What is the meniscus? Menisci are horseshoe-shaped and flexible structures that are placed in the knee joint like a rubber gasket between the femur and lower leg bones, and provide smooth and smooth movement of the knee joint, and on the other hand, strengthen this joint and provide a proportional distribution of force. They perform in the knee joint. Each knee has two meniscus, one on the outside of the knee and one on the inside of the knee.
What causes a meniscus tear?Sudden rotation or twisting movements of the knee when the knee is bent, for example during exercise or lifting heavy objects, can lead to meniscus tear.
Meniscus tear symptoms: Depending on the severity of the meniscus injury, the patient may experience different symptoms. In cases of mild injury, only pain and swelling of the knee may occur, and after two to three weeks, the symptoms will disappear. In cases of moderate damage, in addition to pain and swelling, the patient may experience a decrease in the ability to bend and straighten the knee, although the patient will still be able to walk. At this stage, the symptoms may disappear after a few weeks, but as soon as the knee is exposed to pressure, the symptoms will return and these symptoms will continue until the patient goes through the treatment steps correctly. In severe cases, it is possible. A piece of the torn meniscus enters the joint space and the so-called locking of the knee occurs. A state in which the patient will not be able to bend and straighten the knee and walk.
Diagnosis: Based on physical examination, disease history and if necessary, MRI is performed. Plain radiography has no role in the diagnosis of meniscus tear.
treatment:Depending on the severity of the injury, various treatments may be considered, such as: ice compress, rest and avoiding movements that put pressure on the meniscus, such as sitting and standing, anti-inflammatory drugs, knee braces, physiotherapy, laser therapy, using Ozone gas and in extreme cases surgery to repair or remove a part of the meniscus.