For meniscus, ligament, and cartilage injuries, follow the PECH rule:
“P” break: stop playing sports, rest, immobilization.
“E” ice/cooling: immediate application of cold, this is crucial for the healing process: it prevents the expansion of tissue damage; cold also has a pain-relieving effectNotes on implementation: repeat every 2 to 3 hours; do not apply ice directly to the skin; do not use on open wounds.
“C” Compression e.g. elastic pressure bandage (moderate tension).
“H” Elevation above the level of the heart: reduce blood supply to the damaged tissue; better removal of tissue fluidNotes on implementation: In case of extensive swelling, elevate for 1-2 days.
See a doctor!
Conventional non-surgical therapy methods
In primary patellar dislocation (patella jumps out of its guide), reduction (bringing back to a normal position) followed by immobilization in a plaster tutor (sleeve-shaped plaster cast) is performed.
If the meniscus is entrapped for the first time, an attempt can be made to reduce the entrapped part.
Medical aids
In the case of uncomplicated rupture of the lateral ligament (tear of the collateral ligament) without instability, a knee orthosis (varus/valgus adjustment if necessary), which serves to stabilize the knee joint, should be worn for six weeks; forearm crutches if necessary
In patients with a nonobstructive meniscal tear, ie, meniscal tear without blockages, diagnosed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), patients benefited from 8 weeks of physical therapy to the same extent as from partial arthroscopic meniscectomy.