whatsap

Meniscus Tear Treatment

A meniscus tear is the tearing of the menisci, which are cartilage-like structures located in the knee joint, caused by sudden movements, trauma, or degenerative processes that develop over time. It is commonly seen in athletes but also prevalent in older adults. This condition, which limits mobility, manifests with symptoms such as pain, swelling, and locking of the knee.

Healme Clinic provides advanced imaging techniques, experienced orthopedic specialists, and personalized treatment plans for meniscus tear treatment. The clinical approach aims to preserve patients’ knee function and improve their quality of life.

What is the Meniscus?

The Function of the Meniscus

The menisci are crescent-shaped cartilage-like structures located between the thighbone (femur) and shinbone (tibia) in the knee joint. Each knee has two menisci: the medial (inner) and lateral (outer) meniscus. Their functions include

  • Evenly distributing the load on the knee joint
  • Increasing joint stability
  • Protecting the joint surfaces and preventing wear
  • Absorbing shock during movement

What is a Meniscus Tear?

A meniscus tear is a partial or complete tear in these structures. The size, type, and location of the tear directly affect the treatment plan.

Causes of Meniscus Tears

Sudden Twisting and Strains

The meniscus can tear when the knee suddenly twists during sports or the leg twists forcefully while bearing weight. This is especially common in contact sports like football and basketball.

Aging and Degeneration

With aging, the meniscus loses its elasticity, and even minor trauma can cause tears. It is common in individuals over 40 years of age.

Excessive Load

People working in professions that put continuous and excessive load on the knee (such as those working in a squatting position or lifting heavy loads) may develop tears over time.

Symptoms

The symptoms of a meniscus tear can vary depending on the shape and size of the tear. The most common symptoms are

  • Sudden or persistent knee pain
  • Swelling and tenderness in the joint
  • Feeling of locking or catching in the knee
  • Clicking sound during movement
  • Loss of flexibility in the knee
  • Inability to walk or squat for a long time

Diagnostic Methods

At Healme Clinic, the diagnosis of a meniscus tear is made by orthopedic specialists using modern imaging devices and clinical experience.

Physical Examination

The patient’s history is taken, and the knee’s range of motion, tender points, and meniscus tests (such as McMurray, Apley tests) are evaluated.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

Provides detailed imaging of the meniscus structure. The type and location of the tear can be clearly identified.

X-Ray

Can detect bone abnormalities or arthritis if present. However, it has limitations in imaging soft tissues.

Treatment Methods

At Healme Clinic, a personalized approach is adopted in treating meniscus tears, considering the type of tear, patient’s age, lifestyle, and activity level.

Conservative (Non-Surgical) Treatment

Some small and stable tears may heal without surgery.

  • Rest and avoidance of weight-bearing
  • Cold application and anti-inflammatory medications
  • Use of knee braces or bandages
  • Strengthening muscles through physiotherapy
  • Activity modification

This method is generally suitable for older patients and those not involved in sports activities.

Surgical Treatment

Surgery is required for large, displaced, or persistent tears. At Healme Clinic, minimally invasive procedures (arthroscopic surgery) can be performed:

  • Meniscus repair: The torn edges are sutured to promote healing.
  • Meniscectomy: Removal of the damaged part in tears that cannot be repaired.
  • Stem cell therapy or meniscus transplantation: Especially applied in young and active patients to preserve long-term function.

Surgical procedures are performed with modern equipment and minimally invasive techniques.

Rehabilitation Process

The permanence of recovery after meniscus treatment is possible with a proper rehabilitation process. Healme Clinic’s physiotherapy unit prepares customized programs for patients.

Stages of Rehabilitation

  • Rest and edema control during the first weeks
  • Increasing joint range of motion with passive movements starting from the second week
  • Strengthening exercises starting from the third week
  • Balance and proprioceptive training in the following stages
  • Planning return to sports or daily activities

The rehabilitation duration varies depending on the tear type and the applied treatment.

Prevention of Meniscus Tears

  • Performing warm-up exercises before physical activity
  • Strengthening the knee muscles
  • Paying attention to the surface and shoe selection
  • Avoiding excessive and strenuous movements
  • Maintaining healthy body weight

Healme Clinic offers awareness programs for athletes and individuals at risk to prevent meniscus tears.

Returning to Healthy Knees with Healme Clinic

Meniscus tears can be made non-permanent with correct diagnosis and timely treatment. Healme Clinic stands by its patients at every stage of this process with its expert orthopedic team, high-tech diagnostic devices, and personalized treatment approaches.

If you are experiencing knee pain or suspect a meniscus tear, do not delay. Contact Healme Clinic for expert evaluation and an effective treatment plan to step back into a healthy life.