The role of the menisci in maintaining smooth movement and locomotion
The knee joint is a complex structure. It is made up of two menisci. The role of these two menisci is rather crucial in support and locomotion. The menisci help to evenly distribute the weight of the upper body. Menisci also prevent the bones in the joint from wear and tear. For this reason, meniscus injuries can be detrimental for the well-being and life of the knee joint. Meniscus injuries are of different grades. First and second grade meniscus injuries are usually not much painful. Many people can deal with first and second grade meniscus injuries. However, the ability to deal with discomfort varies from one individual to the other hence different people may report varying amounts of pain when suffering from first or second grade meniscus tear. The third grade meniscus tear can be traumatizing for most people and a surgery might be necessary. A doctor can diagnose a meniscus injury by examining the knee and through MRI and X-ray test.
Is the meniscus damage repairable?
The question as to if meniscus injury is repairable or not, is a major concern for many sufferers. The repairability of the meniscus depends upon a number of factors which include: Age/strength, Activity level, Chronicity of the tear, Tear pattern and Healing potential. Sometimes a meniscus tear occurs when the medial collateral ligament and anterior cruciate ligament are injured badly.
Since mechanical injuries can disturb the anatomy of the meniscus, it is obvious that contact sports provide the greatest risk for meniscus injuries. A sufficiently harsh blow can cause the knee to become wrenched. Meniscus damage is expected in such a case.
Symptoms and signs that help in determining meniscus injury:
The symptoms that point towards meniscus injury may take quite some time to surface. Sometimes the symptoms have been reported to appear in forty-eight hours after injury. Meniscus injury is usually followed by pain and swelling around the affected joint. The joint becomes stiff and locking of the joint with a click sound has been frequently reported. Along with these symptoms, restricted rotation of the leg also prevails.
Why should one look for professional medical help when it comes to meniscus tear?
A doctor can examine a joint with meniscus tear and prescribe medication or Arthroscopy. Once the diagnosis is made, Arthroscopy can help an individual lead a normal life after surgery. The results attained by meniscus surgery depend also upon the degree of tear.
It is recommended to consult a specialist if you are inflicted with the trauma of a meniscus tear. Feel to contact Dr. Kevin for assistance at: (+65) 6471 2698 or Email Us.