What are Meniscus Tears?
One of the most frequently injured areas of our body is our meniscus. Meniscus are thin pads in the shape of a 'C' at the intersection of our two largest bones in the knee area.
They play a role in tasks such as carrying the load on the knee, allowing rotation in many directions, and ensuring the balance of power between the femur (thigh bone) and tibia (shin bone).
In contact sports such as football, the meniscus can tear due to sudden twisting of the knee, and the loading on one knee. In older age groups, the meniscus can tear due to degeneration and cartilage damage in the knee without any trauma.
Meniscus Tears Symptoms
- Sounds coming from inside the knee may be the first signs of a tear. Athletes can continue playing or doing daily activities until edema develops in the knee. However, when edema develops, complaints occur. Complaints develop within 24-48 hours.
- Tightness and swelling in the knee
- Decreased range of motion in joints
- Fluid accumulation in the knee
- When the torn piece of meniscus falls into the joint, it becomes stuck or locked.
This situation can only be corrected with a maneuver performed by your doctor.
Meniscus Tear Treatment
- Rest
- Ice application
- Apply pressure (such as a bandage)
- It is the raising of the knee
Surgical treatment is planned when the meniscus does not heal and complaints continue to occur. Meniscus tears that cause tears and complaints cause wear and tear on the cartilage and calcification in the future. Meniscus surgeries are performed successfully with the arthroscopic method.
Post-surgical rehabilitation is an important part of treatment.
What is the meniscus and what is its function?
The menisci are C-shaped cartilage structures located between the thigh and tibia bones in the knee joint. Each knee has two menisci, one inner (medial) and one outer (lateral). The menisci provide harmony between the joint surfaces, act as shock absorbers, and contribute to the stability of the knee by protecting the joint cartilage.
How does a meniscus tear occur?
Meniscus tears usually occur as a result of sudden turning movements, loads on the knee while it is in a bent position, or trauma. Tears may occur during sudden movements in athletes and due to degeneration of the meniscus tissue in elderly individuals.
What are the symptoms of a meniscus tear?
- Knee pain: Pain felt especially in the joint line.
- Swelling: Swelling in the knee may occur a few hours or the next day after the injury.
- Limited movement: Difficulty bending or straightening the knee fully.
- Locking sensation: A feeling of catching or locking in the knee.
- Clicking sound: Clicking or snapping sounds heard during knee movements.
How is a meniscus tear diagnosed?
- Physical examination: The doctor will perform certain tests to evaluate the knee joint.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): It is the most sensitive imaging method for detecting meniscus tears.
How is a meniscus tear treated?
- Conservative treatment: Rest, ice, compression and elevation (RICE protocol), painkillers and physical therapy.
- Surgical treatment: Depending on factors such as the size and location of the tear and the age of the patient, meniscus repair or removal of the torn portion (partial meniscectomy) may be performed with arthroscopic surgery.
What happens if a meniscus tear is not treated?
Untreated meniscus tears can lead to cartilage damage in the knee joint, early development of osteoarthritis, and chronic knee pain.
What can I do to prevent meniscus tears?
- Regular exercise: Strengthening the muscles around the knee.
- Warm up and stretch: Doing appropriate warm-up and stretching exercises before sports activities.
- Choosing the right shoes: Using appropriate shoes for sports and daily activities.
- Avoid sudden movements: Avoid sudden turning and twisting movements.
What is the recovery process after meniscus tear surgery?
The recovery period after surgery depends on the type of procedure performed and the general condition of the patient. It usually varies between 4-6 weeks. Physical therapy and rehabilitation programs are important in regaining knee functions.
When can I return to sports after meniscus tear surgery?
Depending on the patient's recovery process and the surgical procedure performed, the return to sports may take between 6 weeks and 3 months. It is important to follow the recommendations of your doctor and physiotherapist.
Can a meniscus tear reoccur?
Yes, meniscus tears can reoccur, especially if proper rehabilitation is not performed or if activities that put excessive load on the knee joint continue. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to post-treatment recommendations and maintain knee health.
