A meniscus tear is one of the most common knee injuries affecting adults of all ages. Whether caused by sports, aging, or everyday activities, a torn meniscus can make walking, climbing stairs, exercising, and standing for long periods uncomfortable.
While surgery has traditionally been recommended for certain meniscus injuries, many patients today are exploring non-surgical regenerative orthopedic treatments that may support the body’s natural healing response and improve joint function.
At Dr. Stem Cell, Dr. Bruce Fishman evaluates patients throughout California who are interested in regenerative orthopedic options for chronic knee pain, meniscus injuries, arthritis, and other musculoskeletal conditions.
What Is a Meniscus Tear?
The meniscus is a C-shaped piece of cartilage that cushions the knee joint. Each knee contains two menisci that help absorb shock, stabilize the knee, distribute body weight, protect cartilage, and allow smooth movement. When this cartilage becomes damaged, patients often experience pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced mobility.
Common Symptoms of a Torn Meniscus
- Knee pain
- Swelling
- Clicking or popping sensations
- Locking or catching of the knee
- Limited range of motion
- Pain while twisting or squatting
- Knee instability
What Causes Meniscus Tears?
Meniscus tears commonly result from sports injuries, sudden twisting movements, repetitive stress, age-related degeneration, arthritis, or traumatic knee injuries. Many patients with chronic knee pain also experience arthritis. Learn more in our guide to Stem Cell Therapy for Bone-on-Bone Knee Arthritis.
Traditional Treatment Options
Depending on the severity of the injury, treatment may include rest, physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, knee bracing, cortisone injections, or arthroscopic surgery. Some patients recover with conservative care, while others continue to experience persistent pain.
Can Stem Cell Therapy Help Meniscus Tears?
Stem cell therapy is part of the growing field of regenerative orthopedics. Rather than simply addressing symptoms, regenerative therapies are being studied for their potential to support tissue repair, healthy inflammatory responses, and joint function.
If you’re new to regenerative medicine, we recommend reading What Do Stem Cells Do? and Where Do Stem Cells Come From?.
PRP vs. Stem Cell Therapy
Patients frequently ask whether PRP or stem cell therapy may be more appropriate. Learn about the differences in our article on PRP vs. Stem Cell Therapy.
Meniscus Tears and Knee Arthritis
Meniscus injuries and arthritis often occur together. Patients experiencing generalized knee pain may also benefit from reading Stem Cell Therapy for Knee Joint Pain.
Stem Cell Therapy vs. Cortisone Injections
Many patients compare regenerative medicine with steroid injections before making a decision. Read our comparison of Stem Cell Therapy vs. Cortisone Injections.
Other Conditions Treated with Regenerative Orthopedics
Regenerative orthopedic treatments are also explored for rotator cuff injuries, spinal stenosis, hip labral tears, tendon injuries, and chronic joint pain. Learn more in What Conditions Can Regenerative Orthopedics Treat?.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a meniscus tear heal without surgery?
Some tears improve with conservative care, while others require more advanced treatment depending on their size, location, and associated symptoms.
How long does stem cell therapy last?
Results vary depending on the condition being treated and the individual patient. Learn more in How Long Does Stem Cell Therapy Last?.
Schedule a Consultation
If you’re experiencing chronic knee pain or a torn meniscus, call (818) 808-2828 or request an appointment online at https://drstemcell.com/appointments.
