Medial Cartilage Meniscus Injury

What is a Cartilage Meniscus?

There are 2 cartilage menisci in each knee joint. These are crescent shaped and sit on the inner and outer edges of the uppermost surface of the shin bone. These menisci perform an essential function in the knee, acting as shock absorbers for the knee as well as allowing for the proper interaction and weight distribution between the tibia and the femur (thigh bone). The importance of the menisci to the knee function mean that damage can cause serious knee instability.

How is the medial meniscus injured?

The medial meniscus is less mobile than the lateral meniscus because it is connected to the joint capsule and to the medial collateral ligament and so is more likely to suffer injury. Forces such as from a rugby tackle can cause great damage to it. Damage to the anterior cruciate ligament may be associated with damage to the medal meniscus. Damage can also be down to other mechanisms of injury such as twisting the knee or degenerative changes that are associated with age. Any of these circumstances may lead to tearing of the medial meniscus, which in serious cases may require surgical intervention.

What are the symptoms of an injury of the medial meniscus?

• A history of trauma or twisting of the knee
• The inner surface of the knee joint may be painful
• Once injured there will be swelling within 2 days
• Pain or clicking in the knee and an inability to fully bend the knee.
• A positive sign (pain and/or clicking noise) during a "McMurrays test"
• The knee may 'lock'
• Inability to weight bear on the affected side

What are the types of meniscal injuries?

• Degenerative Changes: This may lead to edges of the menisci becoming frayed and jagged
• Longitudinal Tears: This is a tear that occurs along the length of the meniscus
• Bucket- Handle Tears: This is an exaggerated form of a longitudinal tear where a portion of the meniscus becomes detached from the tibia forming a flap that looks like a bucket handle
  

Useful Products:

• Cold Therapy - apply ice or cold therapy to the site of injury to ease pain.
• Knee Braces - help to support and protect the knee, reducing the risk of further injury.

Please see the Virtual Sports Injury Clinic for more information on how to treat Medial Cartilage Meniscus Injury and other causes of knee pain.