What is Meniscus?
Menisci are cartilage-like structures located within the knee joint that help absorb impacts between the bones. There are two menisci in the knee: the medial meniscus and the lateral meniscus. These structures provide stability to the knee and protect the joint by distributing the load during movement.
How Do Meniscus Tears Occur?
Causes:
● Trauma: Sudden movements, falls or excessive bending of the knee can cause meniscus tears.
● Overuse: Over time, repetitive movements and excessive loads can weaken the meniscus.
● Aging: The meniscus can wear out and become less flexible over time, increasing the risk of tears.
Meniscus Tears Symptoms
● Pain and tenderness in the knee
● Swelling and inflammation
● Limited movement and a feeling of locking in the knee
● Inability to fully straighten the knee
How Are Meniscus Tears Treated?
Arthroscopic Surgery:
● Diagnosis and Treatment: Arthroscopic surgery is widely used in the treatment of meniscus tears. The torn meniscus area is repaired or removed depending on the severity of the tear by entering the joint through small incisions.
● Advantages: Arthroscopic surgery is a minimally invasive method and allows the patient to recover quickly. In addition, the probability of damaging surrounding tissues is low.
Protective Measures:
● Protect Your Knee: Avoid heavy loads and stay away from sudden movements.
● Exercise: You can increase joint stability by doing exercises that strengthen the knee muscles.
● Using Appropriate Shoes: Wearing appropriate shoes during sports activities can reduce the load on your knee.