Torn Meniscus in Central New Jersey

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Did your knee twist and suddenly start swelling or locking? A torn meniscus is one of the most common knee injuries and can make simple movements painful and unpredictable. When rest and therapy don’t solve the problem, you may need a closer look at the cartilage inside your knee.

Cristobal Beiro, MD, is a board-certified orthopaedic surgeon with subspecialty certification in Sports Medicine. Fellowship-trained and highly experienced in complex knee surgery, he provides advanced meniscus treatment in Avenel, NJ.

What Is a Torn Meniscus?

The meniscus is a C-shaped piece of cartilage that cushions and stabilizes your knee joint. Each knee has two menisci — one on the inner side and one on the outer side.

A meniscus tear can occur when the knee twists while bearing weight. It may also develop gradually due to age-related wear and tear.

Common Causes

Meniscus tears often result from:

  • Sudden pivoting or cutting movements
  • Sports injuries
  • Squatting or heavy lifting
  • Degenerative changes in older adults

Both athletes and non-athletes can experience this injury.

Symptoms of a Meniscus Tear

You may notice:

  • Knee pain, especially when twisting
  • Swelling
  • Locking or catching
  • Difficulty fully straightening the knee
  • A feeling of instability

Some tears cause mild discomfort, while others significantly limit movement.

Diagnosing a Torn Meniscus

A physical exam combined with imaging, such as MRI, helps confirm the tear and determine its location and severity. The type of tear influences whether non-surgical or surgical treatment is recommended.

Treatment Options

Non-Surgical Treatment

Small or stable tears may improve with non-operative treatments like:

  • Rest and activity modification
  • Anti-inflammatory medication
  • Physical therapy
  • Bracing

Arthroscopic Meniscus Surgery

If pain persists or the knee locks, surgery may be recommended. Arthroscopy allows Dr. Beiro to:

  • Trim damaged tissue (meniscectomy)
  • Repair the torn cartilage when possible
  • Address additional knee damage

Minimally invasive techniques help reduce recovery time and protect healthy tissue.

Recovery and Long-Term Outlook

Recovery depends on whether the meniscus is repaired or trimmed. Repair typically requires a longer rehabilitation period, while partial removal may allow a quicker return to activity.

Structured physical therapy helps restore strength and motion. Protecting the meniscus when possible is important for long-term joint health.

Why Choose Cristobal Beiro, MD, for Torn Meniscus Treatment in Avenel, NJ?

Dr. Cris Beiro completed his orthopaedic training at Rutgers University – New Jersey School of Medicine and his sports medicine fellowship at Union Memorial Hospital in Baltimore. He has treated athletes at the professional and collegiate levels, including serving as an assistant team physician for the Baltimore Ravens and Washington Nationals.

Board-certified and highly experienced in complex knee surgery, Dr. Beiro is co-founder of Garden State Bone and Joint and an attending physician at several area hospitals. His patient-centered approach focuses on restoring knee stability and, whenever possible, preserving cartilage.

Restore Comfort and Stability to Your Knee

A torn meniscus can interfere with sports, work, and daily life. With expert diagnosis and advanced surgical care when needed, you can regain mobility and confidence.

If you’re experiencing knee pain or locking in Avenel, NJ, contact Cristobal Beiro, MD, at (732) 283-2663 to discuss your evaluation and treatment options.

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Sat & Sun: Closed

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