The knee joint consists of a patella and a tibia. Its surface is covered with cartilage tissue, which has a number of strong ligaments in the structure. Extension and bending of the knee is accompanied by gliding, which is provided by the joint fluid and synovial membrane. The stability of the joint during movement is provided by the ligaments, its muscles and cartilage inside (menisci). Cartilages perform the function of a “shock absorber”. When walking, they shrink, changing shape.
Damage to the meniscus of the knee is one of the most common types of joint injuries. Mostly athletes are affected. There are two types of menisci. The internal is associated with the lateral ligament, is characterized by relative static. Outer cartilage is more mobile. The connection between them is provided due to the transverse ligament. Most often, damage to the internal meniscus of the knee joint occurs. It can be acute or chronic. According to the type, symptoms also appear.
Damage to the meniscus of the knee is accompanied by sharp pain in the entire knee. Then, it is localized on the outside or inside (depending on the type of injured cartilage). The patient's motor ability becomes sharply limited. He may not feel or feel a slight pain in the bent leg. The pain intensifies when you try to straighten it. In cases of damage to the meniscus of the knee joint, an increase (swelling) of the knee is possible .
Diagnosis of injury is based on examination and detailed questioning of the patient. To carry out fluoroscopy in such cases is impractical due to the transparency of the cartilage for x-rays. Identification of damage to the meniscus of the knee joint is performed by MRI or endoscopic arthroscopy.
The provision of first aid for injuries includes the application of a retaining tire, anesthesia and transportation of the patient to the traumatologist.
The treatment of damage to the meniscus of the knee joint can be conservative or surgical.
Conservative therapy includes the removal of blood (if necessary) from the injured area. Then cast for four weeks. After its removal, rehabilitation therapy is carried out.
A number of use arthroscopy. This diagnostic and less traumatic treatment method is today considered the most effective. Arthroscopy allows not only to study the damaged joint cavity, but also, if possible, staple injured cartilage. If this is not possible, a removal is performed (full or partial). Removal is also possible with arthroscopy. In the most severe cases, an arthrotomy is performed (open surgery).
In some cases, a joint puncture is performed, during which a solution of novocaine is administered. Then, lying in a horizontal position, the patient is adjusted damaged cartilage. In this case, the doctor takes the opposite actions to those that led to the injury. After the cartilage falls into place, all articular movements are restored. However, treatment does not end there. The leg (bent at a certain angle) is fixed with a plaster cast.
From the moment of treatment and application of gypsum to its removal, the patient should be at rest for three weeks.
After this period, physiotherapy exercises and physiotherapy are prescribed.
To prevent injuries, doctors recommend caution when making sudden movements, walking, running, descending and climbing stairs. With active sports, it is necessary to use fixing bandages or elastic bandages. Women are recommended to use more stable shoes.