Decoding Meniscal Tears: Expert Insights On Causes, Symptoms, And Effective Management

Meniscal tears are common sports-related injuries that can impact every individual who is active in sports. However, very few people know about this issue and its proper management. We connected to Dr Ashis Acharya, Senior Consultant Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine Unit, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi for his expert inputs on this injury.

What Are Meniscal Tears?

According to Dr Ashis Acharya, the knee joint, while robust, is susceptible to injury during activities involving twists, turns and sudden movements. Meniscal tears occur when the wedge-shaped cartilage, known as the meniscus, is torn due to forceful twisting. Athletes engaged in sports with frequent squatting and position changes are particularly prone to these injuries. On the other hand, degenerative tears of the meniscus tend to occur in older individuals and are caused by wear over time.

Symptoms Of Meniscal Tears

As per Dr Ashis Acharya, in meniscus tears, you may experience a distinct pop, followed by symptoms which include:

• Pain in the knee joint, exacerbated under pressure.
• Swelling and stiffness.
• Sensation of the knee giving way, locking or catching during bending.

Importance Of Immediate Treatment

Most people tend to push through the pain and delay the treatment for meniscus tears which leads to serious consequences. As per Dr Ashis Acharya, if left untreated, fragments of the torn meniscus can dislodge into the joint, potentially leading to larger knee problems and even arthritis. It's crucial to recognize that not all meniscal tears heal on their own, and the type and location of the tear determine the appropriate course of action.

Treatment Available For Meniscal Tears

Both surgical and non-surgical treatments are available for Meniscal tears. However, there are several factors that you should consider before choosing the treatment plan. These factors include the location and severity of the tear, the degree of pain, your age and activity (shilpa shetty kundra workout routine) level.

If the tear is on the outer one-third of the meniscus, where there is a rich blood supply, it may have the potential to heal and can be managed conservatively. Therefore, it is imperative to get advice from a sports medicine specialist as soon as possible. Early Intervention may be effective and necessary to preserve the meniscus.

However, tears in the inner two-thirds, lacking sufficient blood flow, often require surgical intervention. It is advisable to consult an Orthopaedics surgeon before choosing the surgical option.

As per Dr Ashis Acharya, Non-Surgical Treatments include:

• Physical therapy.
• RICE protocol: Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation.
• Anti-inflammatory medications.
• Cortisone medication injections

How Can You Prevent Meniscus Tears?

Prevention is the key, especially for those actively involved in sports. Proper warm-up routines, targeted exercises (quick weight loss asanas) to strengthen knee muscles, and using appropriate protective gear can significantly reduce the risk of meniscal tears. Being mindful of technique and body mechanics during physical activities is equally important.

The bottom line is that meniscal tears are not exclusive to professional athletes and can affect anyone. Understanding the potential severity of this injury and seeking timely treatment is essential.

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