Meniscus Injury

 The problem

• Within the knee joint there are two menisci located on the top of the tibia – one on the inside (medial meniscus) and one on the outside (lateral meniscus)
• The menisci are made of cartilage and provide stability and cushioning to the knee
• Meniscus injury usually occurs as a result of a forceful twist or rotation through the knee, especially when weight is on that leg and the foot is planted.
• Degenerative changes of the knee may also contribute to meniscus injury 

Interesting facts

• The medial collateral ligament of the knee has some attachments to the medial meniscus. It is for this reason, that people may experience a meniscus and ligamentous injury simultaneously

What you can expect/look out for

• Swelling and stiffness
• A popping or catching sensation
• A locked sensation when trying to fully extend or bend the knee
• Pain with weight bearing activities, especially those which involve twisting or rotation
• The knee may feel unstable and/or buckling may occur, especially after swelling subsides
  
  

Hints for self-management

• Rest
• Ice
• Avoid aggravating activities
  
  

Management options

• Small tears may be managed successfully with a conservative approach – initially consisting of rest, followed by physiotherapy for a guided strengthening program
• Larger tears may require arthroscopic surgery. In some cases the tear can be repaired, while in other instances the injured portion of the meniscus is trimmed and removed.

More information

• The menisci have a relatively poor blood supply, with the outer portion, often known as the “red zone”, being the most vascularized. If the tear is small (<3mm) and located on the outer portion of the meniscus it has a better chance of healing than a tear that extends to an area with a poorer blood supply
  
  
  
  

At Sydney Sports and Orthopaedic Physiotherapy our highly qualified physiotherapists specialise in the assessment, treatment and prevention of neuromusculoskeletal injuries.

Contact us today - 9252 5770

This handout was prepared by Sydney Sports and Orthopaedic Physiotherapy and is intended as a general information service. Please note that the information provided is not intended as a substitute for advice from a registered physician or healthcare professional. If symptoms persist, please consult your doctor.