Meniscus and Articular Cartilage Lesions

There are two menisci in each knee and each play an important role in absorbing force and nourishing the knee. An injury to the meniscus can alter the biomechanics of the knee and result in pain. Meniscus injuries can occur from both traumatic and non-traumatic mechanisms.

In addition to the meniscus, articular cartilage is also responsible for cushioning the knee. Tears or injuries to the cartilage can occur from both traumatic and non-traumatic causes.

Both injuries to the meniscus and articular cartilage can result in pain, swelling, loss of knee range of motion and loss of strength leading to limitations performing every day and recreational activities.

Physical therapy treatment includes:

• Manual therapy and exercises to improve knee range of motion
• Exercises to increase knee strength knee and hip muscles
• Neuromuscular re-education to improve knee control/coordination and neighboring joints (such as the hip)
• Progressive weight bearing exercises
• Graded return to activity (such as running)
• Dry needling to decrease muscle tension
• Modalities to reduce pain

While we strive to improve everyone’s strength, range of motion and walking quality to peak levels, specific considerations will be made based on unique individual circumstances. We will ask about your individual goals and do everything in our power to get you back to the activities you wish to do.

References:

1. Logerstedt, David S. et al. “Knee Pain and Mobility Impairments: Meniscal and Articular Cartilage Lesions Revision 2018.” Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy, Vol. 48, No. 2, 2018, pp. A1-A50. Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy (JOSPT), https://doi.org/10.2519/jospt.2018.0301.

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