Meniscus tears are on the rise with Pickleball. What are my treatment options to get back on the court?
Whether you are a seasoned player or just starting, understanding the best treatment options for a torn meniscus is helpful for maintaining an active lifestyle on and off the court. Patient injuries often occur after they made an uncoordinated movement, their bodies were tired after playing for long periods of time, or their form was suffering.
Being physically and mentally prepared for motions that you perform is extremely important, not only in sport performance but in injury prevention and recovery. If our bodies are not primed, the risk of injury is much higher.
The best treatment approach for a torn meniscus depends on the severity of the injury, the type of tear, patient’s overall health and activity level. Consulting with a qualified orthopedic specialist is essential for accurate diagnosis and treatments.
When a meniscus injury does occur, there are many options ranging from:
Conservative management: R.I.C.E., NSAIDs, physical therapy
Minimally invasive (arthroscopic) surgery
Regenerative Medicine such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy
Lifestyle Additions including orthotic inserts, proper footwear, low-impact activities
By Myra Trivellas, M.D.