Treatment of a meniscus tear

A meniscal tear is one of the most common knee injuries and may occur as a result of physical overload, sports trauma, or degenerative changes. The menisci are crescent-shaped fibrocartilaginous structures that provide shock absorption, load distribution, and stability of the knee joint. Treatment of a meniscal tear is aimed at pain relief, restoration of joint function, and prevention of long-term complications.

When is treatment for a meniscal tear required?

• Acute knee pain, especially after trauma or physical exertion.
• Restricted knee mobility and difficulty walking, squatting, or participating in sports.
• Joint locking caused by a displaced or torn fragment of the meniscus.
• Persistence or progression of symptoms despite conservative treatment (medications, physiotherapy).

Treatment methods for a meniscal tear

Conservative treatment

• Medication therapy. Analgesics and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are used to reduce pain and inflammation.
• Rehabilitation and physiotherapy. Therapeutic exercises aimed at strengthening periarticular muscles and improving knee mobility.
• Use of orthopedic supports (knee braces or splints) to stabilize the joint during recovery.
• Cryotherapy and thermal procedures to reduce swelling and improve local circulation.

Surgical treatment

• Meniscectomy – removal of the damaged portion of the meniscus when repair is not feasible.
• Meniscal repair (meniscus suturing) – restoration of the torn meniscus using special sutures to preserve its structure and function.
• Meniscal reconstruction (meniscoplasty) – performed in cases of extensive damage, sometimes using grafts or implants.
• Minimally invasive surgery – arthroscopic techniques allowing treatment through small incisions with minimal trauma to healthy tissues.

Advantages of surgical treatment for meniscal tears in Belarus

• Effective pain relief and restoration of knee joint mobility.
• Preservation of the meniscus whenever possible, reducing the risk of early osteoarthritis.
• Rapid recovery due to the use of minimally invasive arthroscopic techniques.
• Lower risk of complications such as joint instability or degenerative changes with timely surgical intervention.

Recovery after meniscal tear treatment

• Structured rehabilitation programs with therapeutic exercises to restore strength and range of motion.
• Monitoring of joint condition using imaging studies such as MRI when clinically indicated.
• Temporary use of orthopedic braces to stabilize the knee in the early postoperative period.
• Anti-inflammatory therapy to control pain and postoperative swelling.

When should medical attention be sought?

• Persistent knee pain or limited motion, especially after injury or physical activity.
• Episodes of knee locking or mechanical blockage.
• Lack of improvement with conservative treatment or rehabilitation.

In Belarus, treatment of meniscal tears is provided in modern orthopedic and trauma centers equipped with advanced diagnostic and surgical technology. Specialists widely use arthroscopic techniques, ensuring effective treatment, rapid recovery, and a low risk of complications.