Symptoms of a meniscus lesion | Physiotherapy for a meniscus lesion

Symptoms of a meniscus lesion

Symptoms of a meniscus lesion are usually more or less pronounced pain. The pain varies depending on the type and cause of the tear. In the case of damage caused by degenerative changes, the lesion often remains undetected due to the less severe pain symptoms, whereas after trauma the pain is usually much stronger and more piercing.

The location of the pain is also determined by the type of tear. For example, an acute meniscus tear causes pain in the knee joint gap and often also on the inside of the knee. Further symptoms of a meniscus lesion are restricted movement, blockages and pressure sensitivity in the area of the affected meniscus. The pain may also radiate to other parts of the leg, so that the affected person sometimes complains of pain in the shin or thigh.

Surgery for a meniscus lesion

If the meniscus lesion is a complete tear of the meniscus, the injury is caused by trauma, other structures are affected, the individual medical history requires it, or other health factors play a role, surgery of the damaged meniscus may be necessary. There are different procedures that are applied. In most cases, the operation is performed arthroscopically (i.e. minimally invasive), whereby the surgeon works through small operation channels.

The three main procedures that are used are A meniscus suture, in which the torn meniscus is sutured. A meniscus (partial) removal, in which the damaged meniscus is completely or partially removed. A meniscus transplant, in which the damaged meniscus is replaced by a synthetic or animal implant.

An in-patient stay is usually not necessary after the operation, it is performed on an out-patient basis, so that the patient can go home afterwards. It is important that physiotherapy can be started shortly after the operation to ensure the best possible healing process.

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.