Menisci are tissues inside the knee joint. Their basic function is redistributing pressure between the shin bone and thigh bone (tibia and femur). Menisci can be damaged in many different ways. The image below shows the most common types of meniscus damage.

Situations where the meniscus is only slightly damaged and strengthening fully stabilizes the condition are far more common. However, with more extensive damage (which is much rarer), surgery is the best option. In that case, surgery should not be postponed.

Meniscus surgeries have long been routine procedures with an exceptionally high success rate. When surgery is not done well, a revision – a new surgery – is usually performed.

Post-surgery recovery has two phases: the medical phase and the training phase. Physiotherapists handle the medical phase and its goals are: bearing weight on the leg, reducing swelling, restoring full range of motion. Duration is usually 7-14 days.

The training phase takes 1-4 months. Recovery length depends on the type of damage and whether, besides the meniscus, another part of the knee was treated surgically. The goal of the training phase is gradual, progressive strengthening of surrounding tissues. During the training phase, pay attention to:

– How quickly full extension and bending (flexion) range of motion is restored

– How quickly the quadriceps and hamstrings adapt to training load

– When the leg is ready for running

– When the leg is ready for intense jumps

– How the menisci respond to full knee bending (flexion) under load

– Whether there is irritation during rapid changes of direction

An accurate diagnosis is the first step toward a successful recovery. Book an examination and let's start a process that leads to full recovery and a return to sports activities without fear, pain and uncertainty — with strength, confidence and a feeling of power.

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