Meniscus Tear

What is a Meniscus Tear?

The meniscus is a piece of cartilage located in the knee joint that helps to absorb shock and distribute body weight evenly between the thigh and lower leg bones. There are two menisci in each knee: the medial meniscus (on the inside of the knee) and the lateral meniscus (on the outside of the knee). These cartilage discs are essential for smooth knee movement and joint stability. When damaged, they can affect the knee’s function and overall mobility.

A meniscus tear typically occurs during activities that involve sudden rotation or twisting of the knee, particularly when the foot is planted and the knee is bent. A tear can happen on its own or alongside other injuries, such as an ACL rupture (Anterior Cruciate Ligament).

Symptoms of a Meniscus Tear:

Pain: Often felt along the joint line of the knee, especially when weight is placed on the affected leg.
Swelling: Within the first 24 hours after the injury, swelling can occur in the knee and lower leg.
Restricted Range of Motion: Difficulty bending or straightening the knee fully.
Locking or Catching: The knee may “lock” or “catch” during movement, causing a sensation of restriction or “sticking.”
Recurrent Swelling: Swelling may return periodically, especially after physical activity.
Pain along the Joint Line: Specific pain in the area of the meniscus, typically on the inside or outside of the knee, depending on which meniscus is affected.

Immediate Treatment (RICER): When you first sustain a meniscus injury, it’s important to manage it appropriately to reduce pain and swelling. This includes the RICER protocol:

Rest: Avoid putting weight on the affected leg to prevent further strain.
Ice: Apply ice to reduce swelling and numb pain.
Compression: Use an elastic bandage or compression wrap to help control swelling.
Elevation: Elevate the leg above the level of the heart to assist in reducing swelling.
Referral: Seek medical advice or physiotherapy for a proper assessment and treatment plan.

Physiotherapy for Meniscus Tear:

A physiotherapist plays a crucial role in managing a meniscus injury and optimizing recovery. Early treatment involves:

Pain Management: Reducing inflammation and swelling with techniques like ice, soft tissue release, joint mobilization, and taping.
Range of Motion Exercises: To restore normal movement in the knee.
Strengthening: Exercises aimed at building strength around the knee and improving stability.
Postural and Biomechanical Correction: Ensuring that movement patterns do not place additional strain on the knee.

In later stages of recovery, physiotherapy will focus on functional exercises and gradual return to activity. This could be anything from walking to sports-specific movements, depending on the patient’s goals.

In Some Cases: If a meniscus tear is severe or if conservative treatments do not lead to satisfactory outcomes, additional interventions such as a cortisone injection or surgery may be considered. However, physiotherapy is typically recommended first to manage the injury and potentially avoid more invasive procedures.

Summary:

A meniscus tear can significantly affect knee function and movement, but with proper early care, physiotherapy, and possibly more advanced treatments, most individuals can recover well and return to their normal activities. Always seek early professional evaluation to determine the best course of action for treatment.

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You can reach us at (08) 9271 8805 and one of our friendly team members will be happy to answer your questions.