The knee is a complex and vital joint in the body. It’s responsible for supporting, allowing movement and facilitating flexibility. The menisci are two C-shaped cartilage pieces that serve as shock absorbers in the area between the thighbones and the shinbones. This cartilage can be torn and causes for meniscus repair pain, instabilities, and mobility problems. meniscus repairs are often required.
What is Meniscus repair?
Understanding of causes for meniscus repair
Meniscus Repair is an operation that aims to repair a meniscus tear. Meniscectomy or suturing can be done depending on the location, severity, and size of the tear. This procedure is typically performed by arthroscopic. It is minimally invasive, and allows faster recovery.
Meniscus Repair: causes of meniscus repair
Meniscus tears can be caused by a variety of factors, from trauma to wear and tear. We’ll explore the top reasons why people undergo meniscus surgery.
Sports Injuries
Sports-related injuries are the leading cause of meniscus repairs. Sports that require twisting or pivoting, squatting or sudden stops and changes, such as football, basketball, soccer, and ski, can put a lot of stress on the knee joint. The causes for meniscus repair can be easily torn when the knee is twisted while the foot is planted.
Meniscus injuries are common in sports.
- The following are some examples of the use of football
- The following are some of the most common questions that people ask themselves.
- Tennis
- Basketball
- Gymnastics
Meniscus tears are more common among younger, more active individuals. They often occur together with ACL injuries.
Degenerative changes due to ageing
The cartilage of our joints, including the meniscus, begins to wear out as we age. Degenerative meniscus tears occur in many people over the age of 40, and they are often linked to osteoarthritis. These tears are not necessarily caused by an injury, but may be the result of gradual weakening.
Meniscus tears can occur even with minor movements such as standing up from a seated or stair climbing. In these cases, repair of the meniscus may be considered when conservative treatments like physical therapy or medications do not provide relief.
Overuse and Repetitive Stress
Overuse injuries are more common in athletes and workers who continually strain their knees. Overuse injuries can be caused by activities such as frequent kneeling, heavy lifting or climbing. This can lead to a meniscus tear that requires surgical repair.
Those who work in manual labor, construction, plumbing, agriculture or other jobs that involve physical activity are often exposed to these risks.
Trauma and Accidents
A meniscus tear can be causes for meniscus repair by direct trauma to the knee. This could include a accident, a fall or a sudden blow. A meniscus tear can also cause damage to other structures in the knee joint.
If you experience symptoms such as swelling immediately, popping noises, or an inability to move your knee, it could be a serious injury that requires surgical repair.
Previous Knee Injuries or Instability
Meniscus damage is more common in individuals with a history of knee ligament injury. This includes torn anterior cruciate ligaments (ACLs). A weak or instabile knee can lead to abnormal stress on the Meniscus. This may cause further injury.
In these cases, repair of the meniscus is usually performed in conjunction with ligament reconstruction . This restores full knee function.
Congenital Abnormalities
Some individuals are born with a diskoid meniscus. This is an abnormally-shaped meniscus which is more susceptible to tears. Many people with a discoid tendon are asymptomatic. However, some may experience pain in their knees or hear clicking noises.
Meniscus Tear Symptoms
It’s important that you recognize the symptoms of a torn meniscus before we proceed with treatment:
- Pain in the knee that is sharp or dull
- Swelling or stiffness
- Clicking or popping sensation
- Limitation of range of motion
- Knee locking or giving away
- Difficulty kneeling or squatting
Consult an orthopedic specialist if these symptoms worsen or persist. They can provide a diagnosis as well as a possible treatment plan.
Diagnosis – How Can a Meniscus Tear Be Confirmed?
To diagnose a torn lateral meniscus, doctors use a combination physical exam and imaging tests. Techniques may include:
- McMurray test a physical test to detect pain or clicking
- MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imagery) for soft tissue visualization
- X rays
- Arthroscopy
Treatment Options – When is Meniscus repair needed?
Not all meniscus tears need surgery. The decision is based on:
- Location (tears located in the outer “red zones” are more likely heal).
- Type and size of tears
- Age of the patient and their level of activity
- Presence other knee injuries
Alternative Treatments:
- Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation (RICE)
- Non-steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs).
- Physical Therapy
- Cortisone injections
If non-surgical treatment fails, or the tear is large, and causing mechanical symptoms , meniscus repair surgery might be the best option for restoring full function and preventing long-term degeneration of the knee.
Recovery after Meniscus Repair
Following surgery, the recovery process typically involves:
- Crutches are used for 2 to 6 weeks
- Knee brace protection
- Gradual physical therapy to increase strength and flexibility
- Return to sport: 4-6 Months
Meniscus repair has a high success rate, particularly in patients younger and with acute injuries.
Conclusion
Understanding the causes for meniscus repair will help you prevent serious knee injuries. It will also allow you to maintain your mobility. A torn or damaged meniscus is never to be overlooked, whether it’s due to trauma, sports, ageing, or aging. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent chronic pain and degeneration.
Consult an orthopedic specialist if you experience symptoms such as knee pain, swelling or instability. Early intervention can preserve the function of your knee and prevent more invasive procedures in the future.
