Your knees are complex joints that have to withstand a tremendous amount of force and pressure from everyday activities like walking, running, and going up and down stairs. The meniscus plays a vital role in helping cushion and stabilize the knee joint. However, meniscus injuries are one of the most common knee problems that people experience.
What is the Meniscus? The meniscus is a thick, fibrous cartilage that acts as a shock absorber between your thighbone (femur) and shinbone (tibia). There are two menisci in each knee joint - the medial meniscus on the inner side and the lateral meniscus on the outer side. These crescent-shaped discs help distribute weight across the knee while also enhancing stability and joint lubrication.
Common Meniscus Injuries Meniscus tears are one of the most frequent knee injuries, especially among athletes and older adults. They can occur with sudden twisting or rotation of the knee, often when the foot is planted and the knee is bent. Degenerative meniscus tears are also common as cartilage weakens and wears down with age. Symptoms may include pain, swelling, catching/locking of the knee, and limited mobility.
The Role of Physical Therapy If you've suffered a meniscus injury, working with a physical therapist can play a crucial role in your recovery. Depending on the severity of the tear, physical therapy may be recommended either before or after surgery. Here are some of the ways physical therapy can help:
Pain Management Your therapist will use various modalities like ice, electrical stimulation, and hands-on techniques to help reduce pain and inflammation initially.
Improve Range of Motion Gentle stretching and mobility exercises will be prescribed to gradually improve your knee's range of motion and flexibility.
Strengthen Muscles Strong quadriceps, hamstrings, and calf muscles are important for proper knee support and function. Your PT will prescribe appropriate strengthening exercises.
Restore Movement Patterns Functional exercises will retrain proper movement patterns for activities like walking, running, squatting, and stair climbing as you recover.
Prevent Future Injuries You'll learn techniques for maintaining flexibility, strength, and stability to reduce your risk of future meniscus or knee injuries.
The meniscus plays a vital role in healthy knee function, so proper rehabilitation after a meniscus injury is essential. Physical therapy can help you manage pain, restore mobility and strength, and get you moving again safely. If you've sustained a meniscus tear, consult with a physical therapist to develop an individualized treatment plan for optimal recovery.
-Lilly Koh, PT, DPT, OCS, CSCS
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