Meniscus and ligament injuries are among the most common injuries that occur in patients who play sports or engage in intense physical activities.
Meniscus injuries can be caused by a twisting or forced flexion of the knee and occur when the meniscus – a C-shaped structure located between the femur and tibia – is torn or damaged.
Ligament injuries, on the other hand, occur when the ligaments that connect the joints are stretched or torn. The main ligaments of the knee are the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), which are located inside the knee joint.
Both injuries can vary in type and severity, depending on the location of the injury, its extent, and the type of tissue involved.
Diverse treatment approaches
The treatment of meniscus and ligament injuries depends on the severity of the injury and the presence of any associated injuries. Typically, if the injury is mild to moderate, treatment may involve rest, ice, compression, and elevation of the knee, along with physical therapy exercises to strengthen the muscles around the knee joint.
However, if the injury is more severe or if associated injuries occur, such as a torn anterior cruciate ligament, surgical intervention may be necessary, the type of which depends on the severity of the injury and the location of the damage.
For example, in meniscus injuries, the surgery may involve repairing the damaged tissue or removing the injured part of the meniscus, while in ligament injuries, the surgery may involve reconstructing the damaged ligament using tissue taken from the patient or a donor.
After surgery, rehabilitation plays a crucial role in restoring the functionality of the knee joint and preventing any complications. This may involve stretching and strengthening exercises, along with physical and pharmacological therapies to relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
When to intervene in case of injuries?
To prevent the injury from worsening and causing long-term complications, it is important to intervene promptly. In case of symptoms such as pain, swelling, or difficulty moving the knee joint, it is advisable to consult a specialist in orthopedics and traumatology, who can assess the severity of the injury and prescribe the most appropriate treatment.
Furthermore, it is important to take precautions to prevent meniscus and ligament injuries, such as using appropriate footwear and protective equipment for the sport practiced, avoiding sudden movements or forced twists of the knee, and strengthening the muscles around the knee joint through targeted physical therapy exercises.
Orthopedic surgery at MiniHospital “Sandro Pertini”
MiniHospital “Sandro Pertini” is a state-of-the-art facility for all orthopedic surgery interventions and, particularly, for all injuries involving the knee joint.
For more information on the orthopedic surgery interventions provided and to learn more about the team at MiniHospital “Sandro Pertini,” please fill out the form and submit your request, and you will receive all the necessary information.
