Acute meniscus problems are common in sports that involve a lot of jumping and twisting movements. With meniscus complaints, you often see symptoms such as swelling, instability and lock pain. A physical therapist can easily diagnose meniscus problems and guide you in your recovery.
Cause:
The meniscus consists of two crescent-shaped cartilage pieces. These provide stability and shock absorption to the knee. In addition to absorbing shock to the leg, the meniscus has a guiding function in the movement of the knee. Acute meniscus problems usually occur in sports in which jumps and twisting movements are more common such as field hockey or soccer. This often involves a movement in which the knee is subjected to high force while stretched and rotated. Which of the menisci is damaged is mainly determined by the direction of rotation (inward or outward).
Degeneration of the meniscus?
During your years of life, the meniscus deteriorates in quality. This does not necessarily mean that this causes complaints. In principle, the quality of the meniscus deteriorates in everyone, so this is perfectly normal. In order to keep the quality of your meniscus as good as possible, it is important to take proper and dosed exercise. move. Should you be experiencing meniscus symptoms that come from normal aging? Don't worry, the physical therapists at Fysiofitaal can help you with advice and the guidance you need.
Symptoms:
Symptoms that may occur with meniscus complaints are swelling, decreased stability, pain during full flexion and/or extension of the knee. In addition, locking complaints are characteristic of problems of the meniscus.
Diagnosis:
The physical therapists at Fysiofitaal are well capable of diagnosing meniscus injury. They do this by going through a number of steps. By means of an interview (anamnesis) the physiotherapist obtains all relevant information that will indicate that the meniscus might be responsible for the complaints. To confirm this, the physical therapist can perform several tests. Should it become clear that the complaints are caused by the meniscus, a personal treatment plan can be drawn up for you. Should it not become clear whether or not the meniscus is involved in the complaints, an MRI can clarify this. However, this is not advised in the first 4 months of a rehabilitation trajectory.
Treatments:
If the physical therapist thinks of a damaged meniscus, fortunately it can recover well on its own. However, for a good recovery, it is important to use proper and dosed move. The physiotherapists at Fysiofitaal can guide you through this with advice and a personal training schedule.
