Lateral Meniscus Tear - Knee: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

What Is a Lateral Meniscus Tear?

The lateral meniscus is one of two menisci in the knee joint, located on the outer side of the knee. It provides cushioning, stabilizes the knee, and helps distribute the weight of the body across the knee joint. A lateral meniscus tear occurs when there is damage to this cartilage, which can result from a traumatic injury or gradual wear over time.

Lateral meniscus tears are less common than medial meniscus tears but can still cause significant symptoms and complications, especially if not treated properly. These tears can range from small, partial tears to more severe, full-thickness tears that compromise knee function.

Causes of a Lateral Meniscus Tear

Lateral meniscus tears can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

Trauma or Injury

• Twisting or Pivoting Movements: A sudden twisting or pivoting motion, such as in contact sports like soccer, football, or basketball, can cause the knee to rotate abnormally, placing excessive stress on the lateral meniscus and leading to a tear.

• Direct Impact: A direct blow to the knee, such as from a fall or collision, can damage the meniscus.

• Sudden Force or Overuse: Repetitive activities that put constant pressure on the knee joint, such as running or jumping, can contribute to the development of a meniscus tear over time, especially in individuals with pre-existing joint conditions.

Degenerative Changes

• Aging: As individuals age, the meniscus becomes more fragile and prone to damage. A tear may occur more easily with everyday movements or even without a specific injury.

• Pre-existing Knee Conditions: Conditions like osteoarthritis or previous knee injuries can increase the risk of developing a meniscus tear, as they cause weakening of the cartilage over time.

Symptoms of a Lateral Meniscus Tear

Symptoms of a lateral meniscus tear can vary depending on the severity and location of the tear but commonly include:

• Pain on the Outer Side of the Knee: Pain is often localized to the outer (lateral) side of the knee joint. This pain may be aggravated by activities that involve twisting, pivoting, or weight-bearing.

• Swelling: Swelling may develop in the knee, often within hours or a day of the injury. The swelling may worsen after physical activity.

• Stiffness: Limited range of motion in the knee, making it difficult to fully straighten or bend the leg.

• Locking or Catching Sensation: The knee may feel as though it is “locking” or “catching” during movement. This can happen if a piece of torn cartilage moves into the joint space and prevents smooth movement.

• Instability: The knee may feel unstable or give way when walking or during certain activities.

Diagnosing a Lateral Meniscus Tear

To diagnose a lateral meniscus tear, a healthcare provider will perform a physical examination and may order imaging studies to confirm the diagnosis.

Physical Examination

The doctor will assess the knee for tenderness, swelling, and range of motion. Specific tests such as the McMurray Testor Apley’s Compression Test may be performed to detect signs of a meniscus tear. These tests involve manipulating the knee joint in specific ways to provoke symptoms.

Imaging Studies

• X-rays: X-rays may be taken to rule out other possible conditions, such as fractures or arthritis. However, X-rays cannot detect soft tissue injuries like meniscus tears.

• MRI: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the most effective way to diagnose a lateral meniscus tear. It provides detailed images of the knee's soft tissues and can show the location, size, and severity of the tear.

Treatment for a Lateral Meniscus Tear

Treatment for a lateral meniscus tear depends on the severity of the tear, the patient's age, activity level, and overall health. There are both non-surgical and surgical treatment options available.

Non-Surgical Treatment

For minor or partial tears, conservative treatments can often provide relief:

1. Rest and Ice

   • Resting the knee and applying ice can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. Ice should be applied for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day.

2. Physical Therapy

   • Strengthening Exercises: A physical therapist can help design a rehabilitation program that focuses on strengthening the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calf muscles to improve knee stability.

   • Range of Motion Exercises: Gentle stretches and exercises can help restore movement and flexibility to the knee.

   • Balance and Stability Exercises: These exercises help improve the function of the knee joint and reduce the risk of future injury.

3. Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

   • NSAIDs such as ibuprofen or naproxen can be used to reduce inflammation and manage pain associated with the injury.

4. Bracing

   • A knee brace may be used to provide additional support and stability to the knee during the recovery process.

5. Injections

   • Corticosteroid Injections can help reduce inflammation and provide temporary pain relief.

   • Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections may promote healing of the damaged meniscus and reduce symptoms in some cases.

Surgical Treatment

If conservative treatment does not relieve symptoms, or if the tear is severe, surgery may be required. Surgical options include:

1. Arthroscopic Meniscus Repair

   • In arthroscopic surgery, small incisions are made in the knee, and a tiny camera (arthroscope) is used to guide the surgeon in repairing the meniscus. If the tear is in a location where it can heal, the surgeon will stitch the cartilage back together.

2. Meniscectomy

   • If the tear is large or the damaged portion of the meniscus cannot be repaired, the surgeon may remove part or all of the damaged meniscus in a procedure called a meniscectomy.

3. Meniscus Transplant

   • In rare cases where the meniscus is severely damaged, a meniscus transplant may be considered. This involves replacing the damaged meniscus with a donor meniscus.

Recovery and Prognosis

• Non-Surgical Recovery: Recovery from a lateral meniscus tear with conservative treatment typically involves rest, physical therapy, and pain management. Full recovery can take several weeks to months, depending on the severity of the tear.

• Post-Surgical Recovery: Recovery after surgery depends on the type of procedure performed. For meniscus repair, recovery can take 4-6 months. Meniscectomy generally has a quicker recovery time, but there may be a higher risk of developing osteoarthritis in the long term due to the loss of cartilage.

Preventing Lateral Meniscus Tears

While it is not always possible to prevent a meniscus tear, the following steps can help reduce the risk:

• Warm-Up and Stretch: Proper warm-up and stretching before physical activity can help prepare the knee and prevent injury.

• Strengthen the Muscles Around the Knee: Strong quadriceps, hamstrings, and calf muscles provide better knee stability and help protect the meniscus.

• Use Proper Footwear: Wearing shoes that provide adequate support, especially during sports or high-impact activities, can help reduce stress on the knee joint.

• Avoid Sudden Twists and Pivots: Try to avoid sudden, twisting motions, particularly in sports that require quick directional changes.

A lateral meniscus tear can cause significant discomfort and disrupt daily activities. If you are experiencing knee pain, difficulty moving your knee, or suspect you have a lateral meniscus tear, contact Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health to schedule a consultation. Our team is committed to providing effective treatment to help you recover and return to an active lifestyle.