Επιστροφή
Sports InjuriesA meniscus tear is one of the most common injuries that the knee can suffer, particularly in people who are involved in sports. Although it can be caused even by simple everyday movements, a meniscus tear is considered a typical injury in sports such as football, basketball, skiing, and martial arts, where the knee receives high torsional forces.
Everything at OSTEON
The knee joint is formed by the femur, tibia and patella. Between the femur and the tibia, two crescent-shaped fibrochondral structures, the inner and outer meniscus, are interspersed. The meniscus act as natural “shock absorbers”, absorbing shocks, evenly distributing loads and enhancing joint stability. At the same time, they protect the articular cartilage and contribute to the proper lubrication and function of the joint.
A meniscus tear is a basically athletic injury that is characterized by the breakdown of the continuum of the meniscus fibers. This damage can be complete or partial and can occur in various forms, such as radial, oblique, elongated or “bucket handle”. Depending on the form and location of the rupture, the therapeutic approach also differs.
In sports, a meniscus tear is usually the result of a violent rotational movement of the knee, especially when it is flexing. It is often accompanied by other injuries, mainly rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament.
Meniscus rupture in athletes occurs during intense activity that requires abrupt changes of direction, jumps, falls, or direct contact. The injury mechanism usually involves simultaneously flexing and twisting the knee with loading, causing a rupture especially in the inner meniscus.
In contrast, at older ages, tears occur mainly due to tissue degeneration and can be caused even during a simple movement, such as deep sitting or climbing a ladder.
Symptoms vary depending on the type of rupture, but the most characteristic signs include:
In the most severe ruptures, the dissected part of the meniscus is trapped in the joint, causing the knee to become completely immobilized.
The diagnosis begins with a detailed history and clinical examination by an orthopedist. The doctor will assess the sensitivity in the meniscus area and perform special tests, such as McMurray’s, in which the knee is bent and twisted to reproduce the pain or the characteristic “click”.
For confirmation, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the examination of choice, as it accurately depicts the type, size, and location of the rupture, as well as any accompanying damage to cartilage or ligaments.
In general, a meniscus tear is a condition that in most cases, especially in athletes, is usually treated surgically. Conservative treatment is mainly applied to small, stable ruptures and in cases of degenerative lesions without severe symptoms. It includes measures such as rest, limb discharge, use of ice therapy, anti-inflammatory medication and physical therapy to strengthen the muscles around the knee. The goal is to reduce pain and maintain joint functionality. In several cases, especially in non-athletes or in older patients, the conservative approach may be adequate.
For athletes – especially those who participate in high-demand sports or are involved in sports at a professional level – surgical rehabilitation is often the optimal option. The presence of recurring symptoms, the “locking” of the knee, or the presence of ruptures in dynamically charged areas of the meniscus make conservative treatment, inadequate. Arthroscopic surgery, either with suture or partial meniscectomy, aims not only to relieve pain, but also to fully restore the stability and mobility of the knee. This is essential for the athlete’s safe return to training and the playing field, without the risk of additional injuries or long-term joint degeneration.
The need for surgery depends on many factors, including:
Depending on the damage, the following are performed:
Ruptures in the peripheral area of the meniscus (red zone) have better blood supply and can be sutured. The central (white zone) usually does not heal and is treated with partial removal of the damaged part – partial meniscectomy.
Arthroscopic surgery is the modern method of treating meniscus tears. It is a minimally invasive technique in which, through small holes (4-5 mm), special tools and a camera are inserted into the joint. The operation usually lasts 20–30 minutes and the patient is discharged on the same day.
The duration of rehabilitation depends on the type of operation. After partial meniscectomy, recovery is rapid and most patients return to light exercise within 2–4 weeks. On the contrary, after a meniscus suture, a longer period of discharge and protection (up to 6 weeks) is required, with a gradual return to sports activities after 3–6 months.
Physiotherapy is necessary in any case and includes:
The decision to return to racing is made based on the functional condition of the knee, not just on chronological criteria.
Neglecting a meniscus tear can lead to more serious consequences, such as:
Early diagnosis and treatment prevents chronic wear and tear and increases the chances of complete recovery.
In general, a meniscus tear is a fairly common injury especially in athletes. The correct assessment, the personalized therapeutic approach and the adherence to the rehabilitation program are the central pillars for the successful return to sports and in general to an active and full everyday life.
If you are experiencing any pain or discomfort, please do not hesitate to contact us.