What is the Meniscus?
The menisci are C-shaped cartilage structures located in the knee joint, positioned between the rounded lower end of the thigh bone (femur) and the flat upper surface of the shin bone (tibia). They act as cushions and stabilizers, helping to balance the contact between bones during knee movements. Menisci absorb shock, increase joint stability, and protect the joint cartilage.
Only the outer one-third of the meniscus has a blood supply, while the inner part is nourished by joint fluid. For this reason, injuries in the inner region heal more slowly. Menisci are exposed to stress even during daily activities and are under much greater strain during sports. Because the lateral meniscus is more mobile, it is less prone to injury compared to the medial meniscus. Medial meniscus tears are about three times more common.
What is a Meniscus Tear?
A meniscus tear usually occurs due to sudden twisting, bending, or excessive strain on the knee. There are two menisci: the medial (inner) and the lateral (outer). Tears may result from trauma, age-related degeneration, or congenital structural abnormalities.
Symptoms of a Meniscus Tear
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Pain in the knee (especially during movement)
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Swelling and stiffness
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A sensation of “locking” or catching in the knee
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Restricted range of motion
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Clicking or popping sounds from the joint
Causes of Meniscus Tears
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Sudden twisting or bending movements
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Falling directly on the knee
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Squatting, kneeling, or lifting heavy objects
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Sports that require sudden changes of direction, such as football or basketball
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Age-related joint degeneration
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Conditions that damage the knee structure, such as osteoarthritis
Meniscus tears in individuals over the age of 40 are often due to degeneration rather than trauma. In fact, more than 40% of people over the age of 65 are found to have a meniscus tear.
First Aid in Meniscus Injuries
The initial steps that should be taken immediately after a meniscus injury include:
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Rest (avoiding weight-bearing activities)
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Cold application (ice)
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Stabilizing the knee and avoiding overuse
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Use of pain-relieving medication if necessary
Meniscus Treatment
The choice of treatment depends on the type of tear, the patient’s age, activity level, and the severity of symptoms.
1. Non-Surgical Treatment
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Physical therapy and targeted exercises
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Pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory medications
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Activity modification and restriction
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Use of a knee brace or support
2. Surgical Treatment
a. Meniscus Repair
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Suitable for tears located in the outer region of the meniscus where there is blood supply.
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Performed arthroscopically (using a minimally invasive camera technique).
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Recovery takes longer, but the meniscus is preserved.
b. Meniscectomy
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The damaged, non-healing part of the meniscus is removed.
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Allows for a faster recovery process.
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Usually preferred for tears in the inner region of the meniscus.
Symptoms:
Knee pain: May start as mild but can worsen over time. Pain typically increases during walking, squatting, or climbing stairs.
Swelling: The knee may swell within hours after the injury.
Locking sensation: The knee may suddenly get stuck or be unable to fully extend.
Catching or giving way: A feeling of instability or the knee “giving out” may occur.
Clicking or popping sounds: A “click” or “pop” may be heard during movement.
Restricted movement: The knee may not fully bend or straighten.
Stiffness and tenderness: Sensitivity to touch, especially on the inner or outer side of the knee.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- The most common symptoms of a meniscus tear are pain, swelling, and a feeling of the knee “giving way.” In larger tears, a fragment of the meniscus may shift and move into the joint space, causing the knee to lock and making it difficult for the person to walk.
The protective cartilage tissues located between the knee joints are called the menisci. They can tear as a result of sudden movements of the knee or excessive weight being placed on it. While meniscus tears are more common in athletes, the tissue also weakens with age, and even a simple action such as bending your knee can cause a tear.
- Experts warn that if a meniscus tear is left untreated, it may lead to permanent disability. To protect yourself from meniscus problems, it is important to pay attention to certain risk factors. Meniscus tears that develop due to inactivity, excess weight, or age-related changes can result in long-term damage if not treated properly.
During meniscus tear surgery, removing or repairing the tear usually takes about one hour.
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