Meniscus Injury
The knee menisci are shock-absorbent, cartilage discs that sit inside the knee. They play an important role in knee mechanics as well as preventing impingement inside the knee. Injuries to the meniscus are either traumatic or degenerative. (1) Traumatic injuries are more common in a younger population and come from extremely forceful rotation. Degenerative injuries are more common with age and come as the tissue loses some of its absorbent properties.
Traumatic tears have difficulty putting weight on that knee along with clicking, catching, locking or buckling following a loaded rotational injury. Degenerative tears often do not have a known event but start to develop movement related pain, specifically with knee bending. They also experience clicking, catching, locking and giving way. Both types of injury are often very tender over the joint where the injury occured.
Treatment of meniscus injuries follows the typical injury profile of PEACE and LOVE (hyper link to blog post). This is the best way to reduce the long term impact of the injury. Individuals should avoid twisting on the knee while weight bearing. High impact sports like soccer or tennis should be eliminated at the beginning. Mobility of soft tissues around the knee is required. Joint movement must also be maintained and manipulation of joint restrictions is useful. Any biomechanical deficits in the hip or knee should be addressed. Quadricep and hamstring strength must be maintained through the rehabilitative process. (2)
If you have an issue that you would like some guidance with, give us a call at (616) 301-1702.
Goldblatt JP, Lafrance RM, J Steve Smith MD. Managing meniscus injuries: The diagnosis. Imaging. 2009 Sep 1;26
Matthews P, St-Pierre DM. Recovery of muscle strength following arthroscopic meniscectomy. Journal of Orthopedic and Sports Physical Therapy. 1996 Jan;23(1):18-26