Lateral Meniscus Syndrome

The knee joint is formed by the union of two bones, namely the femur (thigh bone) and the tibia (lower leg bone). At the junction of these two bones is a cartilage called the meniscus, which acts as a shock absorber. There are two menisci – the lateral and medial menisci. The lateral meniscus is the outer meniscus of the knee joint and gives a cushioning effect during weight bearing activities. Lateral meniscus syndrome is characterized by an injury caused by the tearing of the cartilage tissue or a rare case of a congenital abnormality called a discoid meniscus, which results in knee pain.

Causes

Lateral meniscus syndrome often occurs due to excessive weight bearing and twisting motions to the knee. This occurs usually due to sports activities such as football, basketball and snow skiing, which require a lot of changes in directions and twisting movements. It can also occur due to the gradual wear and tear of tissues that occurs over time. As you grow older, degenerative changes may occur in the knee joint, causing injury with even small movements. The congenital abnormality, discoid meniscus, is more prone to injuries while performing twisting activities.

Symptoms

The common symptoms of lateral meniscus syndrome may include:

  • Sharp pain associated with weight bearing activities, twisting movements, climbing stairs, kneeling or squatting
  • Audible popping or clicking of the knee on the front or back
  • Swelling
  • Weakness
  • Locking of the knee during certain movements
  • Feeling of giving way of the knee
  • Tenderness
  • Significant restriction of knee range-of-motion in severe cases
  • Inability to straighten the knee completely

Diagnosis

A thorough medical history and physical examination is done by your doctor to diagnose lateral meniscus syndrome. Other imaging techniques, such as X-ray and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), are ordered to confirm the diagnosis. Sometimes, arthroscopy, a procedure where a fiber-optic tube with a light and camera is attached, is inserted into the knee to provide your doctor with a better view of the damage and confirm on the diagnosis of lateral meniscus syndrome.

Treatment

Lateral meniscus syndrome is treated with physiotherapy and surgery.

  • Physiotherapy:helps to optimize the healing process. This treatment includes soft tissue massage, use of crutches, electrotherapy (use of electrical energy for healing), hydrotherapy (use of water for treatment), ice or heat treatment, and progressive exercises to enhance strength, balance and flexibility of the knee joint. Physiotherapy is recommended before surgery.
  • Surgery:Severe meniscal injuries would require surgery, especially when you experience locking of the knee. Surgery for this condition is performed with knee arthroscopy, a minimally invasive surgery that involves the removal or repair of the torn cartilage. The surgery is performed via small incisions through which an arthroscope and other surgical instruments are inserted.

Recovery

If you have a minor lateral meniscus syndrome that is managed conservatively, you can return to sports activities in 2 to 4 weeks. If your condition is treated through surgery, it will take about 4 to 6 weeks for you to fully recover. Your leg will be placed in a soft bandage wrap or brace, and you may be prescribed crutches to help you walk. Surgically treated meniscus syndrome will require 6-8 weeks of physiotherapy.

Patient Reviews

  • blog leftDon't think you'll find a better combination of physician and support staff! They are all very professional! blog right

    Know More

    blog leftDr Benton is professional and caring. He takes plenty of time to listen to your questions and explains things to your understanding . blog right

    Know More
  • blog leftEasy to make appointment and super friendly staff. blog right

    Know More

    blog leftGreat bed side manner and concern for my care. blog right

    Know More
  • blog leftGreat experience and appreciate time spent discussing options. blog right

    Know More

    blog leftGreat experience, great doctors. blog right

    Know More
  • blog left He was caring, answered questions, encouraged me, gave me shots in my knees, and today I already feel relief of the pain. blog right

    Know More

    blog left He was very kind. informative and respectful. You could tell he cared and wanted us to understand everything he discussed with us. blog right

    Know More
  • blog left I have always been happy and satisfied going to this facility blog right

    Know More

    blog left I was impressed with the short wait time and helpfulness of the staff. blog right

    Know More
  • Play
  • Pause