If you need assistance, please feel free to give me a call.
We are an out-of-network practice focused on delivering individualized, concierge-level orthopedic care.
At Plancher Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine, we understand how disruptive a meniscus injury, along with an anterior cruciate ligament injury, can be, whether it stems from an athletic injury, daily strain, or natural wear and tear. When the knee becomes unstable, swollen, or painful, everyday movements feel uncertain. That’s why we focus on early diagnosis, advanced treatment options, and customized recovery plans to help you regain strength, mobility, and peace of mind.
Serving patients across New York and Connecticut, we combine world-class orthopedic expertise with compassionate care because we know what it takes to get you back to doing what you love.
The meniscus is a critical structure in your knee joint. Each knee contains two menisci – the medial meniscus and lateral meniscus – which function as natural shock absorbers between your thighbone and shinbone. These C-shaped cartilage discs help stabilize the joint, distribute weight evenly, and allow for smooth, controlled motion.
Unfortunately, the meniscus has limited blood flow, especially in its inner zones, which makes natural healing difficult if it’s damaged. That’s why recognizing and addressing degenerative meniscus tears early and any damaged meniscus tissue can make a significant difference in your outcome.
A torn meniscus may not always hurt immediately, but when symptoms develop, they can interfere with even basic movement, which may require imaging tests. Common signs include:
Some symptoms may worsen over time if left untreated. If you’re experiencing any of these signs, we encourage you to reach out for an evaluation before they impact your quality of life further.
We begin every diagnosis with a detailed conversation about your injury and physical symptoms. During your appointment, we conduct a physical exam to assess mobility, swelling, and joint response.
One key test we may perform is the McMurray test, which helps us pinpoint the location and severity of a tear. We also rely on imaging tools, including X-rays and MRI scans, to visualize soft tissue damage and ensure an accurate diagnosis. Our goal is to create a clear path forward based on what we see and hear from you.
Many meniscus injuries can be treated without surgery through conservative treatment. When appropriate, we recommend a conservative approach, such as:
In some cases, we may explore biologic treatments such as PRP (platelet-rich plasma) injections or arthroscopic surgery to accelerate healing. These non-invasive options can be highly effective, especially when treatment is started early.
If your injury doesn’t respond to non-surgical care or if the lateral meniscus tear is too complex, meniscal repair surgery may be the most effective solution. We specialize in advanced, minimally invasive procedures that include:
Our goal is always to preserve your natural anatomy whenever possible, while restoring long-term function and stability to your knee.
Recovery doesn’t end with treatment – it continues through carefully guided rehabilitation. We design individualized physical therapy programs to help you restore mobility, regain strength, and prevent reinjury.
Depending on your procedure and progress, rehab may include crutches, bracing, aquatic therapy, or neuromuscular training. We’ll support you at every stage, adjusting your program as needed to help you return to your active lifestyle safely and confidently.
At Plancher Orthopaedics, our expertise in treating meniscus injuries is backed by decades of experience and a commitment to innovation. Dr. Kevin D. Plancher, recognized among America’s Most Honored Doctors, leads a team that prioritizes personalized treatment and long-term joint health.
From your first consultation to the final stages of rehabilitation, we provide comprehensive care with:
We’re not just here to treat your injury – we’re here to help you move forward with confidence.
If you’re experiencing knee pain, instability, or symptoms of a meniscus tear, don’t wait. Early intervention can prevent further damage and improve your outcome.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation:
A torn meniscus can quietly disrupt your daily life, but with the right diagnosis and care, healing is possible. Whether you’re managing pain from recent traumatic tears or long-term degeneration, we’re ready to support you with expert treatment and thoughtful rehabilitation. At Plancher Orthopaedics, we’re here to help you move better, feel stronger, and live with less pain.
The meniscus primarily serves as a shock absorber, distributes weight, stabilizes the knee joint, assists with lubrication, and plays a role in proprioception. Understanding these functions highlights the medial meniscus tear's critical role and the different types of meniscus tears in knee health and performance.
A meniscus tear is diagnosed through a physical examination that assesses swelling and tenderness, combined with specific tests like the McMurray test, and imaging studies such as X-rays and MRI. This comprehensive approach, including magnetic resonance imaging, ensures an accurate diagnosis for effective treatment.
Non-surgical treatments for meniscus tears primarily consist of ice compression and elevation, the RICE protocol, medications, physical therapy, and potentially biologic therapies such as PRP injections. These approaches can effectively alleviate symptoms and promote healing without the need for surgery.
Dr. Kevin D. Plancher is a prominent orthopedic surgeon specializing in sports medicine, particularly known for his expertise in treating meniscus injuries, along with a team of skilled orthopaedic surgeons. His extensive experience in sports-related injuries has earned him a distinguished reputation in the field.
If you need assistance, please feel free to give me a call.
We are an out-of-network practice focused on delivering individualized, concierge-level orthopedic care.
