Anatomy and Function
Meniscus:
The meniscus is a C-shaped cartilage piece that cushions between the thighbone (femur) and the shinbone (tibia). Each knee has two menisci: the medial meniscus on the inside and the lateral meniscus on the outside. The primary function of the meniscus is to absorb shock and distribute weight across the knee joint.
ACL:
The ACL is one of the four major ligaments in the knee and runs diagonally in the middle. It helps stabilise the knee by preventing the tibia from sliding out in front of the femur and providing rotational stability.
Causes of Injury
Meniscus Tears:
Meniscus tears are often caused by a sudden twist or turn during activities that involve aggressive pivoting or sudden stops, such as in sports like soccer, basketball, and tennis. They can also occur due to direct impact or degeneration over time, especially in older adults. Find out more about treatment options here.
ACL Injuries:
ACL injuries typically occur during sports that involve sudden stops, jumps, or changes in direction. Common scenarios include landing awkwardly from a jump, stopping suddenly, or pivoting on a planted foot. Direct contact or collision, such as in football or rugby, can cause ACL tears. Our blog post on ACL surgery recovery provides more information on ACL injuries.
Symptoms
How do the symptoms of the two different injuries differ? It may be easier to tell if you are going for a professional knee checkup so that the specialist can diagnose and provide you with the right treatment options. But here are some signs you can look out for :
Meniscus Tears:
– Pain, particularly along the joint line
– Swelling and stiffness
– Difficulty bending and straightening the leg
– A feeling of the knee catching or locking
– A sense of instability or giving way
ACL Injuries:
– A loud “pop” at the time of injury
– Severe pain and inability to continue activity
– Rapid swelling
– Loss of range of motion
– A feeling of instability or the knee “giving out”
Both injuries are typically diagnosed through physical examination and imaging studies. The physical exam may include specific tests such as the McMurray test for meniscus tears and the Lachman test for ACL injuries. Imaging studies like MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) are commonly used to confirm the diagnosis and assess the extent of the injury.
Treatment
Meniscus Tears:
– Conservative Treatment: Small tears, especially in the outer part of the meniscus with a good blood supply, may heal with rest, ice, compression, elevation (RICE), and physical therapy.
– Surgical Treatment: Larger tears or those not responding to conservative treatment may require arthroscopic surgery. Procedures can include partial meniscectomy (removal of the torn part) or meniscus repair. Our surgeons usually attempt to repair the meniscus if possible.
ACL Injuries:
– Conservative Treatment: Partial tears or less active individuals might be managed with bracing and physical therapy to strengthen surrounding muscles and improve stability.
-Surgical Treatment: Complete tears often require reconstructive surgery, especially for athletes or those with high functional demands. This involves replacing the torn ligament with a graft, typically from the patient’s hamstring or patellar tendon. If you suspect you suffer from an ACL tear, you can consult an ACL specialist to learn more about treatment.
Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation is crucial for both meniscus and ACL injuries. It involves a structured physical therapy program to restore strength, flexibility, and stability. The duration and intensity of rehabilitation vary depending on the severity of the injury and the type of treatment received.
– Meniscus Tears: Rehab can range from a few weeks for minor tears treated conservatively to several months following surgical repair.
– ACL Injuries: Post-surgical rehabilitation is extensive, often lasting 6 to 12 months, and focuses on regaining full function and preventing future injuries.
Conclusion
While meniscus tears and ACL injuries affect the knee and can significantly impact mobility and quality of life, their anatomy, causes, symptoms, and treatment approaches differ. Accurate diagnosis and appropriate management are essential for optimal recovery. If you suspect a meniscus tear or ACL injury, consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation and tailored treatment plan. Understanding meniscus tears vs ACL injuries can help make informed decisions to achieve the best possible outcomes. For more in-depth information on knee injuries and treatments, visit Hip & Knee Orthopaedics Singapore. Our team of double fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeons specialises in hip and knee care, ensuring individualised treatment that meets your unique needs and goals.
