How do meniscus injuries occur?

Meniscus injuries are among the most common knee injuries, both in athletes and those who don't play sports regularly. To understand how they occur, it's important to know the function of this structure within the joint.

The knee has two menisci: the medial (internal) and the lateral (external). They work as "shock absorbers" between the femur and tibia, helping to distribute the load, stabilize the joint, and protect the cartilage.

Mechanisms of injury

There are different ways the meniscus can tear:

• Twist movements of the knee. The most common cause is the spin of the knee with the foot firmly on the ground. This happens, for example, during a sudden change of direction in soccer or when turning the body on the supported leg.

  
  

• Repetitive stress. In activities that continuously overload the knee, the meniscus can wear down over time. This process increases the chance of tears even during simple everyday movements.

  
  

• Aging and degeneration. Over the years, the meniscus loses some of its elasticity and strength. This explains why degenerative injuries of the medial meniscus appear so frequently on MRI scans. However, it is important to emphasize that most of these wear-and-tear injuries do not cause any symptoms.

  
  

• Direct trauma. Although less common, strong impacts to the knee, such as in traffic accidents or falls, can also cause meniscal injuries.

Why is understanding the mechanism so important?

Knowing how the injury occurred helps the orthopedist identify the type of tear, choose the most appropriate treatment, and advise on preventive measures. For athletes, understanding the mechanism is also essential for correcting sports movements and reducing the risk of further injury.

When to see a doctor?

Not all knee pain indicates a meniscus injury, but some signs indicate it's time to see an orthopedic surgeon:

• Persistent pain that doesn't improve with rest;

• Frequent swelling or difficulty moving the knee;

• Episodes of locking of the joint;

• Story of trauma, falls, or sprains associated with the onset of symptoms.

A correct diagnosis, made through clinical evaluation and imaging tests, is essential to determine the most appropriate treatment, which can range from physical therapy to video-assisted surgery, depending on the type and severity of the injury.

Find out more

This article was published in conjunction with the blog on the website www.meniscos.com.br.