What is a Meniscal Tear?
A meniscal tear is a tear in the cartilage within the knee joint which is called the meniscus. This cartilage provides a shock absorbency system to the knee to aid with the prevention of pain and injury. Meniscal tears can be managed through surgery or through a conservative method. The conservative method is the preferred method of treatment as it avoids an invasive approach. The conservative method will include pain management and physiotherapy involvement. The physiotherapists at Physio.co.uk are experienced at treating meniscal tears.
Above: Therapist performing soft tissue massage on the tissues aound the knee
Physiotherapy for Meniscal Tears
Meniscal tears cause pain and alter the mechanics of the joint. With a meniscal tear the muscles around the knee can become weakened increasing the risk of further injury. Physiotherapy treatment can help to:
- Decrease pain
- Increase the function
- Increase the strength
- Restore normal muscle balance
- Prevent injury
- Restore normal function
- Manual therapy
- Strengthening exercises
- Stretching exercises
- Taping techniques
- Electrotherapy
- Ice and heat therapy
- Education and advice
Above: Therapist performing knee assessment
Summary
Meniscal tears can alter the function of the knee causing you pain and discomfort. It has an effect on the surrounding structures which help to stabilise the knee. A conservative management strategy for meniscal tears should include a course of physiotherapy to ensure the knee is rehabilitated fully to help prevent further injury which may lead to a larger tear and a surgical approach. The physiotherapists at Physio.co.uk are expert musculoskeletal therapists who have treated many meniscal tears. Please contact us or call 0330 088 7800 to arrange an appointment.