HOW DO YOU KNOW IF THE MENISCUS IS DAMAGED?
A meniscus injury can manifest itself in many different ways. During an examination, it can therefore be quite difficult to define the nature of the injury. Mild injuries can sometimes cause severe symptoms and it can just as easily be the other way round.
SOME SYMPTOMS THAT COULD INDICATE A MENISCUS INJURY ARE:
You may have difficulty extending your leg to its fullest extent. This may be because the meniscus is wrapped due to external force, and the damaged meniscus is causing a lock in the knee joint.
Sharp pain when loading the knee at the same time as twisting.
Pain in the knee when squatting.
There may be swelling in the knee.
It feels stiff and tight when you get up from sitting.
Pain is more common on the inside of the knee, as the inner meniscus is most often damaged. Twisting the knee, such as turning around, often triggers a sharp pain that can linger for hours afterwards, in the form of a nagging ache.
Swelling and 'clicking' sounds are very common in people with a damaged meniscus.
HOW IS THE MENISCUS INJURED?
An injury to the meniscus can occur both on the inside and outside of the knee. In younger people, the injury is often caused by some sporting activity, with a sharp twist of the knee being the most common cause. In middle-aged and older people, however, meniscus injuries can occur with relatively little force, such as when getting up from a squatting position.
Possible causes of meniscus injury are:
Forceful twisting
Hyperextension
Deep knee bends (in older people)
There are two menisci in each knee, the outer and inner. These are small, semi-circular pieces of cartilage that narrow towards the centre of the knee joint. The inner meniscus is the most commonly injured because it is less mobile, due to its connection to the adjacent ligament. Because they are connected, it is also common for injuries to both the meniscus and the ligament to occur at the same time.
WHAT TO DO AFTER A MENISCUS INJURY?
In the acute phase: In the acute situation immediately after the injury occurs, it is important to follow the so-called RICE principle.
R (Rest): Stop what you are doing immediately and lie down on your back if possible.
I (Ice): Cool the injured area, possibly with an ice pack. But be careful not to freeze the skin.
C (Compression): Apply a pressure bandage.
E (Elevate): Place the injured body part in an elevated position (above the level of the heart).
It is important to avoid movements and activities that cause pain, as this can make the injury worse.
DURING REHABILITATION
As soon as the acute phase is over, rehabilitation training can be started. Rehabilitation training is gradually increased in intensity. It can be a good use of time to visit a physiotherapist for advice and tips on which exercises are good for you. The therapist can develop a personalised exercise programme tailored to your injury. The exercise programme aims to maintain mobility in the knee and promote blood circulation.
Avoid returning to sports before sufficient mobility strength, balance and coordination have been achieved.
Use knee protection as a complement to rehabilitation.
