Key Takeaways
- Meniscus tear treatment depends on the size, type, and location of the injury.
- Non-surgical therapies like rest, physical therapy, and orthobiologic injections (PRP or BMAC) often help mild or degenerative tears.
- Severe or complex tears may require arthroscopic surgery to repair or remove damaged tissue.
- Advanced techniques such as meniscal repair, partial meniscectomy, or cartilage restoration help protect long-term knee health.
- Dr. Christopher Swanson, a double board-certified orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist, provides both non-surgical and surgical meniscus tear treatments in Jacksonville, St. Johns, and Fleming Island, FL. He may also use Enovis® surgical technology to enhance precision and support a smoother surgical experience. Request a consultation to find the best option for your knee recovery.
Understanding Meniscus Tears and Why Treatment Matters
The meniscus acts as a cushion between your thighbone and shinbone, absorbing shock and stabilizing the knee joint. A tear can occur suddenly during sports or develop gradually due to degeneration. Without proper treatment, the injury may lead to chronic pain, instability, and early arthritis.
Dr. Swanson emphasizes that early evaluation and accurate diagnosis are key to long-term joint preservation. His approach combines comprehensive orthopedic assessment, collaboration with imaging specialists, personalized rehabilitation, and minimally invasive surgical care.
Non-Surgical Meniscus Tear Treatments
1. Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation (RICE)
For small or partial tears, conservative care can often relieve pain and swelling.
Patients are advised to limit their activity, apply ice several times a day, use compression wraps, and elevate their knee to reduce inflammation.
2. Physical Therapy
A structured physical therapy program strengthens surrounding muscles, improves flexibility, and restores range of motion. This approach is particularly effective for degenerative or stable tears.
Therapists may incorporate:
- Quadriceps and hamstring strengthening
- Balance and stability training
- Low-impact exercises such as cycling or swimming
3. Orthobiologic Injections: PRP & BMAC
Modern orthobiologic therapies stimulate the body’s natural healing process using biological materials derived from the patient’s own body.
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)
PRP therapy uses concentrated platelets rich in growth factors to reduce inflammation and promote tissue repair. The injection is performed under image guidance for accuracy, targeting the affected meniscus. This option benefits patients with mild tears, chronic inflammation, or degenerative joint changes.
Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate (BMAC)
BMAC injections use regenerative cells and growth factors taken from the patient’s bone marrow to repair cartilage and soft tissue. This treatment helps moderate meniscus damage that hasn’t responded to other therapies and may delay or prevent surgery.
| Orthobiologic Option | Source | Best For | Expected Recovery |
|---|---|---|---|
| PRP Injection | Patient’s blood (platelet concentrate) | Early tears, mild inflammation | 2–6 weeks for improvement |
| BMAC Injection | Bone marrow stem cells | Moderate tears or cartilage loss | 6–12 weeks for improvement |
Both treatments can complement physical therapy and other conservative methods before considering surgical intervention.
When Surgery Is Recommended
If a meniscus tear is large, unstable, or located in a poorly vascularized (low blood supply) area, it may not heal without surgical repair.
Dr. Swanson typically recommends surgery for patients who:
- Continue to experience pain after 4–6 weeks of conservative treatment
- Have locking, catching, or restricted knee motion
- Suffer from instability affecting daily movement or sports performance
His surgical approach is arthroscopic, meaning procedures are performed through small incisions using a high-definition camera and micro instruments, leading to faster recovery and less post-operative discomfort.
Surgical Treatment Options for Meniscus Tears
Arthroscopic Meniscal Repair
For tears along the outer rim of the meniscus (where blood supply is best), Dr. Swanson performs arthroscopic suturing to reconnect the torn tissue and promote natural healing. When appropriate, he may incorporate Enovis® instrumentation and arthroscopic tools designed to support accurate, anatomically guided repair. This method is preferred for younger or active patients because it preserves the meniscus and reduces the risk of arthritis later in life.
- Procedure: Sutures or fixation devices are placed arthroscopically to secure the tear.
- Recovery: Typically 3–6 months with physical therapy and gradual return to sports.
- Benefits: Preserves knee biomechanics, reduces arthritis risk.
Partial Meniscectomy
When the tear is complex or located in an area with limited healing potential, partial meniscectomy may be the best solution. Enovis® surgical tools may also be utilized to support precise trimming and contouring of damaged tissue. During this minimally invasive procedure, Dr. Swanson trims and smooths the damaged section while preserving as much healthy cartilage as possible.
- Procedure: Removal of torn fragments via arthroscopy.
- Recovery: Usually 4–6 weeks for everyday activities, 2–3 months for full return to sports.
- Benefits: Quick recovery, reduced pain, and restored mobility.
Cartilage Restoration Procedures
In some cases, meniscus tears occur alongside cartilage damage. Dr. Swanson may recommend cartilage restoration procedures or orthobiologic enhancement to encourage tissue repair and protect the joint surface. This procedure regenerates cartilage using the patient’s own cells cultured in a lab and implanted into the knee to restore smooth joint surfaces.
Orthobiologic Enhancement After Surgery
To optimize healing, Dr. Swanson may combine surgical repair with PRP or BMAC injections. These regenerative treatments can help accelerate recovery, support tissue integration, and minimize post-operative inflammation.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation is an essential part of recovery from any meniscus tear treatment.
After surgery, Dr. Swanson’s team develops a personalized physical therapy program focused on:
- Restoring full range of motion
- Building knee strength and stability
- Preventing re-injury through neuromuscular training
Patients are usually able to resume normal activities within a few weeks for minor procedures and a few months for complex repairs. Dr. Swanson’s detailed follow-up and customized care plans ensure optimal outcomes for each patient
Preventing Future Knee Injuries
To minimize the risk of future meniscus tears or knee complications:
- Warm up properly before physical activity
- Strengthen leg and core muscles
- Maintain a healthy weight to reduce joint strain
- Wear supportive footwear for stability
- Schedule periodic evaluations if you’ve had previous injuries
These measures, combined with proactive orthopedic care, can protect your knees and prolong joint health.
Start Your Meniscus Recovery with Dr. Swanson
Meniscus tears can significantly impact your mobility and quality of life, but with modern treatment options, recovery is within reach. Dr. Christopher Swanson offers a comprehensive range of non-surgical and surgical solutions, including regenerative orthobiologic therapy and advanced arthroscopic meniscus repair.
To get started, schedule your meniscus evaluation with Dr. Swanson Orthopedics in Jacksonville, St. Johns, or Fleming Island, FL by visiting the appointment portal or calling (904) 634-0640.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best treatment for a meniscus tear?
Treatment depends on the tear type and severity. Minor tears may heal with rest, therapy, or PRP injections, while complex tears often require arthroscopic repair or partial meniscectomy.
Can a meniscus tear heal naturally?
Small, stable tears near the outer edge may heal on their own due to better blood flow. However, deeper or more severe tears generally need surgical intervention.
Is surgery painful?
Arthroscopic surgery is minimally invasive, resulting in less post-operative discomfort and a quicker return to activity compared to open surgery.
How long is the recovery after meniscus repair?
Recovery ranges from 4–6 weeks for a partial meniscectomy to 3–6 months for a meniscus repair, depending on activity level and rehabilitation progress.
Will a meniscus tear cause arthritis if untreated?
Yes. An untreated tear can lead to uneven joint wear, cartilage breakdown, and early-onset arthritis. Prompt evaluation reduces this risk and preserves knee health.
