If you are experiencing pain, swelling, and stiffness in your knee after an injury, you may have a bucket-handle tear of the meniscus. The meniscus is a C-shaped piece of cartilage that acts as a cushion between your thigh bone and shin bone. A bucket-handle tear occurs when a portion of the meniscus tears off and flips into the joint, causing the knee to lock up. In this article, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for a bucket-handle tear of the unspecified meniscus in the right knee.
Bucket-handle tears of the meniscus are often caused by sudden twisting or turning of the knee joint. This can happen during sports activities that involve sudden changes in direction, such as basketball or soccer. It can also occur during daily activities that involve sudden movements, such as stepping off a curb or getting up from a seated position.
The symptoms of a bucket-handle tear of the meniscus can vary depending on the severity of the tear. Some common symptoms include:
If you suspect that you have a bucket-handle tear of the meniscus, it is important to seek medical attention right away. Your doctor will likely recommend an MRI to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment options may include:
Overall, a bucket-handle tear of the meniscus can be a painful and debilitating injury. However, with prompt medical attention and appropriate treatment, most people are able to fully recover and return to their normal activities.