The research is clear, patients do better with physical therapy.
The meniscus is a C-shaped cartilage structure that acts as a cushion and stabilizer in the knee joint. Each knee has two menisci, one on the inner (medial) side and one on the outer (lateral) side. Meniscus tears occur when there is damage to this cartilage, which can happen due to sudden twisting movements, aging, or degenerative conditions. Tears come in many different shapes and sizes, as well as locations - meaning some tears can be very painful and others not at all.
Causes of Meniscus Tears
Traumatic Injury: One of the most common causes of meniscus tears is a sudden, forceful twisting of the knee joint. This can happen during sports, such as soccer or basketball, or even in everyday activities like lifting heavy objects.
Degenerative Changes: As we age, the menisci can become more prone to tears. These are often associated with gradual wear and tear.
Symptoms of Meniscus Tears
The symptoms of a meniscus tear can vary significantly depending on the severity and type of tear. Common signs and symptoms include:
Pain: Pain, often localized to the joint line.
Swelling: The knee may become swollen as well.
Limited Range of Motion: A torn meniscus can make it difficult to fully extend or flex the knee.
Popping/Clicking Sensation: Some people report hearing or feeling a popping sensation at the time of injury and afterward.
Locking or Catching: A torn meniscus can sometimes cause the knee to lock or catch during movement.
Treatment Options
The appropriate treatment for a meniscus tear depends on several factors, and is usually best discussed with your physical therapist or orthopedist. Here are some common treatment options:
Rest and Ice: In many cases, rest and ice can help reduce pain and swelling in the knee.
Physical Therapy: Physical therapy can be beneficial to strengthen the muscles around the knee and improve joint stability.
Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs may be prescribed temporarily to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.
Surgical Options: If conservative treatments are ineffective or if the tear is severe, surgery may be necessary. This should be treated as a last resort.
Why Try Physical Therapy First?
At Rogers Physical Therapy, we offer hour-long treatment sessions with your therapist, meaning you can ask as many questions as you need to in order to become an expert in managing and understanding your condition.
The majority of meniscal tears can be treated conservatively and do not require surgery.
Even if you do eventually need surgery, your outcome will be better for spending time in physical therapy first.
Even surgery comes with downsides. Research is showing that any surgery can speed up overall degeneration of the joint over time.
You can schedule a free phone consultation at RPT to talk about your knee pain.
- Dr. Greg Rogers, physical therapist
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