Understanding the Meniscus: A Look at Knee's Cushion

The meniscus is a crucial part of the knee. It acts like a cushion between the bones. This cushion helps the knee move smoothly. It also absorbs shock. Without it, the knee would wear out faster. A tear in the meniscus can happen without any injury. This is called an atraumatic tear. It can cause pain and swelling. It can also make the knee feel unstable. The knee might lock or catch. This can make it hard to move.There are different ways to treat a torn meniscus. Some people need surgery. Others can heal with rest and physical therapy. The best treatment depends on the person. It also depends on how bad the tear is. The meniscus affects how the knee moves. It helps the knee bend and twist. When it's damaged, it can change how the knee works. This can lead to more problems. It's important to take care of a torn meniscus. In the next part, we'll look at more details. We'll talk about how the meniscus works. We'll also talk about different treatments. This will help people understand their options.