Knee injuries are painful, but they can also significantly influence your daily life and physical activity. Two common knee injuries, a torn ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) and a torn meniscus, often cause confusion because of their similar symptoms.
At Orthopaedic Institute Brielle Orthopaedics, we have served patients in New Jersey for over 30 years and have seen our fair share of ACL and meniscus tears. Understanding the difference between these injuries and knowing the treatment options can help you make informed decisions about your recovery.
A torn ACL typically results from sudden movements, such as pivoting, twisting, or jumping, which are common in sports.
The ACL is a ligament that stabilizes the knee joint. When it tears, you might hear a “popping” sound followed by:
On the other hand, a torn meniscus is an injury to the cartilage that cushions the knee joint. It’s often caused by twisting or squatting movements.
Symptoms of a torn meniscus include:
Both injuries can result from similar activities. However, the meniscus tear affects the cartilage, whereas the ACL tear impacts the ligament.
When it comes to treating these injuries, a professional diagnosis is essential to determine the right approach.
Treatment for a torn ACL generally begins with rest, ice, and physical therapy to reduce swelling and improve knee stability. In cases where the ACL tear is severe, surgery may be required to reconstruct the ligament and restore full functionality.
For a torn meniscus, initial treatment may involve the RICE method (rest, ice, compression, and elevation), physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications. If the tear is large or does not improve with conservative measures, arthroscopic surgery may be recommended to repair or remove the damaged cartilage.
Determining the type and extent of a knee injury requires a careful examination by an orthopaedic specialist. At Orthopaedic Institute Brielle Orthopaedics, our team of experts can provide a comprehensive assessment and personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Don’t let knee pain hold you back. Schedule a consultation today. Call us at 732-800-9000, text at 732-800-5976, or book an appointment online.
Patients deserve personalized, outcome-driven care provided by physicians who genuinely care about them. As medicine has become more corporate and transactional, OrthoNJ prioritizes exceptional doctor/patient relationships. This is why we say we have The Power to Put Patients First.
Patients deserve personalized, outcome-driven care provided by physicians who genuinely care about them. As medicine has become more corporate and transactional, OrthoNJ prioritizes exceptional doctor/patient relationships. This is why we say we have The Power to Put Patients First.
Patients deserve personalized, outcome-driven care provided by physicians who genuinely care about them. As medicine has become more corporate and transactional, OrthoNJ prioritizes exceptional doctor/patient relationships. This is why we say we have The Power to Put Patients First.
