Meniscus tears are a common injury that, in some cases, can be prevented and managed with the right set of exercises. In some cases, however, exercise alone is not enough. Have your physician evaluate your injury to determine the best course of treatment. Meniscus tears that are not treated properly can become a chronic condition.
Meniscus Tear
The meniscus is a C-shaped piece of cartilage located in your knee that is designed to absorb shock, keep the joint lubricated and it restricts movement of the knee to protect it against injury. Forcefully twisting or over extending the knee are the most common movements that cause the meniscus to tear, says MedlinePlus. Your physician will need to perform a physical exam as well as order X-rays and/or an MRI to determine the extent of your injury and what treatment approach is best.
Treatment
Initially after your injury your doctor may recommend rest, ice and medication to manage symptoms and allow the knee to heal. If your tear is severe enough you may need to brace the knee or use crutches and avoid placing weight on the injured leg, reports MayoClinic.com. Once the swelling and pain has decreased you may need a period of physical therapy so you can learn which exercises to do to help strengthen and stabilize the knee. The goal of physical therapy and exercise is to prevent future injuries. If your meniscus tear does not respond to conservative treatment, then you may require surgery.
Prevention
Athletes who participate in high impact or contact sports and older individuals whose meniscus has started to degenerate are at a higher risk of meniscus tears. Sports that require repetitive stopping, starting and turning such as soccer and basketball, increase the likelihood of a tear. If you are at a higher risk, performing exercise to keep your knee strong and flexible may help you prevent an injury. In addition, after a tear the right exercise and treatment program will allow you to return to your pre-injury level of activity, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.
Benefits of Exercise
When the muscles that surround your knee are strong and flexible, there is less pressure and work load placed on the knee joint which can protect it from injury, suggests the Harvard Medical School. Strong muscles can help to hold your knee in the right position as you move and prevent it from over extending. Flexible muscles allow the knee joint to move through its full range of motion without pulling on the joint. Your doctor, physical therapist or coach can recommend which exercises are best based on the type of sport you play, your daily routine and the severity of your injury.
