Medial Meniscus Tear

[pomtzu]

I had tears in both knees, and surgery on both - 6 months apart. I was on crutches for a few days only and had no problems driving my stick shift car. As long as you give it as much rest as you can, especially for the first week, then you shouldn't have too much trouble. I had both done on a Friday, and was back to work the following Monday. Perhaps if you could stay with a friend for a few days so you don't have to deal with all those stairs, since that's the only drawback I can see. You could get someone to check on and feed the cats, right? I did the therapy route with one, but not the other. There are exercises you can do at home that are just as effective.

Good luck!

[Catty1]

Gosh, this makes me wonder about my knee problems! I guess the surgical repairs work well? I know I need to do more walking.

Donna, I hope you get some answers on recovery time etc. I live up a flight of stairs so I totally understand.

[moosmom]

Ellie,

That certainly does ease my mind a little. My friend Nancy told me that I shouldn't worry about something that is outta my control. SO true. I'll wait to see how bad of a tear it is and what is in store. Once I know WHAT to expect, I can plan accordingly.

This sucks.

[pomtzu]

Donna - you really should have it done if the doc says it needs to be done. Even if the tear isn't too bad, it can get worse, and you could end up in the ER with your knee locked. My knee locked on me with the first one, but luckily I was able to manipulate it and "unlock" it, but a lot of people aren't that lucky. Doc said he didn't know how I was even able to walk, since the cartilage had lodged under the kneecap. Surprisingly enough, it didn't even really hurt much. Go figure.........

[Cataholic]

Of all the knee problems you could have, this one isn't too bad. I have had 5 or so repairs to my knee (all arthroscopically(sic)), and though all in my younger years...it was pretty much two or three days of taking it easy and move on with the life. I drove a stick...it isn't like you really bend your knee much shifting, do you? As a result of my knee issues, I do sit so far back from the steering wheel its kind of weird. (But safer).

[Karen]

As others have mentioned, it's usually not a real big deal. A boss of mine tore her meniscus once, and I know others who have as well. As long as you lay in provisions so you don't have to go out for a couple days after the surgery, I'm betting you'll be fine, and a couple weeks later, wondering why you waited!

[moosmom]

Whatever my doctor advises, I'll definitely do. I don't mind being holed up in my tiny apt. with my fur crew for a few days. I've done it before. Who could ask for a better nursing staff???

It's funny, but ever since I got the call about my knee, I've noticed a LOT of Scooter Store, Hov-A-Round and Medic Alert bracelet commercials.

Got another call from his assistant. It seems that on top of Osteoarthritis and a horizontal medial meniscus tear, there are other major things going on (she wouldn't elaborate, saying the dr. would explain it all). NOW I'm nervous.