Meniscus injuries are one of the most common injuries to the knee joint and can arise for many reasons. Knowing how a meniscus reacts to certain situations and how this injury should be treated is essential to avoid long-term complications. Therefore, we are going to explore in detail what causes it, how it is diagnosed and, above all, what are the options that exist for its treatment and recovery.
The menisci, small fibrocartilage structures located between the femur and tibia, act as dampers and distribute the loads on the knee, avoiding direct contact between both bones. These structures are essential in the biomechanics of the joint, but they are also vulnerable to damage, especially in situations of intense physical activity or sudden movements.
How does a meniscus tear occur?
Meniscus tears can be of various types, depending on their cause and characteristics. Among the most frequent are traumatic, degenerative and mechanical.This damage can occur after sudden twists, excessive bending or forced movements of the knee. For example, in sports such as football or skiing, where sudden rotational movements are common, the risk increases considerably.
In addition, degenerative fractures are common in older people due to natural wear of the meniscus over time. Some everyday activities such as kneeling, squatting or lifting heavy objects can be enough to trigger this type of injury.
Common symptoms of a meniscus injury
Symptoms of a meniscus tear vary depending on the type and severity of the injury, but some common signs include:
- Localized pain, especially when performing movements such as flexing or extending the knee.
- Inflammation in the knee after the injury.
- Joint blockage, preventing certain movements.
- Sensation of snap or instability when walking or standing.
In many cases, those who suffer from this injury may also experience difficulty to remain in the same position for a long time or to get up after sitting.
Diagnosis: How to confirm a torn meniscus
Diagnosing a meniscus tear begins with a detailed physical examination. The doctor will evaluate the mobility of the knee, will look for signs of inflammation and may perform specific maneuvers, such as the McMurray test, to identify pain in the affected area.
In cases where the diagnosis is not conclusive, imaging tests such as magnetic resonance, considered the most effective method to directly visualize the state of the meniscus. This type of test not only helps to confirm the injury, but also allows to identify its exact location, type of tear and possible associated damage.
In exceptional cases where doubts persist, a diagnostic arthroscopy may be performed, which allows the specialist to directly observe the inside of the joint.
Treatment options for a torn meniscus
Treatment for a meniscus injury depends on multiple factors such as: patient age, the type of break and your recovery expectations. Not all tears require surgery, and in many cases a conservative approach is sufficient.
Conservative treatment
For less severe injuries, especially degenerative ones, a program of rehabilitation which may include:
- Relative rest to avoid aggravating the injury.
- cold application and compression bandages to reduce inflammation in the area.
- exercises for strengthen the quadriceps and stabilize the knee.
- Infiltrations, such as hyaluronic acid or plasma rich in growth factors, in cases of persistent pain.
This type of treatment can last between two and four months, and is usually enough for the patient to regain functionality.
Surgical treatment
When the pain does not subside or the knee locks due to the tear, arthroscopic surgery may be necessary. This minimally invasive technique involves making small incisions to introduce a camera and the instruments necessary to repair or remove the damaged parts of the meniscus.
Depending on the case, the surgeon may choose to:
- Partial meniscectomy: removal of the damaged part of the meniscus to relieve symptoms.
- meniscal suture: meniscus repair in injuries located in areas with good blood supply.
Meniscal suturing is a more conservative procedure that seeks to preserve the functionality of the meniscus, although it entails a longer recovery time.
Rehabilitation: key to a full recovery
After a meniscus tear, whether treated conservatively or surgically, the rehabilitation is essential. The main objectives include:
- Recover the Joint mobility.
- Strengthen leg muscles.
- Restore knee stability and proprioception.
For patients who undergo a partial meniscectomy, daily activities can usually be resumed within four weeks. On the other hand, those who have had a meniscal suture removed may take three to four months to return to normal activities due to the time required for the tissue to heal.
Physiotherapy plays a fundamental role in this process, especially at the beginning, when more personalized attention is required to avoid joint stiffness or loss of mobility. Muscle mass.
Meniscus surgery, although necessary in some cases, is not always the best option. In degenerative injuries, many patients can lead a completely normal life without surgery, with proper management of pain and inflammation. The most appropriate treatment for a meniscus tear will always depend on the individual characteristics of each patient, the type of injury and their personal goals, whether it is to walk without discomfort or return to playing sports.