Meniscal Injury What is it? A meniscal injury refers to damage to one of the C-shaped cartilages which separate the bones in the knee joint. These cartilages are shock absorbers within the knee to assist in cushioning forces. How does it happen? The menisci in the knee are most commonly injured when the knee is twisted. This often occurs when changing directions quickly while the foot is fixed on the ground. It can also occur occasionally with no recollection of an injury. How does it feel? The symptoms after mensical injury vary depending on the severity of the injury. In a major tear the first sensation felt when a meniscus is injured is pain within the knee joint. This may be associated with a sensation of something tearing. The knee may swell up immediately and you may have difficulty walking due to pain. In lesser injuries swelling and pain may not arise till 24 hours later. The knee may also feel weak and ‘unstable’. It may produce a clicking sound, feel like it ‘locks up’ or feel like it is going to give way. You may find you have difficulty bending your knee and pain with walking. What should you do? If you have a meniscal injury you should consult your local phsiotherapist. You shouldn’t ignore the problem and continue to partcipate in exercise. This may lead to your injury getting worse which may prolong your recovery. How is it Managed? The assistance of a physiotherapist is very important in the treatment of a meniscal injury. Initially they can assist in determining which tissues have been damaged and the extent of the damage. From this they will be able to determine the most appropriate treatment. Treatment varies depending on the severity of the injury. For small tears a period of conservative physiotherapy management of 4-6 weeks is usually effective. For larger tears, arthroscopic knee surgery may be required to repair the torn meniscus. How long will it take to get better? Conservative management usually takes a period of 4 to 6 weeks to return to full function. If after 4 weeks no improvement has been made an orthopaedic review may be required. This may require the use of imaging techniques such as an x-ray, CT scan or MRI. Rehabilitation following surgery will also take a period of around 3-5 weeks. These estimates are only guidelines however, as every patient is different and will differ in their response to injury, surgery and rehabilitation. What can I do now that I’m receiving treatment? In the acute stage it is important to get rid of swelling that has arisen in the knee joint because of the injury. This will involve regular icing, compression, elevation and rest, and avoidance of hot showers, heat rubs, and alcohol. After 48 hours if swelling still remains regular icing will still need to be performed. Your phsiotherapist will guide you through the stages of your rehabilitation process. You should perform any exercises your physiotherapist has given you at home.
Physio Professionals (07) 5438 9111
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