Meniscal Tears
A patient with a meniscal injury will usually report a twisting event and
sometimes the sensation of a “tear” or “pop” followed
by severe pain. The patient will sometimes report the knee “locks up” and
there may be some edema (swelling).
The knee contains two menisci, a fibrocartilaginous material which functions
as stabilizers of the knee and provide a measure of shock absorption.
Diagnosis is made via plain films, clinical history, and confirmation is generally
made through an arthroscopy, rarely by MRI (magnetic resonance image).
Some meniscal tears heal spontaneously after a period of rest, elevation and
icing. Crutches are often used until the patient can walk without pain. Physical
therapy would include range of motion and a quadriceps strengthening program
to decrease edema and regain any muscle tone that may have been lost.
If the knee persistently “locks up” or the patient is unable to
return to full activity, an MRI (magnetic resonance image) could be ordered
to rule out a cyst or blockage. Arthroscopically, the meniscus will be repaired
or partially removed with potentially excellent results. However, exercise
program would be the first choice in conservative management.
