A meniscus tear occurs when the meniscus tissue in the knee joint is damaged. The meniscus is a cartilage structure that acts as a shock absorber in the knee. Although it is common among athletes, it can occur in any age group due to age-related degeneration. Meniscus tear treatment The process varies depending on factors such as the type and size of the tear and the patient's general health.
Surgical Meniscus Tear Treatment Methods
Meniscus tears may require surgical intervention depending on factors such as the type and size of the tear and the patient's age. Surgery is preferred in cases where conservative treatment does not provide relief or if the tear is very large. Surgical treatment is usually performed with arthroscopic methods and allows the patient to recover more quickly.
Arthroscopic meniscus repair is a procedure that aims to heal the tear by stitching it. In this procedure, a camera and special surgical instruments are inserted through small incisions made in the knee joint.
If the tear is located in the outer area of the meniscus with good blood supply, the chance of repair is higher. In young and active individuals, the repair method is often preferred because it preserves the natural structure of the meniscus. The recovery period can take several months and physical therapy is required. Partial meniscectomy is the procedure of removing a portion of the torn meniscus tissue. This method aims to preserve the functionality of the knee by removing only the damaged part of the meniscus.
The recovery period after surgery is usually shorter and the patient can return to daily activities within a few weeks. However, since some of the meniscus tissue is removed, the risk of cartilage wear and osteoarthritis may increase in the future.
Total meniscectomy is a surgical procedure that involves removing the entire meniscus. This procedure is only performed when the meniscus is completely dysfunctional and there are no other treatment options. Surgery meniscus tear treatment, Physical therapy is important for strengthening the knee and regaining functionality. The success of surgery also depends on the patient's compliance with the postoperative care process.
Conservative Meniscus Tear Treatment Methods
Meniscus tears do not always require surgical intervention. If the tears occur in areas on the outside of the knee with good blood circulation, healing is achieved with non-surgical treatment. It is also preferred in degenerative meniscus tears seen in elderly individuals or in patients with surgical risk.
One of the most commonly used methods in the early stages of meniscus tears is the RICE protocol. Rest is important to reduce the pressure on the knee and excessive strain should be avoided.
Ice application is effective in reducing swelling and inflammation. Ice can be applied several times a day. Compression helps control swelling by wrapping the knee with elastic bandages. Elevation helps reduce swelling by raising the knee above the level of the heart.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are used to reduce pain and inflammation. Medications such as ibuprofen and naproxen can relieve pain and increase mobility. However, these medications can cause stomach and kidney problems when used for a long time. Therefore, they should be used under the supervision of a doctor.
The most important stage of non-surgical treatment for meniscus tears is physical therapy. Exercises performed by a physiotherapist strengthen the muscles around the knee. They also increase joint stability. Flexibility exercises and low-impact exercises accelerate the healing process.
Hyaluronic acid or PRP injections are used to reduce pain and promote healing. These treatment methods can be especially effective in degenerative tears. Conservative meniscus tear treatment If these methods do not produce results, surgery may be necessary. However, with the right care and treatment, many patients can recover without the need for surgery.
After Meniscus Tear Treatment
Meniscus tear treatment The recovery process after surgery varies depending on the treatment method applied and the size of the tear. There are some important steps to consider after surgical and non-surgical treatment.
If the meniscus tear is treated surgically, the recovery period usually varies between 4 and 6 weeks. After arthroscopic meniscus repair, the load on the knee is gradually increased. Crutches may be required for the first few weeks.
After partial meniscectomy, patients recover more quickly. Most people can return to their daily activities in a few weeks. However, symptoms such as swelling and stiffness may be seen in the knee. In this case, ice application and rest are important. Physical therapy is the most important stage of the recovery process after meniscus treatment. Exercises with a physiotherapist strengthen the muscles around the knee. It restores mobility.
In the first stage, light stretching and balance exercises are performed. Over time, resistance exercises and low-impact activities (such as swimming and cycling) are added. Exercises both strengthen the knee and reduce the risk of re-tear.
Heavy physical activity should be avoided until the treatment is fully healed. The time it takes for athletes to return to the field depends on the strength and stability of the knee. Overstressing the knee after surgery can negatively affect the healing process.
Meniscus tear treatment When a correct rehabilitation program is applied after the operation, the recovery process is accelerated. In this way, patients can regain their former mobility in a healthy way.
