What is a Meniscus?

The meniscus is a piece of cartilage that sits between the femur and tibia, the two bones that make up your knee joint. The meniscus acts as a shock absorber for your knee. It is made up of two portions, one portion sits towards the inner side of your knee called the medial meniscus and another portion sits towards the outer side of your knee called the lateral meniscus. 

How do people tear their meniscus?

The meniscus is most commonly torn during a twisting movement, such as changing directions quickly. The meniscus can also be torn during a direct fall on the knee.

What are common symptoms of a torn meniscus?

  • Pain along the knee joint line
  • Swelling at the knee
  • A catching or locking feeling at the knee
  • Difficulty or inability to fully extend or bend the knee
  • Limping 

How can physical therapy help?

While the choice to pursue a surgical treatment as well as the type of surgical approach for a meniscus tear will vary, physical therapy treatment can be very effective in all cases in order for patients to return to the activities they enjoy doing with less pain. Physical therapy can assist in the strengthening of the involved knee as well as work to improve the range of motion in the joint. Physical therapy can also assist in preventing future knee injuries.

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