Knee meniscus treatment, physical therapy: Focus Fizikal✓

The meniscus is a structure in the knee that acts as a cushion between the femur (thigh bone) and the tibia (shin bone). It is made up of cartilage that helps absorb shock and stabilize the knee. The meniscus can become damaged due to injury, repetitive strain, or aging, which can lead to pain, stiffness, and decreased mobility. A meniscus tear is a common injury, especially in athletes and people who do physical work.

Treatment for a meniscus tear depends on the type of injury, its severity, and the patient’s overall health. Treatment can range from conservative methods, such as physical therapy and ice, to surgical interventions, such as arthroscopic surgery.

Meniscus damage can cause a variety of symptoms, and the intensity of the pain depends on the severity of the injury. While some people may have a meniscus injury without any significant symptoms, others may experience severe pain, difficulty moving, and stiffness in their knee. The most common symptoms that indicate a meniscus injury include:

• Knee pain: Pain usually occurs on the inner or outer side of the knee, and is usually worse when bending or rotating the leg.
•  Difficulty moving the knee: A feeling of the knee being blocked or locked, where it cannot be fully straightened.
• Swelling: The knee may become swollen due to inflammation caused by the meniscus injury.
• Feeling of instability: The knee may become unstable or weak when walking or running.
• Stiffness: Difficulty bending or straightening the leg due to pain and swelling.

• Injuries (sudden movements, falls, impacts)
• Degenerative changes (aging, wear of the meniscus)
• Excessive loads and repetitive movements
• Improper movement or poor technique during sports activities

Damage to the meniscus can occur due to various causes, and this condition is a very common injury that affects the functionality of the knee and quality of life. The meniscus is a cartilaginous structure that acts as a cushion between the femur (thigh bone) and the tibia (shin bone), helping to absorb shock and stabilize the joint. Due to its crucial role, damage to the meniscus can seriously interfere with mobility and cause pain and discomfort. Damage to the meniscus is usually associated with injury, aging or excessive exertion, and these factors can affect its function in different ways.

• Injuries: Sudden movements, rotation or impacts during sports activities can cause stretching or tearing of the meniscus. These injuries are common in sports such as football, basketball, tennis and jumping.
• Aging: As we age, the meniscus becomes less elastic and more susceptible to tears. Older people are more prone to degenerative changes in the meniscus, which can lead to pain and decreased knee function.
• Excessive physical exertion: Prolonged stress on the knee, especially in people who engage in physical labor or sports, can cause meniscus damage.

Treatment for a torn meniscus depends on the type of injury and its severity. In most cases, treatment can involve conservative methods, but in more severe cases, when the damage is severe, surgery is necessary. Here are some approaches to treating a torn meniscus:

Conservative treatment:

• Rest: Reducing activity and stress on the injured knee to allow for recovery. Rest is especially important in the early stages of the injury.
• Ice therapy: Applying ice to the injured knee helps reduce swelling and pain. Applying ice for 15-20 minutes several times a day is recommended.
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Medications such as ibuprofen can help reduce pain and inflammation.

Physical therapy: Physical therapists use specialized exercise techniques to help strengthen the muscles of the knee, improve mobility, and reduce pain. Therapy may focus on improving flexibility and stability of the joint.

Surgical Treatment:

If conservative treatment does not provide relief or if the meniscus damage is severe, surgery may be necessary. Common options include:

• Arthroscopy: A minimally invasive surgical procedure that uses small incisions and a camera to precisely view the inside of the knee. During arthroscopy, the surgeon can remove or repair the damaged part of the meniscus
• Meniscus resection: In some cases, the surgeon may decide to remove a part of the meniscus that is severely damaged, thereby reducing pain and restoring function.
• Meniscus transplant: In more severe cases, when the meniscus is completely destroyed, a meniscus transplant from a donor may be considered. This procedure is less common and is used in younger patients.
  Preventing Meniscus Injuries:

While some injuries cannot be completely prevented, there are ways to reduce the risk of meniscus damage:

• Regular exercise: Strengthening the muscles around the knee can help reduce the strain on the meniscus.
• Proper technique: Proper technique during sports activities and exercises, as well as avoiding sudden rotations or loads on the knee, can prevent injuries.
• Maintaining a healthy body weight: Excess body weight creates additional pressure on the knees, which increases the risk of injury.
• Wearing the right shoes: Well-chosen shoes that provide adequate support can reduce stress on the knee.

Treating a meniscus tear requires a timely approach, from proper diagnosis to appropriate therapy. If you experience knee pain, swelling, or difficulty moving, it is important to seek professional help to avoid more serious complications. Our experts use the latest techniques to help you recover quickly and return to daily activities. Our team works with you to provide effective treatment and long-term injury prevention.