Get to know Meniscus, Knee Cartilage that is Vulnerable to Injury

Meniscus is cartilage found in the knee. This cartilage itself functions as a cushion and helps stabilize the knee joint. Meniscus can be injured or torn during heavy activities such as sports. Check out the various conditions that can cause meniscus tears and how to overcome them below. The meniscus is a crescent-shaped cushion or small C that is attached between the femur and shin. In addition to maintaining body balance, the presence of the meniscus makes both the femur and shin not rub against each other when there is movement in the knee joint. The meniscus also helps distribute nutrients into the tissues and cartilage around the femur and shin.

Causes of Tear Meniscus

Injured or torn meniscus is called meniscus tear. Among sports lovers, meniscus injuries are often referred to as knee injuries. Meniscus tears occur due to movements that force the knee to rotate when the feet are firmly grounded, for example sudden circular movements when playing football, futsal, badminton, tennis, or playing basketball. Meniscus tears are more common in people over 30 years who are active in physical activity. Meniscus tears can also occur together with other knee injuries such as an ACL ligament (anterior cruciate ligament) injury. As we get older, meniscus function can weaken and make it easier for someone to experience meniscus tears, even because of simple movements such as squatting or stepping on an uneven surface. Osteoarthritis sufferers are also prone to torn meniscus. In the elderly, tears or sores on the meniscus tend to occur due to the aging process.

Signs and Symptoms of Meniscus Tear

As with other knee injuries, a torn meniscus can cause you to experience the following symptoms:

• A click when an injury occurs.
• Pain or pain in the knee.
• Knee feels stiff and swollen.
• The knee feels as if it is locked (unable to move or straighten the knee).

Diagnosis and Management of Meniscus Tears

To make sure you have a meniscus tear, you need to see a doctor. Examinations to be carried out include physical examination and several scans, such as X-rays, MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), ultrasound, and arthroscopy. There are several methods to deal with meniscus tears, namely conservative methods, medical treatment, to surgical procedures. Handling depends on the size and location of the tear. Other factors that influence treatment include age, activity level, and related injuries. The outside of the meniscus has a blood supply, and sometimes it can heal itself if the tears are small. Meanwhile, two-thirds of the meniscus does not have a good blood supply. Tear in this area can not heal itself due to lack of blood vessels that carry nutrients for healing. For mild meniscus tears, the treatment can be with the R.I.C.E method: Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation.

• Rest or rest

Rest your knees and limit your activities. Use crutches when walking to reduce pain.

• Ice or ice

Compress ice on the injured area for 15-20 minutes every 3-4 hours, for 2-3 days or until the pain and swelling disappear.

• Compression or compress

Compressing is useful to prevent the swelling from getting worse, it is recommended to use a flexible compress bandage.

• Elevation or force

Lifting the legs is done to reduce swelling. You can sit back or lie down, and raise your legs higher by cushioning under your heels.

In addition to the above methods, the use of drugs such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) will help relieve pain and swelling. Because this drug has side effects, it is recommended that you use this medicine as directed by your doctor and prescribed The doctor will usually recommend physiotherapy and types of stretching exercises to strengthen the knee joints and support recovery. If the treatment does not correct the meniscus tear and even worsens, the doctor may recommend surgery, such as knee arthroscopy, to improve joints, manage pain, and increase knee mobility or movement.

Recovery Period of Meniscus Tear

The recovery period of a meniscus tear depends on a number of factors, including how severe the tear is. Generally, recovery from surgery takes 4 to 6 weeks, depending on the type of procedure performed and your health condition. After surgery, it takes approximately 2 weeks to rest and undergo a physiotherapy session. During this period, patients need to follow the doctor's advice and instructions in undergoing recovery in order to return to normal activities. Although small in size, the meniscus is an important part of the body to support your activities, especially walking. Precautions need to be taken to reduce the risk of injury, such as warming up before exercising, resting your body between exercises or exercising, making sure the size and shape of your shoes are comfortable to wear, and maintaining a healthy diet to nourish joints.