Knee pain

[TheAhmazingShortie]

I have had a torn meniscus and plica syndrome. A year ago I had part of the meniscus removed and then half of the plica removed. Almost a month ago when I was messing around on the wii fit and doing other things it started to hurt tremendously. Now, it still hurts to walk for a long time on it and sometimes while sitting I have an aching pain. The main area of the pain is on the inner part of my left knee. If anyone knows of what could be wrong or what could help, I would grately appreciate it.

[Michael L Gross, MD]

If it hurts, have it evaluated.

[TheAhmazingShortie]

Thank you for this information. I have been trying the ice and ibuprofen. It hasn't really worked much but then again it didn't help before surgery and then pain has now branched out to around the patella as well. The only part I am worried about is the rest.  I have marching band and so I am afraid this will only make it worse. Is it best to go through marching band and then get my knee taken care of or to not really do marching band?

[Michael L Gross, MD]

I think what you are really worried about is, is it possible to have retorn the remaining portion of your medial meniscus. Unfortunately, the answer is: "yes". The other possibilities include a sprain of the medial collateral ligament or simply a tear of some scar tissue from your previous surgery.
The problem with a post surgical knee, is that an MRI may not be that helpful.  It may not be possible to differentiate between post-surgical changes and a new tear. Usually, these injuries ar treated clinically. Rest, ice, bracing, NSAIDs, and time. If the pain resolves, then no further action is taken. If pain persists, then an MRI arthrogram may be useful.