M

Meniscus

The menisci are fibrocartilage discs between the two main bones of the leg (upper femur ; lower tibia). They act as cushions and load-transmitting bearings. The mensici are commony injured. The usual cause is a twist on a weight-bearing leg. It can also just become degenerative over time. Episodic pain is often focal along the joint line and associated with any pivoting movement or squatting. Swelling is usually minimal. If pain persists, it often leads to weakness of the quads, the main front thigh muscle, which in turn may lead to other problems over time. The key to conservative treatment is preservation of range of motion and strength of the knee. If the tear is along the rim of the meniscus, there is a chance it may heal back down on its own, without surgery. If not, consulting a surgeon may be necessary to determine if an arthroscope is needed to stitch the tear or remove the torn segment of meniscus. Intensive Physical Therapy is usually needed post-operatively.