Does the knee need surgery? | Exercises from physiotherapy for meniscus tears

Does the knee need surgery?

If it is a complete tear of the meniscus, a complicated tear or a tear in a less well supplied zone or if the patient’s medical history requires it, meniscus surgery is inevitable. There are different procedures that are used to treat the tear. In most cases, the operation is performed with a minimally invasive procedure where the surgeon works through small surgical channels.Possible operations are: A meniscus suture, in which the torn meniscus is sutured A meniscus (partial) removal, in which the damaged meniscus is removed completely or partially A meniscus transplant, in which the damaged meniscus is replaced by a synthetic or animal implant In most cases the operation can be performed on an outpatient basis and is a routine operation in many hospitals. It is important in all cases to operate early to prevent possible consequential damage and to improve the chances of recovery.

  1. A meniscus suture, in which the torn meniscus is sutured
  2. A meniscus (partial) removal, in which the damaged meniscus is completely or partially removed
  3. A meniscus transplant in which the damaged meniscus is replaced by a synthetic or animal implant.

Physiotherapy after surgery

The physiotherapeutic treatment after meniscus surgery is designed to restore the patient’s mobility and freedom from symptoms as quickly as possible. Normally, the rehabilitation phase begins on the day of surgery. How quickly and to what extent physiotherapy is possible depends on the chosen surgical procedure.

For example, after a meniscus suture or a meniscus transplant, a longer period of rest is required than for a removal. In general, however, lymph drainage and other decongestant procedures are an important factor at the beginning. Gentle tension exercises are also performed for calf and thigh muscles to stimulate the blood flow again and prevent thrombosis.

In the first days after the operation, gait training with walking aids is the main focus. The mobilization of the kneecap as well as exercises for bending and stretching are also part of the physiotherapy. The scar tissue should also be treated to prevent adhesions and reduced elasticity.

In the further course of the treatment, the patient’s mobility and the resilience of the knee joint should be restored. This is achieved by specific strengthening, stretching and mobilization exercises, which are performed under the supervision of the therapist. How quickly a patient progresses in the rehabilitation process varies from patient to patient and also depends on the severity of the injury and the type of surgical procedure chosen. It usually takes 10-12 weeks until full recovery. The following articles may also be of interest to you in this regard:

  • Lymphatic drainage
  • Manual lymph drainage

Read next article in this series:

All articles in this series:

  1. Exercises from physiotherapy for meniscus tears
  2. Does the knee need surgery?
  3. When can I do sports again?
  4. Which tests can be performed?