It is a damage to the cartilage tissue inside the knee. It is a C-shaped cartilage structure located between the femur (thigh bone) and tibia (shin bone) in the knee joint. It may occur as a result of sudden turning, bending or excessive load on the knee. meniscus tear It usually causes pain, swelling, locking and limitation of movement in the knee. Treatment may include rest, physical therapy, and surgery when necessary.
Meniscus Tear Symptoms
You may feel pain in the torn meniscus area. Pain is usually felt on the inner or outer part of the knee. It can cause fluid accumulation around the knee. It may cause you to feel swelling in your knee. Compression of pieces of the meniscus in the knee joint can result in a locking sensation of the knee. There may be a locking sensation in the knee when bending or straightening it. meniscus tear In people with this condition, rustling or cracking sounds may be heard when the knee is moved.
It may become difficult for the knee to reach its full range of motion. Knee bending and straightening movements may be limited. Stiffness may be felt in the knee in the morning. This may be evident during the first movements after waking up. Symptoms can vary in different people and can sometimes be confused with other knee problems. meniscus tear In case of doubt it is important to consult a doctor. Your doctor will evaluate the symptoms and recommend appropriate treatment.
Meniscus Tear Risk Factors
It is often associated with the aging process. With advancing age, meniscus tissue may weaken and the risk of tearing may increase. Some studies show that the risk is higher in men than in women. High-impact sports and sports that require sudden posture changes and turns (e.g., football, basketball, tennis) increase the risk. Consistently overexerting your knees increases the risk, especially when combined with low body flexibility or weak muscles. Trauma or injuries to the knee, sprains or crushes of the knee increase the risk.
In family history meniscus tear In individuals with this condition, the likelihood of this condition occurring in other family members may increase. Being overweight puts extra stress on the knees and may increase the risk. Using improper body mechanics or form during sports or exercise can increase risk. Risk factors are among the situations that individuals should pay attention to. To reduce these risk factors, it is necessary to exercise regularly. It is also important to use proper techniques and avoid overexertion. Additionally, using appropriate protective equipment during sports can also reduce the risk.
Meniscus Tear Treatment Methods
For small or moderate tears, conservative methods can be used to manage symptoms. Methods such as rest, ice application, and compression may be part of this treatment plan. Additionally, anti-inflammatory medications may be prescribed to reduce pain and inflammation. Methods such as physiotherapy, muscle strengthening exercises and stretching are important. These are used to increase knee stability and improve function.
Physiotherapists usually prepare a personalized exercise program. Medications such as steroids or hyaluronic acid can be injected into the knee. These injections can relieve symptoms by reducing pain and inflammation. In certain cases, it may be necessary to repair the tear surgically. The tear can be repaired by sewing or patching.
This method can be especially useful in young and active individuals. In some cases, meniscus tear It may be too large or complex to treat. In this case, it may be necessary to surgically remove partial or complete meniscus tissue. This procedure is called “meniscectomy.” The tear can also be treated by removing the damaged area and reconstructing it using healthy tissue. This procedure is generally preferred in younger and active individuals. Meniscus tear treatmentIt usually requires a specific approach depending on the severity of symptoms, the type of tear, and the patient's health condition. Therefore, it is important to consult with an orthopedic surgeon or specialist physician for the most appropriate treatment plan.
