Meniscectomy

Meniscectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of part or all of a damaged meniscus in the knee. The meniscus is a C-shaped piece of cartilage that cushions and stabilizes the joint. When damaged or torn, it can cause pain, swelling, and limited mobility.

Causes

Meniscal tears, the primary reason for a meniscectomy, can occur in any age group but are most commonly seen in athletes due to direct impact or twisting injuries to the knee. In older adults, degenerative changes can lead to meniscal tears even without significant trauma.

Symptoms

The most common symptoms of a meniscal tear include pain, swelling, stiffness, difficulty moving the knee, and a feeling that the knee may give way or lock up.

Treatment and Physical Therapy

Physical therapy plays an essential role in recovery after a meniscectomy. Here's what to expect from your physical therapy journey at Excel Physical Therapy:

1. Pain and Swelling Management: Initially, we will use various techniques and modalities like cold therapy, compression, and elevation to control swelling and pain.
2. Mobility Exercises: We will help restore your knee's range of motion through guided stretching and mobility exercises. These aim to increase flexibility and reduce stiffness.
3. Strength Training: Once you have achieved adequate knee mobility, your therapist will introduce exercises to strengthen the muscles surrounding the knee, particularly the quadriceps and hamstrings. This helps support the knee joint and prevent further injury.
4. Balance and Stability Training: We will guide you through balance exercises to improve your knee's stability and to help prevent future falls or injuries.
5. Functional Training: To help you return to your normal daily activities, your physical therapist will incorporate functional training into your routine. This can include specific exercises tailored to your needs and activities, like climbing stairs or squatting.
6. Education: We believe that an informed patient can play an active role in their recovery. Therefore, we will provide you with information about your condition, recovery expectations, and a home exercise program to maintain your knee health.