Recovery without surgery (conservative)
Even without surgery, for the regeneration of an Unhappy Triad, forearm crutches are first prescribed to relieve the structures when walking. An orthosis is also fitted to support the joints so that the structures have a chance to grow back together. Aftercare and exercises are usually the same as after an operation, because the goals to be regained are the same: here too, the pain is directed towards the pain, which is always a signal for orientation.
If an exercise hurts or makes the pain worse, either the sequence of movements should be optimized or the difficulty and load should be reduced somewhat. Swimming and cycling are general joint-relieving sports, which are suitable for post-treatment as well as for the prevention of an injury.
- Full restoration of function by building up the strength of muscles surrounding the joints
- Stability building
- Coordination training
- Retention of flexibility, extensibility and mobility in the joint
Further measures
To further support the healing of the Unhappy Triad, passive measures and concepts such as manual therapy, massages and fascial techniques for surrounding tissue, electrotherapy to reduce pain, swelling and also stimulation of the musculature and later tape systems to support the return to everyday stress and sports are suitable in therapy.
Summary
The injury of an Unhappy Triad is, as the name suggests, an unfortunate combination injury. Three structures in the knee that provide stability are torn by excessive rotation and external force: the medial meniscus, the medial ligament and the anterior cruciate ligament. Frequently affected are skiers and footballers.
Surgery is usually performed to prevent consequential damage and to restore stability.Healing can be lengthy due to poor blood circulation in the structures, but with good active cooperation and an individually adapted aftercare program based on the phases of classic wound healing, the old functional capability and resilience can be restored. The inner ligament and the inner meniscus at the knee are fused together, which gives greater stability, but also restricts mobility, especially in rotation. If a rotation now occurs, sometimes combined with a kick against the leg from outside, the structures give in to the sudden stress and tear.
The result is an unstable knee, severe pain and swelling as well as restrictions in movement and resilience. In the manual test, the joint space is very sensitive to pressure and can be easily opened.
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