Agape Physio can treat...

Meniscal Tears

Meniscal tears involve damage to the cartilage in the knee, causing pain and swelling. Explore their symptoms and treatment options, including arthroscopic surgery and physical therapy.

About this condition

Meniscus tears are among the most common knee injuries, especially in athletes but also in the general population, particularly as they age. The meniscus is a piece of cartilage in your knee that cushions and stabilises the joint, protecting the bones from wear and tear. A meniscus tear can occur in any part of the cartilage and due to various activities, from a sudden pivot or twist in sports to a simple awkward turn while walking. Age-related degeneration can also lead to meniscal tears, even from mundane activities due to the weakening of cartilage over time. Here’s a detailed look at meniscus tears, the symptoms they may present, and how physiotherapy can aid in recovery.

What you may be feeling

Symptoms of a meniscal tear include:

Pain in the knee, especially when twisting or rotating the knee.
Swelling or stiffness, particularly within the first 48 hours after the injury.
A popping sensation during the injury.
Difficulty bending and straightening the leg fully.
A sensation that the knee is locked in place when trying to move it.
A feeling of the knee giving way or being unstable.

How we can help you

Pain and Swelling Management

Initial treatments focus on reducing pain and swelling, using ice, compression, elevation, and modalities like ultrasound or electrical stimulation.

Range of Motion

Early intervention aims to restore normal knee joint range of motion through gentle stretching exercises.

Strengthening Exercises

Building strength in the muscles around the knee, such as the quadriceps and hamstrings, can help support and stabilize the knee joint.

Balance and Proprioception Training

Improving balance and proprioception (sense of joint position) helps prevent further injury and ensures stability in the knee.

Functional Training

As recovery progresses, exercises become more dynamic and functional, tailored to the patient’s specific activities or sports, to ensure a safe return to these activities.

Manual Therapy:

Techniques like massage, mobilisation, and soft tissue work can help improve knee function and reduce pain.

So, what next?

The specific physiotherapy approach will depend on the severity of the meniscus tear, the patient’s overall health, and their activity level. For less severe tears, physiotherapy alone may be sufficient to recover fully. In cases where surgery is needed, physiotherapy is crucial for rehabilitation and regaining full knee function post-surgery. It’s important for patients to follow their physiotherapist’s advice and tailored exercise program closely to ensure the best possible recovery.

First time at Agape Physio? Book a free 15 minute video consult.