Degenerate meniscal tears and osteoarthritis (OA) are extremely common in the general population. Early degenerative changes in the meniscus can be found in many subjects under the age of 30. By 50 to 60 years of age, full degenerative meniscal tears are commonly found in 33-50% of subjects. Unless associated with the presence of osteoarthritis (OA), these degenerative meniscal tears are most often asymptomatic. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is not recommended for degenerative meniscal tears unless there are mechanical symptoms (e.g., locking) or lack of improvement with conservative treatment (exercise/therapy, weight loss, bracing, topical or oral analgesia, intra-articular injections). MRI is not recommended for the diagnosis or management of OA. Weight-bearing X-rays should be ordered instead.
Conditions: Degenerative meniscal tears, osteoarthritis (OA)
Diagnostic Tests: MRI (Magnetic resonance imaging), Weight-bearing knee X-rays
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