, then filling the defect (the removed area) with normal tissue from the body through platelet-rich plasma (PRP) or stem cell technology. Often times, the roughen surface of a torn meniscus may need to be surgically modified to make it a smooth surface. However, the body’s own regenerative powers can often fix this, aided by the newer techniques of platelet-rich plasma or stem cell therapy.

With platelet-rich plasma (PRP), the healing or growth factors in a person’s own blood are captured and injected into the knee. This may help to heal and regenerate the damaged meniscal segment.

Additionally, stem cell therapy may help regrow the injured cartilage. Stem cells can be processed from either a person’s abdominal fat or bone marrow. Once processed, the stem cells are directed into the torn meniscus using a variety of techniques.

Platelet-rich plasma and stem cell therapy are innovative and cutting-edge treatment techniques that may help repair chronic or acutely damaged meniscal problems.

If you suffer with chronic knee pain caused by a torn meniscus and your current treatment plan leaves you wanting more options, perhaps a fresh set of experienced eyes can change your outlook. Since 1990, Dennis M. Lox, M.D has applied his personal interests in sports medicine, cutting-edge regenerative medicine and chronic pain management to helping patients increase their quality of life. Contact us for an appointment at 727-462-5582.

All statements, information or opinions provided by this website are provided for educational purposes only. We do not diagnose nor treat through this website or by telephone. As you consider any treatment, discuss them with your physician.

Regarding platelet-rich plasma or stem cell therapy: Neither statements nor treatments have been evaluated by the FDA. We do not claim that these treatments work for any listed or unlisted condition. Patient testimonials offer only the patient’s impression of how a therapy worked for them – individual results will vary; results are not guaranteed nor warranteed. As you consider any treatment, discuss them with your physician.

Are You Looking to Avoid Surgery?

If you haven't found joint relief should schedule a personal consultation with Dennis M. Lox, M.D., to learn if you are able to get joint relief without the need for invasive surgery.

Stem Cell Therapy in Clearwater, FL and Beverly Hills, CA

Dr. Lox treats the Tampa Bay Metro Area including Clearwater, St. Petersburg, Tampa , Pinellas Park, Palm Harbor, Orlando and Sarasota as well as the Los Angeles Metro Area including Santa Monica and Beverly Hills.

Call our office in Clearwater, FL or Beverly Hills, CA to schedule a consultation with Dr. Dennis Lox.

Clearwater, Florida Office

2030 Drew St.
Clearwater, FL 33765
(727) 462-5582

Beverly Hills, California Office

450 N Roxbury Dr. #602
Beverly Hills, CA 90210
(310) 975-7033

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*DISCLAIMER: Like all medical procedures, those performed by Dennis Lox, M.D. have a success and failure rate. Patient reviews and testimonials on this site should not be interpreted as a statement on the effectiveness of our treatments for anyone else.