If your knee suddenly locks, catches, or feels unstable—especially when bending or twisting—it may be more than just a minor sprain. These symptoms often point to a meniscus tear, one of the most common knee injuries, particularly among active individuals and older adults. The good news is that at Dr. Rami Hamed Center (DRHC) in Dubai, minimally invasive knee arthroscopy can often repair the damage and restore full function—without the need for major surgery.

What Is a Meniscus Tear?

Your knee joint contains two C-shaped pieces of cartilage called menisci (singular: meniscus), which act like shock absorbers between the thigh bone (femur) and shin bone (tibia). When the knee is twisted suddenly—during sports or even a misstep while walking—these cushions can tear.

A meniscus tear can happen to anyone, but it's especially common in athletes and people over 40, as the cartilage weakens with age. Symptoms may include:

• A popping sound at the time of injury
• Pain and swelling
• Locking or catching of the knee joint
• Difficulty fully straightening or bending the knee
• A feeling that the knee is going to "give way"

Why Is Your Knee Locking?

Locking occurs when a torn piece of the meniscus gets caught between the bones of the joint, preventing smooth movement. It’s like having a pebble jammed in a hinge—movement becomes painful or impossible.

While some small tears may heal on their own, persistent locking or catching is a sign that the tear may require surgical intervention, especially if it interferes with daily life or physical activity.

Arthroscopic Surgery: A Minimally Invasive Solution

We understand that the thought of surgery can be intimidating. That’s why it’s important to know that arthroscopy is not a major operation—it’s a safe, minimally invasive technique that allows for a faster, smoother recovery.

During knee arthroscopy, a small camera (arthroscope) is inserted into the joint through tiny incisions. This allows the surgeon to view the injury and either trim the torn meniscus (partial meniscectomy) or stitch it back together (meniscus repair), depending on the type and location of the tear.

Common Questions We Hear from Patients at DRHC Dubai

“Will the procedure be painful?”

Discomfort is usually minimal. Most patients report soreness for a few days, which can be managed with mild painkillers. You’ll be up and walking—often on the same day—with guidance from our physiotherapy team.

“How long is the recovery?”

Recovery depends on the extent of the tear and the procedure performed. For meniscus trimming, most people return to daily activities in 2–3 weeks. If the meniscus is repaired with stitches, healing may take 6–8 weeks. Our team at DRHC Dubai provides a personalized rehabilitation plan to support your full recovery.

“Are there risks?”

Like any procedure, there are minor risks—such as infection, stiffness, or blood clots—but complications are rare. Our orthopedic surgeons use advanced techniques and strict safety protocols to ensure the best outcomes.

“What if I don’t want surgery?”

In some cases, especially with small tears and manageable symptoms, conservative treatments like rest, physiotherapy, and anti-inflammatory medications can help. However, if your knee locks frequently or the pain persists, delaying treatment could cause further joint damage.

Why Choose DRHC Dubai for Meniscus Tear Treatment?

At Dr. Rami Hamed Center in Dubai, our orthopedic specialists have extensive experience in diagnosing and treating meniscus injuries using the latest techniques in arthroscopic knee surgery. We combine advanced imaging, skilled surgical care, and tailored post-operative rehabilitation—all under one roof.

We understand that knee pain can disrupt your life, and we're here to guide you through every step of your recovery with compassion, clarity, and expertise.

When to Seek Help

If your knee is locking, clicking, or catching—don’t ignore it. These symptoms are your body’s way of asking for help. Early intervention can prevent further joint damage and get you back to moving with confidence.

Schedule a consultation at DRHC Dubai today to discuss your symptoms and explore whether knee arthroscopy may be the right solution for you.

Call +97142798200 us now to schedule your consultation today!
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