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When is meniscus tear knee surgery the most suitable choice?

Knee injury caused by meniscus tear, a frequent occurrence, can cause severe pain. Learn about possible treatments and methods to prevent this injury.

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Knee's Meniscus Rupture: A Common, Often Painful Knee Injury - Learn About Treatment Methods and...
Knee's Meniscus Rupture: A Common, Often Painful Knee Injury - Learn About Treatment Methods and Prevention Strategies

When is meniscus tear knee surgery the most suitable choice?

A Guide to Meniscus Tears: Age Matters

Your knee just took a hit, and you're dealing with a meniscus tear. But did you know that your age could change the treatment your doc will dish out? Here's the lowdown on this common knee injury.

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A meniscal tear occurs in the cartilages, or menisci, found between the bones of your leg in your knee area. According to orthopaedic surgeon Richard Parker, MD, the treatment depends on factors such as your age and the overall condition of the meniscus.

The Meniscus Mishap

Just like your shoes need an insole for cushioning, your knee relies on the menisci to absorb shock and provide a smooth surface for seamless movement. Oftentimes, meniscus tears result from sudden twisting movements or degenerative diseases such as osteoarthritis.

As you age (post-30), menisci lose strength, leading to a higher likelihood of tears. Athletes and everyday Joes are both susceptible to this injury.

Meniscus Mishap Symptoms

You might not even know you have a meniscus tear, as it can heal on its own or simply cause no issues. However, if things go awry, you'll know pretty quickly. Symptoms of a problematic meniscus tear can include:

  • A popping sound
  • Knee pain
  • Swelling
  • Stiffness
  • Difficulty moving or fully straightening your knee

Visit a doc to diagnose a meniscus tear properly. Answering a few questions (e.g., where and when it hurts) can help them pinpoint the source of knee pain.

Meniscus Tear Treatment

If you think you've torn your meniscus, start with the RICE protocol as a first-line defense:

  • Rest
  • Ice
  • Compression (wrap it or use a knee brace)
  • Elevation

If these steps don't provide relief, your doctor may suggest either physical therapy or knee arthroscopy, a type of surgery. In the past, surgery was usually the go-to, but today, physical therapy comes first for many.

Physical therapy is an effective option for those over 40 or those with arthritis. In addition, undergoing physical therapy first poses less risk than surgery (e.g., infection or anesthesia complications). If therapy doesn't work, you can still opt for knee arthroscopy later.

Knee arthroscopy is a common, safe procedure used to diagnose and treat knee problems, but its success relies on factors like the tear's location and your age and overall health. Not all tears can be repaired surgically.

Keeping Your Knees in Shape

You can't halt the natural wear on your menisci, but incorporating the right diet and exercise can help keep your joints healthy overall. To reduce the risk of meniscus tears, steer clear of deep knee squats and similar high-stress activities, especially as you age.

Getting older doesn't mean you should stop exercising or forget about maintaining a healthier lifestyle – just take it slow and listen to your body to prevent injuries.

Sources:[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK234451/[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK532916/[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK514415/[4] https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/knee-meniscus-tear[5] https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/knee-arthritis

  1. A balanced lifestyle that includes fitness and exercise can help maintain the health of your knees and prevent chronic diseases such as osteoarthritis, which could potentially lead to meniscus tears.
  2. Poor nutrition is a risk factor for chronic diseases, which can affect mental health and overall well-being, making it crucial to include a variety of nutrient-rich foods in your diet for a holistic approach to health and wellness.
  3. In some cases, meniscus tears can be a consequence of untreated medical conditions like osteoarthritis, which falls under the umbrella of science and medical research.
  4. Advances in scientific and medical understanding have enabled the development of minimally invasive surgical procedures like knee arthroscopy, helping to improve the treatment of meniscus tears and chronic diseases that may impact the knee.
  5. Mental health and fitness play an essential role in overall well-being, and regular exercise, such as aerobics, weight-bearing activities, and strength training, can have a positive impact on both physical health and mental health.

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