Meniscus Injury
A meniscus injury occurs when the stress generated by the knee exceeds the meniscus’ ability to resist forces (this is usually a combination of flexion and rotation).
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Additional Information
Home Treatments
- Management will depend on extent of injury. Some may be managed conservatively and some may require a surgical approach. The majority fall somewhere between the two and the decision is made based on the functional demands of the person.
- Swelling management RICE (rest, ice, compression, elevation) in initial stages (48 – 72 hours) as well as range of motion exercises
- Avoidance of heat, running / activity, alcohol and massage during first 48 – 72 hours
Professional Medical Treatment
- Joint traction and mobilisation depending on injury presentation
- Graded exercise program to restore function and strength
- Surgical management if warranted. Surgical management may be necessary if there is a torn flap of meniscus that interferes with the joint mechanics (picture putting a stick in the spoke of a bicycle tyre whilst riding)
Physical Therapy Exercises
- Range exercises to restore knee range of motion
- Strengthening exercises of hip, knee and ankle muscles (including gluteals, hamstrings, quadriceps, calf etc.)
- Proprioception exercises (including landing control, pivoting / directional change control)
Prevention
- Meeting criteria prior to return to sport
- No swelling
- Full knee range
- Normal function of quadriceps, hamstrings, hip rotators
- Adequate joint position awareness of lower limb (during stability tests)
- No pain during full training
- No issues with functional return to sport exercises and tests