Sports injuries: torn meniscus

Meniscus ruptures are one of the most common injuries of the knee joint. Meniscus is a disc that creates a soft layer between the knee bones. In the knee joint there are only two meniscus. One is located in the inner cavity, the second - in the outer cavity. These discs support the stability of the joint and distribute the weight of the body to it. If the meniscus is damaged, then, of course, this will entail a disruption in the functioning of the knee joint.

Meniscus ruptures are due to unsuccessful sharp movements of the leg during the turn. This injury can also be a consequence of the elevation of great gravity. The most common ruptures are noted in athletes. But the risk group includes elderly people, as the meniscus wears out with age.

The most important factor affecting the healing rate of a rupture is the place of injury. Any of the two menisci can be injured. If the rupture occurred from the outside, then most of the joint comes to normal pretty quickly because of good blood supply. If the trauma is in the internal area, then the healing will be longer and more difficult.

Meniscus ruptures are of three types. Each of them has a different degree of symptoms.

1. A small gap. It is accompanied by swelling and a weak pain syndrome. As a rule, discomfort sensations disappear on their own after 3 weeks.

2. Rupture of moderate severity. Pain is localized in the central region of the knee. Within three days after injury, a strong tumor grows. This leads to stiffness when flexing the knee. But the ability to walk, relying on an injured leg, remains. Symptoms of a meniscus rupture disappear within a few weeks, but with excessive physical exertion, they may reappear. If the damage is left untreated, it will be felt for several years.

3. Severe meniscus ruptures can immobilize the limb. In addition, fragments of the damaged disc can get into the joint space. In this case, often the knee produces specific sounds. Straighten the leg becomes very difficult. If the knee and retain mobility, then it can suddenly bend. Within two days, a tumor appears, as it grows, the knee joint becomes more and more chained.

If the rupture occurs in athletes sharply due to unsuccessful movement, then in older people this is a slow process. A person may not remember when the damage occurred. First, there is a slight pain, more often when you get up. After it there is a slight swelling. If these symptoms are observed, then it is necessary to consult a doctor. He will conduct a thorough examination, ask about the previous injuries. Only after this a preliminary diagnosis will be made. For a more thorough examination, you may have to visit an orthopedic surgeon. Also it will be necessary to pass a number of tests. They will allow you to see a clearer picture of the damage. Of course, the treatment is long, because it is not a bruise or dislocation, but a meniscus rupture. The operation is assigned in the most difficult cases.