The knee joint has two structures called meniscus injuries. One is located on the inner side of the knee joint and the other is located on the outer side of the knee joint. These structures provide stability for the knee and prevent injury to the cartilage.
How Are The Menisci Injured?
Menisci are most commonly injured when the knee joint is bent and the meniscus is caught between the two bones. Horizontal tears are most common. If the tear is large, a piece of the meniscus injuries may move into the joint and cause the knee to lock. This locking may be temporary.
Meniscus Injuries are classified as horizontal tears, radial tears, oblique flap tears, vertical tears, and combined tears.
What Is The Clinical ReflectionOf Newly Occurred Meniscus Injury?
Generally, in young adults, after a twisting injury, there is an onset of sudden severe pain, inability to put weight on the knee, and inability to fully extend the knee if there is a bucket handle tear. If there is an accompanying cruciate ligament injury, there is an increase in fluid in the joint along with bleeding. Pain in the joint, tenderness over the knee, swelling, and restriction of knee range of motion are observed.
What Is The Clinical Reflection In Long Term Meniscal Tears?
In long-term tears, pain and a catching sensation are described in the knee joint. There is generally sensitivity in the joint. When the torn piece moves into the joint, the knee cannot fully extend and locks. If there is a clicking sound coming from the knee when it is opened, a meniscus tear should be considered.
Which Methods Are Useful In The Diagnosis Of Meniscus Tear?
In diagnosis, the history and examination are important. Magnetic resonance imaging or arthroscopy can be performed to confirm the diagnosis.
How Is Magnetic Resonance Imaging Grading Used In The Grading Of Meniscal Injuries?
The tear is graded according to the signal from the meniscus. Three degrees are defined. Second-degree changes are degenerative changes that occur due to the normal aging process in elderly patients. Third-degree changes indicate a meniscus tear.
When Is Conservative Treatment More Appropriate?
- If the complaints developed one to two days after the injury,
- If the patient can put weight on the knee,
- If the swelling is very low,
- If the joint range of motion is complete and the pain is only at the end of the movement,
- If the pain in the knee tests is only at the end point when closing the knee
Which Conservative Treatments Can Be Applied?
- Physical therapy
- Rest
- Ice therapy
- Pain medication
- Activity-based supports
- Joint injections
