Meniscal Repair

The meniscus is a piece of cartilage that sits within the knee joints providing cushioning and increased congruency within the joints.  The meniscus absorbs considerably increased forces during standing, walking and running respectively.  Injuries to the meniscus typically occur when one twists on a planted foot, or from contact sports.  Depending on the size of the tear and location, the meniscus may be able to heal with the proper exercises.  The outer 10-25% of the meniscus receives a blood supply and is called the red zone. The other 75-90% does not receive a direct blood supply and is called the white zone.   For this reason the red zone has a higher likelihood of healing given the appropriate rest, and specific exercises. If the meniscus does not respond to conservative treatments, a surgeon may elect to fix it surgically.

Following surgery, there is a period of immobility and non weight bearing to allow the meniscus to heal. Once you are released to physical therapy by your surgeon, we will begin range of motion, muscle activation, and hip strengthening exercises while managing scar tissue, swelling and pain.  We will progress weight being as indicated, and be able to transition into knee strengthening exercises.  The latter part of therapy will be working on functional closed-kinetic chain exercises, including balance and activity specific movements.

Associated Symptoms:

  • Knee pain
  • Swelling
  • Difficulty walking
  • Weakness
  • Knee instability

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