Meniscus tear is a common orthopedic problem that can seriously affect the quality of life. This tear usually occurs as a result of excessive strain on the knee or sudden rotation movements. At first, it manifests itself with symptoms such as mild pain, swelling and limitation of movement. However, over time, this situation can negatively affect a person’s daily life. Individuals with meniscus tears may experience pain and discomfort in their knees, especially when they move. Even simple daily activities can become challenging. There may be difficulty in routine tasks such as climbing stairs, sitting and standing, or standing for long periods of time. This situation may reduce the individual’s quality of life and cause them to withdraw from social activities.
What causes a meniscus tear?
A meniscus tear is an injury that usually occurs as a result of excessive strain on the knee, sudden rotation movements or excessive load on the knee. Bending and turning the knee, especially during sports activities, can place excessive stress on the meniscus. Sudden twisting movements are a common cause of injury, especially among athletes. An abnormal force or impact on the knee, especially in contact sports, can cause a meniscus tear. Sports such as football, basketball, skiing and tennis can increase the risk of these types of injuries.
Excessive load on the knee, especially when combined with a sudden change of ground when the knee is bent, can cause a meniscus tear. This condition usually occurs during sports or daily activities. In some cases, long-term changes in the knee joint can weaken the meniscus tissue and increase the risk of tearing. This condition is often associated with joint problems such as osteoarthritis. The meniscus can lose its flexibility and strength as we age. This may increase the risk of meniscus tears in older individuals. Age-related changes can cause the meniscus tissue to weaken and become more susceptible to tearing. Symptoms of meniscus tear are as follows:
- Sudden, sharp pain in the knee
- Swelling in the knee
- Restriction of movement in the knee
- Locking or stuck feeling in the knee
- A crackling or clicking sound in the knee
What is good for meniscus tear?
Meniscus tear is an injury that occurs as a result of partial or complete tearing of the cartilage called meniscus, which is located between the two bones of the knee joint. The meniscus helps the knee joint absorb shock and keep the joint moving properly. A meniscus tear can cause pain, swelling and limitation of movement in the knee. Here are some things that are good for meniscus tears:
- Rest: People with meniscus tears should rest their knees. This will help reduce pain and swelling.
- Ice application: Applying ice will help reduce pain and swelling. You can apply ice compress to your knee for 15 minutes every 2-3 hours.
- Compression: You can reduce swelling by wrapping your knee with a bandage or compression stocking.
- Upgrade: You can reduce swelling by keeping your knee above heart level.
- Pain medications: Pain medications will help reduce the pain. Pain medications can be over-the-counter or prescription.
- Physiotheraphy: Physical therapy will help you regain the mobility and strength of your knee. Physical therapy usually begins within a few weeks after a meniscus tear.
Is walking good for a meniscus tear?
People with a meniscus tear should rest their knees completely and avoid the above-mentioned activities until the pain and swelling subsides. Therefore, for people with a meniscus tear, walking is not a good idea in the first few days. However, once the pain and swelling subside, walking can play an important role in treating a meniscus tear. Walking helps strengthen the knee joint and improve mobility. Additionally, walking can help lose weight and improve overall health.
People with a meniscus tear should consult their doctor before starting to walk. The doctor will create a suitable program for walking according to the condition of your knee. Here are some points to consider while walking for people with meniscus tears:
- Do not strain your knee.
- If you feel pain, stop walking.
- When walking, walk on level ground.
- Make sure your shoes are comfortable and supportive while hiking.
How is a meniscus tear treated without surgery?
Treatment for a meniscus tear varies depending on the severity of the tear. In mild meniscus tears, conservative treatment can be applied. Conservative treatment consists of methods such as rest, ice application, compression and elevation (RICE). Additionally, pain medications and physical therapy may also be administered. Conservative treatment is the most common treatment for meniscus tear healing. Conservative treatment includes:
- Rest
- ice application
- Wrapping your knee with a bandage or compression stocking
- Keeping your knee above heart level
- Physiotheraphy
- Medicines prescribed by your doctor
The chances of healing a meniscus tear with non-surgical treatment depends on the severity of the tear and the age of the person. In mild meniscus tears, the chance of recovery is high with non-surgical treatment. However, in severe meniscus tears, the chance of recovery with non-surgical treatment is lower.
What should those with a meniscus tear pay attention to?
There are several important factors that individuals with meniscus tears should pay attention to during the treatment and recovery process. People with meniscus tears should rest their knees completely and avoid activities that strain their knees until the pain and swelling subside. In addition, ice should be applied regularly. Apply the ice compress to your knee for 15 minutes every 2-3 hours. You can reduce swelling by wrapping your knee with a bandage or compression stocking. Things those with a meniscus tear should not do:
- He/she should avoid activities that strain his/her knees.
- He/she should avoid twisting or rotating his/her knees.
- Activities such as bending or extending the knees for long periods of time should be avoided.
- He should avoid putting heavy loads on his knees.