Knee Pain Focus: Meniscus Tears
- MiRae Acu
- Mar 22
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 27
A meniscus tear is a common knee injury that occurs when the cartilage between the thighbone (femur) and shinbone (tibia) becomes damaged. The meniscus acts as a shock absorber and stabilizer for the knee joint. Tears can result from trauma, such as twisting the knee during sports, or from gradual wear and tear over time. This condition affects people of all ages, from athletes to older adults.
Signs, Symptoms, and Common Causes
A torn meniscus can present with a range of symptoms, including:
Sharp or aching pain on the inside or outside of the knee.
Swelling and stiffness that develop over several hours or days.
Catching or locking sensation when moving the knee.
Difficulty fully extending or bending the knee.
Instability or feeling like the knee might give out.
Typical causes include:
Sudden twisting or pivoting motions, especially in sports.
Deep squatting or heavy lifting with improper form.
Age-related degeneration of knee cartilage.
How Meniscus Tears Are Diagnosed
A diagnosis generally involves:
Physical Examination: Assessing tenderness, swelling, and range of motion.
Special Tests: Such as the McMurray test, to detect mechanical symptoms.
Imaging: MRI scans are commonly used to confirm the location and severity of the tear.
East Asian Medicine’s View of Meniscus Injuries
From an East Asian Medicine perspective, meniscus tears are associated with obstruction of qi and blood in the knee channel due to trauma or overuse. Over time, this stagnation may lead to pain, swelling, and impaired mobility. If there is an underlying deficiency in the liver or kidney systems, the joint may also be more vulnerable to injury and slower to recover. Treatment is aimed at promoting circulation, reducing swelling, and strengthening the body's healing response.
How Mi Rae Acupuncture Supports Meniscus Tear Recovery
At Mi Rae Acupuncture, we provide supportive and non-invasive care to help manage meniscus tear symptoms and promote healing. Our treatment approach focuses on pain relief, inflammation reduction, and joint stabilization.
Acupuncture for Pain and Swelling
Stimulates circulation to reduce inflammation and relieve discomfort.
Supports tissue regeneration and improves knee function.
Moxibustion to Warm the Joint
Applies therapeutic heat to enhance healing in the affected area.
Eases stiffness and helps loosen tight muscles and tissues.
Cold Laser Therapy for Tissue Repair
Painless light therapy that stimulates cellular healing and reduces inflammation.
Enhances repair of cartilage and soft tissue structures.
Injection Therapy for Advanced Cases
Acupuncture point injection can provide localized anti-inflammatory effects.
Helpful in managing more severe or persistent pain associated with chronic tears.
Each treatment plan is tailored to your specific condition, whether the tear is recent or part of a chronic issue.
Tips to Protect and Strengthen Your Knees
In addition to receiving professional treatment, these strategies can support your recovery:
Avoid twisting or deep bending motions during the healing phase.
Incorporate gentle strengthening exercises for the thigh and calf muscles.
Use cold or heat therapy as needed: cold for recent swelling, heat to relax stiff muscles.
Wear a knee brace or support if recommended, especially during physical activity.
Gentle, Effective Relief at Mi Rae Acupuncture
A meniscus tear can make even simple movements feel difficult. At Mi Rae Acupuncture, we focus on non-invasive techniques to help you heal naturally and regain your confidence in motion.
Reach out today to schedule a consultation and take the next step toward a stronger, pain-free knee.
