Richard Haynes PTA/CPT - 10/24/2008

Question
I had a menicus tear in May 2008 in which my doctor "cleaned it up" through arthroscopy. I have had trouble ever since and have seen the doctor 6 times since complaining of pain and knee locking.  He has given me steroid shots, NSAIDS and nothing has worked.  I have done heat, ice and worn a brace and nothing has helped.  He recently did xrays again and another MRI that shows nothing.  My knee still locks and I walk with a limp after sitting for 15 minutes.  I don't know what to do.  I know this is not right and am scared I might have to live with this.  Can you tell me if MRI's are not always accurate and what I can do from here?

Answer
Hi Susan,  I am sorry to hear about this problem you are having. it can be very frustrating no doubt. Now as far as your question is concerned, yes those MRIs can be mis-read. I had one mis-read on me years ago. They are only as good as the individual reading them and the quality of the software that is used.

Providing you did your rehab after the arthroscopic work in May which consisted of  several exercises to strengthen the thigh and calf muscles along with range of motion exercises,then we know that is not the problem.

I would seek out another opinion form another orthopedist and see if they  recommend another MRI. I would like to think the surgeon cleaned up the area completely, but there could be some debris still floating in the knee joint itself.

You should be feeling much better then you do IF all there was to clean up was a meniscus tear.
X-rays will not show anything in the knee joint but arthritis if there is any. The MRI has to be done and they can give false readings.

Check with another Doctor for another opinion. Other then that you are doing everything someone can do to help the knee with the heat etc...



Good Luck
Richard Haynes
Punta Gorda, Fl.
www.totaljointfitness.com