Treatment for meniscus tears isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. Your age, activity level, type of tear, and recovery goals play a role in determining the right treatment path.
At his practice in Santa Barbara, Matthew Pifer, MD, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in sports medicine, shoulder care, and cutting-edge biologic treatments, helps patients weigh their options.
Whether you’re looking to avoid surgery or need a minimally invasive procedure to get back on your feet, Dr. Pifer offers a personalized approach rooted in the latest science and technology.
Here’s how to know when knee surgery might be the right move for your meniscus tear and what alternatives exist.
There’s more than one type of meniscus tear.
The meniscus has two main zones. The red zone is the outer edge with a good blood supply, and the white zone is the inner edge, which has poor circulation.
Tears in the red zone are more likely to heal with non-surgical treatments like rest, physical therapy, or PRP injections.
However, if your tear is in the white zone, or if the tear is complex, large, or causing your knee to lock, surgery may be necessary to repair or remove the damaged tissue.
Dr. Pifer uses advanced imaging to determine not just if there’s a tear but also what kind, so you can make an informed decision.
If you’re an athlete, an active adult, or someone who relies on full knee function for work or daily life, surgery might be recommended sooner. Meniscus tears that interfere with walking, running, or pivoting can lead to long-term joint damage if left untreated. Alternatively, if you’re less active and your symptoms are mild, conservative care may be enough.
Dr. Pifer customizes treatment plans based on your lifestyle goals, not just textbook protocols.
Sometimes, waiting too long can exacerbate the situation. A torn meniscus can put uneven pressure on the knee joint, accelerating cartilage wear and increasing your risk of arthritis. If swelling, pain, or instability lasts after 4–6 weeks of non-surgical treatment, it may be time to re-evaluate.
Using minimally invasive arthroscopic techniques, Dr. Pifer can repair or trim the damaged tissue with precision, reducing recovery time and improving outcomes.
Before turning to surgery, Dr. Pifer often recommends biologic therapies like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy or stem cell treatments. These injections can accelerate healing and reduce inflammation, especially in people with partial tears or early-stage damage. Many people find relief and improved mobility without needing surgery.
If surgery is recommended, PRP therapy can be used to accelerate recovery.
If your knee still hurts, clicks, or gives out after initial treatment, it’s wise to consider surgery. Meniscus surgery helps you move well again without chronic pain or long-term damage. Dr. Pifer brings his extensive experience, advanced techniques, and a clear commitment to helping you recover stronger.
Contact us to learn more or schedule a consultation today. Find out if surgery or biologic therapy is right for your knee.
