Can Therapy Heal a Torn Meniscus?
Can Therapy Heal a Torn Meniscus?
The Big Picture
Meniscus tears can be painful and limit mobility, but therapy might offer relief without surgery. Learn how therapeutic exercises can aid recovery.
Contents
- Understanding Meniscus Tears
- Therapeutic Exercises
- When to Consider Surgery
Understanding Meniscus Tears
Your knee's meniscus is a cushion between bones, vital for smooth movement. Tears can happen through sports or simple activities, causing pain and swelling. Therapy often focuses on reducing these symptoms and improving knee function.
Therapeutic Exercises
Exercises aim to strengthen muscles around the knee, providing stability and reducing pain. Activities like cycling, swimming, and specific leg lifts can be part of a therapy plan. These exercises help restore mobility and prevent future injuries.
When to Consider Surgery
Therapy works for many, but some severe tears may need surgery. If therapy doesn’t relieve symptoms or if the knee remains unstable, surgery might be necessary. Consulting a specialist can help decide the best course of action.
FAQs
What is a meniscus tear?
It's a tear in the knee's cushioning cartilage, often from twisting.
Can therapy fix a meniscus tear?
Yes, therapy can help restore knee function and reduce pain.
When should surgery be considered?
Surgery is considered if therapy fails or the tear is severe.
The Bottom Line
Could therapy be the key to recovering from a meniscus tear without surgery?
Additional References
- Jackson JL, O'Malley PG, Kroenke K. Evaluation of acute knee pain in primary care. Ann Intern Med 2003; 139:575.
- Frobell R, Cooper R, Morris H, Arendt E. Acute knee injuries. In: Clinical Sports Medicine, 4th ed, Brukner P, Khan K (Eds), McGraw-Hill, 2012. p.634.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.