Non-Surgical Meniscus Treatment

What is Meniscus?

The meniscus is the name given to each of the two cartilage discs located in the knee joint and located between the femur (thigh bone) and tibia (shin bone). It plays an important role to ensure the stability of the knee joint and to show shock absorbing properties. The menisci are called the inner meniscus (medial meniscus) and the outer meniscus (lateral meniscus).

The menisci act as a protective barrier against injury and overstrain. It reduces the friction of the joint surfaces by absorbing the impact during movements in the knee joint. It also supports joint stability by providing harmonious movement between the femur and tibia. The surface of the menisci is not flat but curved inward, and these folds allow the joint surfaces to adapt better.

Meniscus injuries usually occur as a result of excessive bending of the knee, forcing, sudden rotational movements or traumas. These injuries may present with symptoms such as pain, swelling, stiffness in the knee, locking sensation and limitation of movement. Treatment methods may include rest, ice application, physical therapy, medication, and in some cases, surgical intervention.

Meniscus injuries can be serious and lead to knee joint problems if left untreated. Therefore, it is important to consult an orthopedic specialist in case of suspected meniscus injury. The specialist will help the patient recover by determining the appropriate diagnosis and treatment methods.

How Meniscus Tear Occurs and What Are Its Symptoms?

Meniscus tear occurs when the meniscus is damaged as a result of excessive bending of the knee, rotational movements, sudden strains or traumas. This type of tear can occur during sports activities or in daily life with a rapid rotation of the knee. It is more common in people who play sports such as football, basketball and tennis. With the aging process, the meniscus tissue can weaken and tear more easily.

Symptoms of a meniscus tear may include:

1. Knee pain: A tear usually causes pain on the inside or outside of the knee. The pain may increase with movement and may become worse during activities such as bending or squatting.

2. Swelling: Swelling may occur in the knee at the site of the tear. Swelling is usually evident on the part of the tear.

3. Stiffness and locking sensation in the knee: A meniscus tear can cause a locking or snagging sensation in the knee. This condition is characterized by an inability to fully straighten the knee or a feeling of limitation in movement.

4. Clicking sound in the knee: A clicking sound may be heard in the knee during the tear. This sound can be produced by the movement of torn meniscus pieces in the knee joint.

5. Limitation of movement: Movement restriction may be felt in the knee due to the tear. It may be particularly difficult to fully bend or straighten the knee.

If a meniscus tear is suspected, it is important to consult an orthopedic specialist. The specialist can make the correct diagnosis by evaluating the physical examination, imaging tests (such as MRI), and the patient's symptoms. Treatment options may include rest, ice application, medication, physical therapy and, if necessary, surgical intervention. The treatment method is determined depending on the size and location of the tear and the patient's condition.

Non-Surgical Meniscus Tear Treatment

In the case of a meniscus tear, surgery may not be required, and in some cases, non-surgical treatment methods can be effective. Non-surgical meniscal tear treatment options include:

1. Conservative treatment: Many people with a meniscus tear can recover with conservative treatment. These treatment methods include rest, not putting too much weight on the knee, applying ice, and using anti-inflammatory drugs for pain and swelling. In addition, the physiotherapy program aims to strengthen the knee and increase its flexibility. Physiotherapy includes exercises and therapy techniques to strengthen muscles, improve range of motion, and increase knee stability.

2. Intramuscular injections: In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be given to reduce pain and inflammation in the knee. These injections may relieve the symptoms associated with the tear, but are not curative. For this reason, injections are often used for temporary relief of symptoms.

3. PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) treatment: PRP treatment involves injecting enriched platelets obtained from the patient's own blood into the area of ​​the tear. The growth factors and healing properties of platelets can help speed up the healing process of the tear.

Non-surgical treatment methods can control symptoms and restore functionality in some patients with meniscal tears. However, if the meniscal tear is large and symptoms are severe or do not respond to conservative treatments, surgical intervention may be required. Therefore, a person with a suspected meniscal tear should consult with an orthopedic specialist to evaluate appropriate treatment options.