The Benefits of Physical Therapy for Meniscus Tears
Meniscal tears are common injuries that affect athletes and non-athletes alike. They affect the cartilage of the knee and can either be acute or degenerative. Acute means the injury happens as a result of a particular movement while a degenerative injury happens over time. Physical therapy is one of the most effective forms of therapy to heal a meniscal tear and restore strength and movement over time.
There are many benefits of physical therapy for meniscus tears. In case your injury requires surgery, the experienced therapists at Custom Rehab Physical Therapy in Chubbuck, ID can help you prepare for the procedure and recover following surgery. Here is why you should rely on the experts at Custom Rehab Physical Therapy in Chubbuck, ID to effectively treat your meniscus tear injury.
What Is A Meniscus Tear?
The meniscus is a cartilage disc that helps cushion the knee. Each knee joint has two menisci – one on the outer or lateral part of the knee and one on the inner or medial part of the knee. The menisci act together to absorb shock and stabilize the knee joint. A meniscus tear is an injury to one of these cartilages. A meniscus tear can be classified in two ways such as acute or degenerative. An acute meniscus tear happens as a result of twisting or turning quickly on a bent knee. A degenerative meniscus tear happens over time due to repetitive stress placed on the knee joint.
Types Of Meniscus Tears
There are six types of meniscus tears including:
Radial Tear – This is the most common type of meniscus tear. It occurs in an area that isn’t supplied with blood and is difficult to heal on its own without surgery.
Horizontal Tear – This is the easiest type of tear to repair in the knee. The surgeon will sew together the circumferential fibers of the meniscus back together.
Incomplete Tear – This type of tear is considered a stable injury where surgery isn’t required.
Complex Tear – This type of tear involves several patterns including radial and horizontal tears.
Flap Tear – This type of tear causes an unusual tear pattern. You may experience a catching sensation in the knee as a result.
Bucket Handle Tear – This tear is similar to a horizontal tear. But it involves a large portion of the meniscus.
Should I Try Physical Therapy Before Surgery?
Yes. Not all meniscus tears require surgery. In fact, physical therapy can be just as effective for meniscus tears. Physical therapy can help improve the knee’s range of motion, decrease pain & swelling, and increase the strength of the muscles that stabilize the knee over time.
How Long Do I Need Physical Therapy After A Meniscus Tear?
It depends on your age, type of tear, and type of surgery – in case you opted for surgery. If you decide to try out physical therapy before surgery, you should try PT for around 4 to 6 weeks, on a regular schedule.
If you are searching for a reputable clinic for physical therapy for meniscus tears in Chubbuck, ID, call Custom Rehab Physical Therapy today to schedule a FREE Consultation with a licensed Physical Therapist!