Re-Energise Physio: Focus on Meniscal Tears
Meniscal tears are one of the most common knee injuries. People who play contact sports are in the group most at risk for a meniscal tear. However, Alex Boyd of Papamoa’s Re-Energise Physio says potentially anyone can get tear their meniscus, at any age.
“Meniscal tears are very common knee injuries, says Alex. “If someone is talking about a torn cartilage in their knee, they’re likely to be describing a meniscal tear.”
The menisci are the two pieces of cartilage which cushion the knee joint, between the femur and tibia, helping to stabilise the knee and absorb shock during movements like twisting the knee or traumatic contact during sport, such as a tackle in rugby.
Alex advises the best thing to do if you suspect you’ve torn your meniscus is to make an appointment to see one of the skilled staff at Re-Energise Physio on Parton Road, Papamoa Beach, for a diagnosis and to discuss treatment and rehabilitation.
“With the right physiotherapy treatment and rehabilitation, the prospect of a patient getting back to their pre-injury capability is very good,” says Alex.
If someone tears a meniscus, they might feel a ‘pop’ as it tears. Most people are still able to walk with the injury and many sportspeople have been known to continue playing on the injured knee, although Re-Energise Physio does not recommend this.
“Not seeking treatment can make the injury worse,” explains Alex. “There is a risk that pieces of the meniscus could come loose and drift into the joint.”
A patient with a torn meniscus may experience symptoms such as pain, stiffness, swelling or locking of the knee.
“In older patients,” adds Alex, “a meniscal tear might be due to degeneration of the meniscus. We can also help with this and we have trained staff who specialize in treatment of senior patients.”
Contact Re-energise Physio:
Address: 130 Parton Road, Papamoa
Call : 07 542 2396
Email: info@reenergisephysio.co.nz
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Re-Energise-Physiotherapy-1668545360031226/
Website: http://reenergisephysio.co.nz/
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