What is a meniscus?
A meniscus is a circular shape padding that is made of fibrous cartilage. Each knee consists of two menisci and they separate the thigh from the calves. The purpose of a meniscus is to provide stability and act as shock absorbers for when we walk, run or jump. The meniscus diffuses the forces from these movements so it does not overload your leg bones.
What causes a meniscus injury?
Meniscus can be damaged through two mechanisms. The first mechanism is trauma to the knee. This occurs when the foot is fixed onto the ground and then you excessively twist your knee. This is mostly associated with the younger sporting population. Rugby and soccer are sports that are most prone to this knee injury. The second mechanism is a degenerative tear due to natural ageing process and is often associated with the older population.
Signs and symptoms:
- Swollen knee
- Knee pain when you bend and straighten your knee
- Unable to sit for prolonged periods of time without knee pain
- Instability during walking movements
- Clicking and/or grinding sensation.
Treatment:
The rehabilitation process of a meniscus tear is going to depend on the severity and location of the tear. If the meniscus tear is small and on the outer layer of the meniscus then it is going to have a higher probability of a recovery due adequate blood supply to the area. In contrast, if the meniscus tear is large and in the deep layer of the meniscus then there is a low probability of recovery due to inadequate blood supply. A physiotherapist will be able to determine if you have sustained a meniscus tear. MRI may be warranted to investigate the extend of the damage. Large tears will often require arthroscopic surgery to repair the meniscus. Physiotherapy is recommended as the first line of treatment. If you do not respond well to physiotherapy management then surgery can be considered as a treatment option. It is important to note that a collaboration with your GP, physiotherapist and surgeon is the best way to determine if surgery is required for your knee injury.
Physiotherapy can be very effective at fixing small and degenerative meniscus tears. Physiotherapy involves rehabilitation exercises to help increase muscle strength and stability to support the knee. Range of motion exercises will also be used if knee movement is limited due to the tear. A physiotherapist will use manual therapy to help reduce swelling and pain. Meniscus injuries can take around 6-8 weeks to heal if it is a small tear.
It is important to see a physiotherapist quickly after a meniscus tear to limit knee complications. You will be able to return to sports and other duties without further risking damage to the knee. Our expert physiotherapist will be able to help you with the rehabilitation process and get you back to enjoying your favourite activities. We also have an Instagram to help you keep updated about the latest physiotherapy tips.