Meniscus tear and physical therapy

A meniscus tear is one of the most common knee injuries. The menisci are two pieces of cartilage that sit between your femur (thigh bone) and tibia (shin bone) that acts as a shock absorber.

A meniscus tear typically occurs when an individual plants their foot on the ground and pivots the knee joint. Also, the meniscus can degenerate overtime increasing the risk on a tear.

When an individual tears a meniscus, they will typically present with:

-Pain at the knee joint line

-Locking and/or catching sensation

-Leg weakness

-Swelling at the knee joint

Typically an MRI is ordered to diagnosis the meniscus tear, the type of tear and location. From a physical therapy standpoint, the MRI findings are important but what also is just as important are the symptoms, functional limitations the individual is experiencing and how other areas of the body are functioning.

A thorough physical therapy evaluation will assess the lower back, hip, knee, ankle and foot to understand how everything is moving and functioning in regards to the knee joint. If the hip and ankle aren’t moving as well as they should, it can put undue stress on the knee joint impacting the ability of the body to heal the torn meniscus. This is where specific hands on treatment and a progressive exercise/movement approach individualized to you can be extremely beneficial.

Most of the time, conservative treatment (physical therapy) is a great place to start with a meniscus tear to see if the meniscus can be rehabbed and ultimately you can avoid surgery, but there are cases when surgery is warranted depending on an individuals symptoms and physical limitations.

If you are dealing with a torn meniscus or general knee pain, set up a discovery call to see if we are a good fit for you. You will be with a Doctor of Physical Therapy for an entire hour 1-on-1 to provide the best care possible and help you return to a thriving life!