Meniscus Tears

Here you will get an overview of the pathology, the ability to treat diseases with Oriental medicine, and with acupressure therapies along with other therapies combined.

The information is updated gradually and regularly. For reference only, not a substitute for your doctor.

Meniscus tears are a common injury that occurs in the knee joint. The meniscus is a cartilage that acts as a shock absorber between the thigh bone and shinbone. The knee joint has two menisci, one on the inner side of the knee and one on the outer side. Meniscus tears can range from minor to severe, depending on the extent of the damage.

Causes and Risk Factors

Meniscus tears are often caused by sudden twisting or rotating movements of the knee. This can happen during sports activities, such as football, basketball, or soccer, or during activities that involve sudden stops and starts, such as tennis or skiing. Meniscus tears can also occur as a result of wear and tear over time, especially in older adults.

Risk factors for meniscus tears include participating in sports or activities that involve twisting or rotating the knee, having a previous knee injury or surgery, and having weakened or worn-out menisci due to aging or overuse.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a meniscus tear can include pain, swelling, stiffness, and difficulty moving the knee joint. Some people may also experience a popping sensation in the knee at the time of injury. Symptoms may be more severe with a larger tear or if a piece of the torn meniscus is floating in the joint, causing locking or catching of the knee.

Prevention

Preventing meniscus tears involves taking steps to reduce your risk of knee injuries. This includes warming up before exercise, wearing proper footwear, using proper technique during sports activities, and using protective gear, such as knee pads or braces.

Maintaining strong leg muscles through regular exercise and stretching can also help to prevent knee injuries. Avoiding activities that put excessive stress on the knee joint, such as running on hard surfaces, can also help to reduce your risk of meniscus tears.

Treatment

Treatment for meniscus tears depends on the severity of the injury. In some cases, rest, ice, and over-the-counter pain medication may be sufficient to manage symptoms and promote healing. In more severe cases, surgery may be required to repair or remove the torn meniscus.

Oriental Medicine

Oriental medicine, including acupuncture and acupressure, may be helpful in managing the symptoms of meniscus tears and promoting healing. These therapies are based on the concept of energy flow through the body, and aim to restore balance and promote healing.

Acupuncture involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body, while acupressure involves the application of pressure to these same points. Both therapies are believed to stimulate the body's natural healing processes and promote circulation of blood and energy to the affected area.

While some people may find relief from these therapies, it is important to note that they should not be used as a substitute for conventional medical treatment. Anyone with a meniscus tear should consult with their doctor before trying alternative therapies, and should continue to follow their doctor's recommended treatment plan.

Conclusion

In conclusion, meniscus tears can be a painful and limiting injury, but with proper prevention, treatment, and care, most people can recover fully. By taking steps to reduce your risk of knee injuries and seeking prompt medical attention for any symptoms, you can help to protect your knee joint and avoid complications. While alternative therapies such as Oriental medicine, acupuncture, and acupressure may be helpful in managing symptoms, they should be used in conjunction with conventional medical treatment under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional.

References