The person with a meniscus injury commonly experiences pain, swelling, popping or even locking of the knee joint if a portion of the torn meniscus becomes trapped between the joint surfaces. Diagnosis is made by physical exam and supplemented by MRI scans, which are an accurate, dependable method for meniscus tear diagnosis. Restriction of activity and anti-inflammatory medicines often result in symptom reduction. Persistent symptoms dictate the need for arthroscopy, the fiber optic technique of examining the knee's interior and removing torn and degenerative tissue. This is desirable in young, active people- who will perform better over the decades if the meniscus remains in place.
Most patients develop significant leg weakness before and after surgical care of a meniscus problem.
Therefore, a structured physical therapy program is of great benefit. The anterior cruciate ligament is a critical ligament deep in the center of the knee. It keeps the tibia from moving abnormally under the femur. This small, finger-sized ligament is often injured during athletic activity where the knee has been subjected to sudden twisting. And the knee swells intensely.