Caring for Your Child With a Discoid Meniscus
If the discoid meniscus is painful or bothers your child, treatments can help.
A meniscus is a pad inside the knee. Each knee has two of these pads: an inner meniscus and an outer meniscus. The menisci (more than one meniscus) prevent the thigh bone from rubbing against the shin bone. They also soften the pressure on the bones when someone runs or jumps. Menisci help keep the knee steady, too.
A discoid meniscus is a meniscus that is thicker than usual. Some kids are born with a discoid meniscus. Sometimes they develop knee pain. Or they may hear a snapping or clicking sound when they move the knee. They can have trouble straightening the leg, or the knee might buckle, wobble, or lock in place. In some kids, the knee swells. But in many kids with discoid meniscus, there are no symptoms at all.
The health care professional talked to you and your child and did an examination. Your child may have had an X-ray or a MRI to look inside the knee.
If the knee is not hurting or bothering your child, no treatment may be needed. If treatment is needed, the health care professional might recommend exercises and medicines for pain and swelling. Sometimes surgery is needed.
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Your child should take a break from things that cause knee pain. This may include running, jumping, or some sports. Walking is usually OK.
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For pain or swelling, the health care professional may recommend:
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Ibuprofen (brand names include Advil®, Motrin®, and Q-Profen®) OR Naproxen (brand names include Aleve®, Anaprox®, and Naprosyn®).
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Putting ice, a cold pack, or a compress on the knee for 10-20 minutes every few hours. Place a towel between the ice and the skin.
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If the health care professional gave your child a knee brace, make sure your child wears it as directed.
Your child:
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Has knee pain or swelling that does not go away after following the health care professional's instructions.
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Has new or worsening knee pain.
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Has trouble moving the knee.
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Can't bend or straighten the knee normally.
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Often feels like the knee is going to give out or buckle.