Cartilage Injury

There are two types of cartilage in the knee, hyaline cartilage and fibro-cartilage. The menisci are two crescent shape fibro-cartilages which sit between the long bones of the joint and are the most susceptible to injury. Their main job is to act as shock absorbers in the knee. Further to this they help to equalise the load placed through the joint as well as assisting in fluid movements.

What causes a cartilage injury?

Menisci tear most commonly result from a sporting injury that involves twisting on a loaded, bent knee. Often the knee will give way and this is quickly followed by pain and swelling. The severity of the pain is usually dependent on the size and location of the tear and can range from being very mild to extremely painful.

As part of the aging process the menisci lose elasticity and therefore become more susceptible to tears which can often occur spontaneously or as the result of simple movements such as rising from kneeling or squatting.

What are the symptoms of a cartilage injury?

Symptoms may include one or more of the following:
Knee pain – felt at the front or back of the knee but most commonly at the front
Giving way – often in conjunction with pain
Swelling around the front of the knee
Locking – the knee gets stuck and it is difficult to straighten it

Physiotherapy treatment for a cartilage injury

Some cartilage injuries require keyhole surgery in order to trim the damaged tissue. However many people with this type of injury respond extremely well to physiotherapy treatment and rehabilitation by reducing swelling & strengthening supporting muscles to aid stability.

Early physiotherapy intervention is advised in order to achieve optimal recovery and return you to your sporting and work activities as soon as possible. Often people who have undergone surgery will also benefit from a treatment program as they may find that their knee has become extremely weak.   Physiotherapy treatment at Cleethorpes Physio Clinic may include: