What is a meniscus tear?

What is a meniscus tear?

‍

A meniscus tear is a common knee injury that involves damage to the meniscus, which is a C-shaped piece of cartilage that cushions and stabilizes the knee joint. Each knee has two menisci, one on the inside (medial meniscus) and one on the outside (lateral meniscus). The menisci act as shock absorbers, distribute forces within the knee, and aid in joint stability and smooth movement.

‍

The medial meniscus (inner part) is injured more frequently than the lateral meniscus (outer part). Injury in the area may occur when the foot is fixed on the ground and the femur (thigh bone) is rotated inwards, as when turning and getting out of a car. Outward rotation of the femur (thigh bone) on a fixed tibia (shin bone) may tear the lateral meniscus. Simple squatting or trauma may also cause a tear.

‍

Common symptoms of meniscus tear

‍

The symptoms of a meniscus tear can vary depending on the location, severity, and type of tear. 

‍

Common signs and symptoms include:

‍

1. Pain: Meniscus tears often cause pain along the joint line of the knee. The pain may be acute or chronic and can worsen with forced movements, especially during forced knee extension (straightening of the knee) or maximum knee flexion (knee bending). 
2. Swelling: A meniscus tear can result in knee swelling due to inflammation. The knee may appear puffy or feel full and tight.
3. Restricted range of motion: If the joint is swollen, there is usually limitation of knee movements  particularly difficulty fully straightening or bending the knee.
4. Locking or catching: In some cases, a torn meniscus can cause the knee to lock or catch, making it difficult to fully extend the knee.
5. Instability or giving way: Unexpected locking or giving way during walking often occurs, causing safety problems. 

‍

What causes a meniscus tear?

‍

Meniscus tears can occur due to various causes, including:

‍

1. Trauma: A sudden, forceful twisting or rotating movement of the knee can cause a meniscus tear. This can happen during activities such as sports, particularly those that involve pivoting or sudden changes in direction.
2. Degenerative changes: As we age, the menisci can become more prone to degeneration and weaken over time. Even minor movements or activities can lead to a tear in a degenerated meniscus.

‍

How can physical therapy help? 

‍

Physical therapy can play a vital role in the treatment of a meniscus tear, depending on the location, severity, and individual circumstances. The goals of physical therapy for a meniscus tear may include:

1. Pain and inflammation management: Physical therapists may use modalities such as ice therapy, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation to help reduce pain and inflammation in the knee.
2. Range of motion exercises: Physical therapists will guide individuals through a low load or gentle range of motion exercises then gradually progress to a long duration stretching to improve knee mobility and prevent stiffness. 
3. Strengthening exercises: Physical therapists prescribe exercises to strengthen the muscles surrounding the knee joint, such as the quadriceps and hamstrings. Strengthening these muscles can provide stability and support to the knee, helping to protect the meniscus and improve overall function.
4. Balance and proprioception training: Meniscus tears can affect balance and proprioception (awareness of body position in space). Physical therapists can incorporate exercises and activities to improve these skills, helping to restore knee stability and reduce the risk of further injury.
5. Functional training: Physical therapists focus on restoring functional abilities required for daily activities and specific tasks. They provide exercises and activities that simulate functional movements to improve strength, coordination, and balance to help the patients resume a full level of functional activities.
6. Biomechanical and postural analysis: Physical therapists may assess posture and biomechanics to identify any abnormal mechanics or postural imbalances that may contribute to meniscus tears. They can provide guidance on proper trunk and lower limbs alignment, posture, and movement techniques to reduce strain on the knee joint.
7. Activity modification and education: Physical therapists can provide guidance on modifying activities or sports that may cause or aggravate the meniscus tear. They may also educate individuals on proper body mechanics, warm-up exercises, and strategies to prevent future injuries and to reinforce the importance of selecting activities that do not overstress the meniscus.
8. Home Exercise Program: Physical therapists will teach the patients safe execution of their home exercise program and how to incorporate it in their daily routine to achieve continued optimal recovery.

‍

 When a significant meniscus tear occurs or if nonoperative management has been unsuccessful, surgical intervention may be necessary. Primary surgical options are meniscal repair and partial meniscectomy (partial meniscus removal). Physical therapy is often recommended both before and after surgery to optimize outcomes and facilitate a safe and successful recovery.

‍

It's important to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a doctor or physical therapist, for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management plan for a meniscus tear. The specific treatment approach may vary depending on the affected area, nature of the tear, severity of the condition, age of the patient and level of activity.

Trust PeteHealth for treatment of a torn meniscus 

Looking for a physical therapist to help you manage and treat a meniscus tear? PeteHealth is the trusted physical therapy solution that you can access on your schedule, bringing you the care you need wherever you need it – including your home or office. Our licensed physical therapists are at the top of their profession, and we accept most insurance carriers.

‍

Finally – the all-in-one, professional, convenient approach to physical therapy that you deserve with PeteHealth.

‍