Residents of Palm County Florida with injuries to the meniscus can seek assessment and treatment with Dr. Van Sice. Dr. Van Sice assesses and treats patients with knee injuries at Jupiter Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, located in Jupiter, FL.
The meniscus is a rubbery cushion in the knee. The meniscus consists of two menisci one at the center and one at the outer edge of the knee. They protect the joint and keep the knee steady by balancing weight across the joint.
The meniscus is most often damaged by a tear when the knee is suddenly jerked or twisted in an abnormal direction. This occurs when a person is lifting something heavy or playing a sport when they squat or twist the knee. Injury can also occur during tackles in contact sports. Tears can also happen if the meniscus has become weakened or thin due to the natural degeneration that occurs with aging. Meniscus tears are classified as minor, moderate and severe. In a minor tear, the patient will experience slight pain and swelling, but the injury usually heals on its own in 2-3 weeks. Moderate tears cause pain on the side or center of the knee, with the swelling and discomfort increasing over 2-3 days. The swelling and pain may affect the patient’s ability to walk, but with rest, the symptoms will subside on their own. However, it is important to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment to make sure the meniscus heals properly, and the injury doesn’t reoccur. When a patient has a severe tear in the meniscus, the torn pieces of meniscus move into the joint, causing locking, catching, or popping. The patient may not be able to straighten the knee and may feel wobbly. When the meniscus is torn severely, it is important to seek assessment and treatment immediately.
Most patients report a “popping” sound and/or sensation when the meniscus is damaged. There is usually discomfort ranging from a minor ache to a much stronger pain. The knee typically swells and the patient may experience difficulty in walking.
Dr. Van Sice will try less invasive treatments if possible, such as rest, ice, compression, and elevation. He may prescribe NSAID anti-inflammatories. Physical therapy may be advised. In the case of a severe injury, the meniscus can be repaired with surgery. Dr. Van Sice will perform an arthroscopic knee surgery if possible to keep the incision small and the recovery time as short as possible.
At Jupiter Orthopedic we accept most major insurances. Please see the full list of plans. If you do not see your insurance listed, please call our office to see how we can help. Patient financing available through CareCredit. We accept Health Savings Account (HSA) credit cards, American Express, Mastercard and Visa as methods of payments. **Self-pay packages are available.
"He is very professional,knowledgeable and caring. I am very thankful for his expertise and attention."
"A gentleman and an outstanding doctor!! Thanks for all your care."
"I am extremely pleased with the surgery, the process went very smooth and Dr. Van Sice and his staff have provided me with top notch care."
"Dr. Van Sice's staff is responsive and compassionate."
"It's not easy to find a smart, grounded and humble orthopedist who you can trust...I was very impressed that he put my best interests ahead of just doing a surgery"
"Dr. Van Sice was highly recommended to me by a friend. He is a great doctor and his staff is excellent too!"
"Dr. Van Sice is a top notch doctor supported by outstanding staff both in his office as well as in the surgery center."
"We were always treated as his top priority and we received first-rate care. Our family is very happy with Dr. Van Sice and his team, and we recommend the practice"
"Dr. Van Sice and his staff were all amazing! I'm so thankful I went there, great experience all around and my arm is feeling so much better"
:Dr. Van Sice is a very smart and talented professional. He is always a pleasure to see and takes his time to understand the issue and explain my options"
"I appreciate the enthusiasm and energy the doctor had. They accomplish a lot on the initial visit...i.e..Xrays, Ultra sound...and I left knowing the issue."
