Tears on the outer one-third of your meniscus generally heal quite well because this area has a rich blood supply, and blood cells can regenerate the meniscus tissue. However, if the tear is located on the inner two-thirds, the tear will generally not repair. But this isn’t always bad news. Research shows us that conservative treatment is just as effective as surgery at 6 month, 1, 2 and 5 year month follow ups.
So what does that mean? Well, there’s a very good chance you can avoid surgery all together! Now thats not always the case, and a thorough assessment needs to be completed and potentially some imaging for complicated tears, but in most cases, surgery is not necessary for meniscus tears!
Treatment Options for Simple Meniscus Tears
If your Therapist’s exam shows your meniscus tear is mild, you may not need surgery and immediate Physiotherapy treatment will be recommended.
Most patients recovery really well in this category and there will be minimal issues long term. An average recovery is approximately 3 months.
Meniscus Tear Surgery
If your Therapist finds that you have a complicated tear that is impacting the function of your knee, you will probably need surgery. The goal of surgery is to remove or repair the meniscus. By doing this, you should have more stability in the knee. Your Therapist will make sure that you are healthy enough for surgery, and a good amount of pre surgery physiotherapy is always recommended as we know the post surgical outcomes are always greater when patients undertake physiotherapy prior to surgery.
Meniscus Tear Surgery: Recovery and Outlook
You will likely be able to go home the same day of surgery after you have recovered from the anesthesia. Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics to reduce the chance of getting an infection. They may also recommend compression stockings to help prevent blood clots. Referral to a Physiotherapist for an ongoing treatment plan will be advised.
HOW CAN PHYSIO HELP?
Treatment before/after Meniscus Surgery is something we treat everyday at Ferry Rd Physio and we often use the following:
– manual therapy, joint mobilisations, soft tissue massage, dry needling and acupuncture for symptom relief
– education on the cause of your symptoms as well as a treatment plan and
– exercise prescription to help with mobility, strength and neural tension
– strength and conditioning to help for the long term, not a short term ‘band-aid’ approach
If you think you might have a meniscus tear, it’s a good idea to see a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.
Contact us or book online today to get your knee pain back under control!
J. Press
Physiotherapist