How to Reduce Knee Pain From a Torn Cartilage
Your knee cartilage acts as a shock absorber between your shin and thighbones. Your knee cartilage, or the meniscus, is prone to injuries because you use your knees so much. A torn cartilage may be caused by twisting your knee or by degenerative changes in the cartilage. If you play contact sports, you may be prone to a torn cartilage. It may even occur when you kneel down. Your pain may be on either side of your knee and your knee may be swollen with limited movement. Take steps to reduce knee pain from a torn cartilage.
Instructions
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See your doctor and have your knee evaluated. He will visually inspect your knee and test your range of motion. You may be sent for X-rays or other imaging tests such as an MRI. Your doctor may refer you to an orthopedic doctor, who specializes in conditions of the bones, cartilage and joints.
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Ice your knee. Apply an ice bag for 15 minutes every hour. After 24 hours, apply it four times per day. Ice will reduce inflammation and reduce your pain. Do not apply ice directly to your knee because you may injure your skin. Wrap ice in a soft cloth, use an ice bag, or a package of frozen vegetables.
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Take an anti-inflammatory medication. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication will reduce the pain and swelling of your torn cartilage. Do not take them if you are taking medication to thin your blood. Read the label and take only the recommended dosage.
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Ask about prescription pain medication. If your anti-inflammatory medication is not effective in relieving your pain, ask your doctor to prescribe pain medication. Prescription pain medications may cause drowsiness, so do not drive when you take them, and only take them when your pain is severe.
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Ask about surgery. Ask your doctor if surgical removal of your torn cartilage is appropriate for you. Surgery to remove the torn cartilage will eliminate the pain, and restore mobility to your knee. Recovery time will depend on the type of surgery your doctor recommends.
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Tips & Warnings
Rest your knee. Avoid bearing weight on your knee to reduce pain. Elevating your knee with pillows will reduce inflammation and discomfort.
If your torn cartilage is on your right knee, do not drive. Your pain may act up while you are driving, and you will lose your ability to press on the pedals.
