What are meniscal injuries?
Meniscal injuries are injuries to the meniscus, which is a C-shaped piece of cartilage located between the femur (thigh bone) and tibia (shin bone) in the knee joint. The meniscus acts as a shock absorber, cushioning the joint during movement and providing stability to the knee.
Meniscal injuries can occur due to a variety of causes, such as sudden twisting or pivoting of the knee, direct impact to the knee, or degenerative changes in the meniscus due to age or wear and tear. Athletes who participate in sports that involve running, jumping, and sudden changes of direction, such as basketball and soccer, are at increased risk of meniscal injuries.
Symptoms of a meniscal injury can include pain, swelling, stiffness, and difficulty moving the knee joint. Some people may also experience a popping or clicking sensation when they move their knee.
Treatment for meniscal injuries depends on the severity of the injury and the patient's individual circumstances. In some cases, conservative treatments such as rest, ice, compression, and physical therapy may be sufficient. In other cases, surgical intervention may be necessary.
Surgical treatment for meniscal injuries typically involves a procedure known as a meniscectomy, in which the damaged portion of the meniscus is removed. In some cases, a meniscal repair may be performed, in which the torn meniscus is sewn back together.
Following surgery, patients will typically undergo a period of rehabilitation that includes physical therapy to help regain strength and range of motion in the knee joint. The length of the rehabilitation period can vary depending on the severity of the injury and other factors.
It is important to note that meniscal injuries can have long-term consequences, even after successful treatment. People who have suffered a meniscal injury are at increased risk of developing osteoarthritis of the knee later in life.
Not all meniscal injuries require surgery. In fact, many meniscal tears can be treated non-surgically with rest, ice, compression, and physical therapy. However, some meniscal injuries may require surgical intervention.
Surgical treatment may be recommended for meniscal injuries in the following situations:
- Large tears: If the tear is large or complex, it may be difficult for the body to heal on its own, and surgical intervention may be necessary.
- Symptoms persist: If symptoms persist despite conservative treatments, surgery may be recommended.
- Younger, active individuals: In younger, more active individuals, surgery may be recommended to prevent long-term complications such as osteoarthritis.
- Tears that cause mechanical symptoms: If the tear is causing locking or catching of the knee joint, surgery may be recommended to remove or repair the damaged portion of the meniscus.
- Tears in the red zone: The outer one-third of the meniscus, called the red zone, has a good blood supply and may be able to heal on its own. However, tears in the white zone, which has a poor blood supply, may not heal on their own and may require surgical intervention.
The decision to undergo surgery for a meniscal injury will depend on a number of factors, including the severity of the injury, the patient's age and activity level, and the presence of other injuries or conditions. It is important to discuss all treatment options with your healthcare provider to determine the best course of action for your individual circumstances.