Medical Library
Meniscal Tears
The menisci (plural for meniscus) are cartilage pads, which function to cushion the compressive loads in the knee. One or both of these pads can be torn which often occurs when the lower leg is forcefully bent and twisted. Signs and symptoms include joint line pain, locking and swelling of the knee. The tear often has a bucket handle or parrot beak shape. Treatment should consist of rest, ice, compression and elevation. Arthroscopic surgery is indicated for a large tear.
Possible Treatments
- Aerobic/Endurance Exercise Video
- Core Strengthening Video
- Cryotherapy or Cold Therapy Video
- Electrotherapeutic Modalities
- Gait or Walking Training Video
- Isotonics Video
- Isometric Exercise Video
- Knee Active Range of Motion Video
- Knee Joint Mobilization Video
- Knee Passive Range of Motion Video
- Knee Resistive Range of Motion Video
- Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation Video
- Plyometrics Video
- Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) Video
- Proprioception Exercises Video
- Physical Agents
- Soft Tissue Mobilization Video
- Stretching/Flexibility Exercise Video
- Walking Training (called Gait Training)
- Aerobic/Endurance Exercise
Possible Treatment Goals
- Improve Balance
- Decrease Risk of Reoccurrence
- Improve Fitness
- Improve Function
- Improve Muscle Strength and Power
- Increase Oxygen to Tissues
- Improve Proprioception
- Improve Range of Motion
- Self-care of Symptoms
- Improve Tolerance for Prolonged Activities
- Improve Wound Healing
Additional Resources
Knee Articles- Quadriceps Muscle Strains
- Meniscal Tears
- Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Tear
- Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL) Tear
- Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL) Tear
- Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL) Tears
- Anterior Knee Pain
- Patello-femoral Pain (Commonly Called Chondromalacia Patella)
- Patellar Tendinitis (Jumper's Knee)
- Knee Osteoarthritis
- Iliotibial Band Friction Syndrome (ITBS)
- Knee Replacement
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The information in this medical library is intended for informational and educational purposes only and in no way should be taken to be the provision or practice of physical therapy, medical, or professional healthcare advice or services. The information should not be considered complete or exhaustive and should not be used for diagnostic or treatment purposes without first consulting with your physical therapist, occupational therapist, physician or other healthcare provider. The owners of this website accept no responsibility for the misuse of information contained within this website.
