Tips and prevention about meniscus injury

What is the meniscus for

In the case of the knees, the functions of the meniscus focus on reducing the consequences of the impacts that occur when the foot contacts the ground (be it walking, practicing some type of sport or even standing). You could say that they are small "pads" that cushion, supporting significant loads.

With age and the wear and tear that is suffered over the years, its function is compromised. The causes can have different origins, for intrinsic causes such as the individual's overweight or, or for extrinsic causes such as sports in which there is a certain degree of torsion.

When we speak of an intrinsic cause, in which there is a certain degeneration, at first we think of an older person suffering from osteoarthritis, but it is not uncommon for a young person to suffer from this type of pathology. We are therefore facing a genetic problem, it is then when prevention acquires greater importance. In a young person, doing muscular work is essential to avoid major consequences.

On the sport…

On the other hand, remember that during sports practice the joints multiply up to three times the load they have to bear at the time of the tread, which is why it is essential that all the structures are in perfect condition. Those athletes who spend many hours training can end up suffering wear and tear that directly affects the functionality of the meniscus.

But as for sports practice, it should be noted that there are a number of sports in which injury is usually more likely. They are all those in which there is a torsional component and sudden movements. He or soccer are sports in which the percentage of injuries is high.

In the case of skiing, the boot fixes the foot and the knee remains "free" which facilitates torsional movement. In the case of soccer, the studs that are driven into the field of play by a similar mechanism make it easier for the knee to rotate in the opposite direction to that of the foot.

How is it treated

In addition to differences in origin, there are also different levels of injury. The meniscus can crack or it can tear. Depending on the injury, the actions will also be different: it can be more or less conservative or even require surgery.

It is sometimes difficult to avoid this injury, but prevention at the level of exercise to strengthen the thigh and knee muscles is essential.

Stability and good musculature in this case are a perfect tandem.

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• The function of the meniscus is to reduce the consequences of impacts produced when the foot contacts the ground.
• Athletes who spend many hours training may suffer wear and tear that directly affects the functionality of the meniscus.
• Depending on the type of injury, treatment can be more or less conservative, or consist of undergoing surgery.