Meniscus tear is one of the most common knee injuries. Any form of activity that suddenly requires you to forcefully twist or rotate your knee, especially when putting your full weight on it, can lead to a meniscus tear. There are different types of tears in the different types of menisci in the knee joint. Each knee has two C-shaped pieces of cartilage that act like a cushion between your tibia (shin bone) and your femur (thigh bone). A torn meniscus causes pain, swelling and stiffness. You might also feel a block to knee motion and have trouble extending your knee fully.
A torn meniscus can occur as a result from any activity that causes you to forcefully twist or rotate your knee. This includes sudden stops and turns, and aggressive pivoting. Kneeling and deep squatting can sometimes lead to meniscus tears. Degenerative changes of the knee occur in older adults, resulting in tearing of the meniscus. As we age, wear and tear on your knee joints increases the risk of a torn meniscus.
The Most Common Signs & Symptoms of Meniscus Tears
- Popping sensation
- Swelling or stiffness
- Pain, specifically with knee twisting
- Difficulty straightening your knee fully
- Locked knee sensation
- Knee instability and weakness
(Source: Mayo Clinic)
What Are the Treatments for Meniscus Tears?
Marcel Jacobs PT provides a hands-on physical therapy approach which means you’re going to get fast access to immediate care in order to soothe and relax those tight and aching muscles, mobilize and loosen those restricted and painful joints, and strengthen your body so that you can go back to doing the things that you love. Your therapist will perform a thorough physical examination and evaluation in order to provide you with a deeper understanding of your impairments, compensations, and dysfunctions. You may find yourself having your concerns eased, questions answered, and physical pain reduced inside of 45 minutes with your physical therapist.
