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Peripheral Tear of Medial Meniscus: Understanding the Current Injury on your Left Knee

If you’re an athlete, chances are you’ve experienced a knee injury at some point in your career. One of the most common knee injuries is a peripheral tear of the medial meniscus. This injury can be painful and debilitating, but with proper treatment, you can get back to your sport in no time.

The medial meniscus is a C-shaped piece of cartilage that sits on the inner side of your knee joint. Its main function is to provide cushioning and support to your knee during movement. A peripheral tear occurs when there is damage to the outer edge of the meniscus, which is the part that is closest to the joint capsule.

There are several causes of a peripheral tear of the medial meniscus, including sudden twisting or pivoting movements, squatting, and direct impact to the knee. Symptoms of this injury include pain on the inside of the knee, swelling, stiffness, and difficulty straightening your leg.

Treatment Options for a Peripheral Tear of the Medial Meniscus

If you suspect you have a peripheral tear of the medial meniscus, it’s important to seek medical attention right away. Your doctor will likely perform a physical exam and order imaging tests to determine the extent of the injury.

Treatment for a peripheral tear of the medial meniscus depends on the severity of the injury. For minor tears, rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) may be enough to reduce pain and swelling. Your doctor may also prescribe pain medication and recommend physical therapy to help you regain strength and mobility in your knee.

If the tear is more severe, surgery may be necessary to repair or remove the damaged tissue. There are several surgical options available, including arthroscopic surgery, which uses a small camera to guide the surgeon during the procedure.

Preventing a Peripheral Tear of the Medial Meniscus

While it’s impossible to completely prevent knee injuries, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of a peripheral tear of the medial meniscus. These include:

1. Warming up properly before exercise or sports
2. Wearing proper footwear with good support
3. Gradually increasing the intensity and duration of your workouts
4. Incorporating strength training exercises that target the muscles around your knee
5. Using proper technique when performing movements that put stress on your knee

By taking these precautions and seeking medical attention if you suspect a knee injury, you can reduce your risk of a peripheral tear of the medial meniscus and stay in the game.