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A meniscus tear is an injury to one of the two crescent-shaped cartilage pieces, known as the menisci, found in the knee joint. These menisci function as shock absorbers, cushioning the space between the femur (thigh bone) and tibia (shin bone), and play a key role in distributing weight and stabilizing the knee during movement.
If untreated or if the tear is not managed properly, a meniscus tear can lead to joint instability, increased wear on the cartilage, and potentially accelerate the development of osteoarthritis in the knee.
Causes of a Meniscus Tear
A meniscus tear can result from:
Acute injury: This typically occurs from a sudden twisting or pivoting motion, especially when the knee is bearing weight. It is common in sports like basketball, football, or soccer.
Degenerative wear and tear: As people get older, the meniscus loses flexibility and becomes more susceptible to tears, even with low-impact activities. This is especially common in older adults.
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Signs and Symptoms of a Meniscus Tear
A meniscus tear can lead to several symptoms, such as:
Pain, particularly around the joint line where the femur and tibia connect.
Swelling or stiffness in the knee.
Difficulty moving the knee fully, with limited flexibility.
A sensation of the knee "locking" or "catching," making it hard to fully bend or straighten the joint.
A feeling of instability, or the knee seeming like it might give way.
Treatment and Management of a Meniscus Tear
Treatment depends on the extent of the tear, as well as the patient's age, activity level, and general health.
Physical therapy: This aims to strengthen the muscles surrounding the knee, improve flexibility, and restore range of motion.
Shockwave Therapy: Since the meniscus has limited blood flow due to its avascular nature, shockwave therapy helps stimulate a healing response by promoting increased blood circulation to the area.
Surgical treatment: In cases of more significant tears, or if the tear is causing persistent symptoms, surgery may be necessary.
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