Lateral Miniscus Injury Advice

One of the most common injuries to the knee happens to the medial or lateral meniscus. They are also known as torn cartilage. Lateral meniscus injuries cause pain in the knee, and there is often swelling. It can also cause the knee to lock or give way. There are some things that can be done to help the healing process once an injury has taken place.

Lateral Meniscus

• The meniscus has a circular shape and acts as a shock absorber. The lateral meniscus is located on the outer side of the knee. It is connected to bone by ligaments. According to Dr. Bradley S. Baker from the Department of Orthopedic Surgery of the University of South Dakota, meniscal tears that are acute occur in 61 cases out of every 100,000. Generally, meniscal tears do not heal on their own. If treatment does not bring about relief and a return to a normal lifestyle, surgery is considered.

Lateral Meniscus Injury

• A lateral meniscus injury is usually caused by a combination of twisting the knee while putting weight on the knee. There may be a sensation of the knee catching. This happens when a torn fragment gets lodged between the bones and then works out from between them. The knee locks when the fragment does not work itself out from in between the bones. The knee cannot completely bend or straighten when this happens. This can last anywhere from a few seconds to weeks. When the torn tissues of the meniscus slip out their place, the thigh muscles relax causing the knee to give way.

What to Do

• Baker recommends that an individual apply an ice pack or a cold wrap to the injured knee. This helps to reduce swelling and bruising. Avoid activities that involve twisting while bearing loads, which could cause more injury. Refrain from any heavy lifting. Elevate the leg and rest it often. Seek a medical professional’s advice for exercises that help promote healing of the lateral meniscus injury. Medication is often a part of initial therapy for torn cartilage. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories reduce pain and inflammation in the early stages of trying to manage a meniscal tear.

Prevention of Recurrence

• Once the lateral meniscus injury has healed, work to maintain strength and flexibility in the knee. Always stretch before and after physical activity and exercise. Work to avoid extended periods of kneeling, as this puts a significant amount of pressure on the knee. Maintain a healthy body weight, as extra weight adds to the load the knees are carrying.