By Gardner Orthopedics | Fort Myers, FL
A sudden twist, a deep squat, or even a simple misstep — that’s all it takes for a meniscus tear to bring your active lifestyle to a screeching halt. For many in Fort Myers, this knee injury is more common than you might think, particularly among those who enjoy golf, pickleball, or gardening year-round.
If you’ve been told you may have a torn meniscus, or you’re dealing with unexplained knee pain, understanding your options is the first step toward relief.
What Is the Meniscus?
Each of your knees has two C-shaped pieces of cartilage called the menisci (plural of meniscus). These act like shock absorbers between your thigh bone (femur) and shinbone (tibia), helping to stabilize the joint and protect it from wear and tear.
“Think of the meniscus like a cushion that distributes weight evenly across the knee. Once it’s torn, the mechanics of the joint change dramatically,” explains Dr. Ron Gardner, board-certified orthopedic surgeon at Gardner Orthopedics.
Common Symptoms of a Torn Meniscus
Meniscus tears aren’t always immediately obvious. Some patients recall a distinct popping sound, while others notice gradual discomfort that worsens with activity.
Typical symptoms include:
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Pain localized to the inner or outer knee
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Swelling or stiffness that develops over several hours
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A feeling of the knee “locking” or “catching”
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Difficulty straightening the knee fully
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Instability when walking, especially on uneven surfaces
These symptoms can be easily confused with other conditions like ligament injuries or early arthritis, which is why prompt orthopedic evaluation is key.
How Tears Happen — and Who’s at Risk
Meniscus injuries can happen at any age, but the causes often differ:
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Younger, active individuals may tear the meniscus during sports, especially during pivoting or sudden stops.
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Older adults are more likely to experience degenerative meniscus tears due to cartilage weakening with age.
In Fort Myers, where active living is a year-round lifestyle, we frequently see meniscus issues in both groups — from college athletes to retirees enjoying tennis or golf at local clubs.
Diagnosis: Imaging Matters
At Gardner Orthopedics, diagnosis starts with a thorough physical exam. If a tear is suspected, MRI imaging is usually recommended to assess the extent and location of the damage.
“We don’t just look at whether there’s a tear,” says Dr. Gardner. “We assess how it impacts joint function, your age, activity level, and overall joint health. These factors help determine whether surgery is needed.”
Treatment Options: Not Always Surgery
Contrary to popular belief, not all meniscus tears require surgery. Treatment depends on several factors including tear location, size, and whether the knee remains stable.
Non-Surgical Options
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Physical therapy to strengthen surrounding muscles
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Activity modification to avoid further stress
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Injection therapies including corticosteroids or cellular therapy to reduce inflammation and promote healing
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Activation Medical IVs to reduce inflammation systemically
“In cases where the tear is small and stable, especially in older adults, conservative treatment can be very effective,” notes Dr. Gardner.
Surgical Options
If the tear is large, unstable, or causing mechanical symptoms like locking or buckling, arthroscopic surgery may be recommended. Gardner Orthopedics offers minimally invasive arthroscopic procedures, allowing faster recovery and reduced postoperative pain.
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Meniscectomy: Removing the torn portion of the meniscus
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Meniscus repair: Stitching the torn edges together (more common in younger patients)
A Patient’s Perspective
A Gardner Ortho Patient, a 60-year-old avid pickleball player, came in with nagging pain and clicking in her right knee. Imaging confirmed a degenerative meniscus tear. After a combination of physical therapy, IV nutrient therapy, and a corticosteroid injection, she was back on the court in six weeks — without surgery.
Recovery and Long-Term Outlook
Recovery from meniscus surgery usually takes 4 to 6 weeks for a partial meniscectomy, and longer if the tear is repaired. However, many patients return to full activity with minimal disruption when care is coordinated properly.
“The key is to preserve as much healthy cartilage as possible. That’s what we aim for in every case,” emphasizes Dr. Gardner.
Why Choose Gardner Orthopedics?
With deep experience in minimally invasive orthopedic procedures, and a patient-focused approach that includes integrative therapies like IV recovery support and regenerative medicine, Gardner Orthopedics offers comprehensive care tailored to your lifestyle.
Whether you’re seeking a second opinion or starting your recovery journey, you deserve a plan built around your goals — not just your injury.
About Gardner Orthopedics
Based in Fort Myers, Florida, Gardner Orthopedics is a trusted leader in orthopedic care. Under the leadership of Dr. Ron Gardner, the clinic provides expert care in orthopedic surgery, interventional pain management, foot and ankle care, regenerative medicine, Platinum Physicals, and Activation Medical IVs — all delivered with compassion and clinical excellence.
📍 3033 Winkler Ave. Ste. 100, Fort Myers, FL 33916
📞 Call: 1-239-277-7070
🌐 Visit: www.gardnerorthopedics.com
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