It is the tearing of the cartilage structure called meniscus in the knee joint. Meniscus tear in young people It usually occurs as a result of sudden turning, stopping or collision while doing sports. It may cause symptoms such as pain, swelling, locking and limitation of movement in the knee. Treatment may include rest, physical therapy, or surgery, depending on the size and location of the tear. It is a common type of injury among young athletes.
Symptoms of Meniscus Tear in Young People
A sudden feeling of pain in the knee is the most common symptom. This pain increases especially when you move your knee or put weight on it. Knee swelling may occur immediately after the tear or within a few hours. The swelling is a result of fluid accumulation in the knee joint due to tearing.
You may feel that your knee locks or gets stuck in one spot. This may be caused by pieces of the meniscus becoming trapped within the joint. It may be difficult to fully bend or straighten your knee.
A significant decrease in range of motion may be observed. You may hear clicking or crackling sounds as your knee moves. These sounds Meniscus tear in young people may be a symptom. You may experience a feeling of weakness or instability in the knee. This is caused by a torn meniscus destabilizing the knee joint.
A torn piece of meniscus can get stuck in the knee joint, causing the knee to lock. In this case, you may not be able to fully bend or straighten your knee. If you are experiencing one or more of these symptoms, it is important to consult an orthopedic specialist. Treatment may often require surgical intervention. However, in some cases, recovery can be achieved with physical therapy and rest.
What Causes Meniscus Tear in Young People?
It is frequently seen in sudden turning and jumping situations in sports that require high physical activity, such as football and basketball. It is caused by traumatic events such as direct blows to the knee or traffic accidents. Sudden and unexpected bending or turning of the knee Meniscus tear in young people may cause it to occur. Repetitive and excessive physical activity, sports and activities that put excessive stress on the knee predispose to ruptures.
Some young people are at risk due to genetically weak meniscus tissues. During periods of rapid growth, the knee joint and surrounding structures may be more sensitive, increasing the risk. Meniscus tear in young people can be prevented. For this reason, it is important to do sports with the right techniques and use knee protective equipment.
How to Treat Meniscus Tear in Young People?
It is important to rest the knee to allow the tear to heal. It may be necessary to avoid or limit weight bearing on the affected leg. Ice can be applied for 20 minutes several times a day to reduce swelling and pain. Wrapping the knee with elastic bandages can reduce swelling. Keeping the knee level above heart level reduces swelling.
Physical therapy exercises may be recommended to strengthen muscles and increase range of motion. Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications can be used to reduce pain and inflammation. Steroid injections may sometimes be given into the knee to reduce pain and swelling.
Meniscus tear in young people If it is large or does not respond to conservative treatment, surgical treatment is required. Arthroscopic surgery is a minimally invasive procedure. It is used to repair the tear or remove torn meniscus tissue. Repairing the tear by suturing is more common in younger patients because their healing potential is higher.
Partial meniscectomy is the removal of a small portion of the tear. Total meniscectomy is the removal of the entire meniscus. It is rarely done and not preferred. In the postoperative period, special exercises are performed to strengthen the muscles and increase the range of motion of the knee. Professional physical therapy is an important part of the rehabilitation process.
It is necessary to do regular exercises that strengthen the knee muscles. It is important to follow a good warm-up and stretching routine before exercising. When doing sports, it is necessary to use appropriate shoes and pay attention to the sports surface. Meniscus tear in young people It can usually be treated with good results. The treatment plan should be determined by the orthopedist according to the patient's condition.
