Experts Explain Knee Health and Meniscus Tears

Experts drew attention to common misconceptions regarding the structure of the knee joint, causes of pain, and meniscus tears. It was noted that even seemingly mild complaints could be harbingers of significant damage.

Causes and Symptoms of Knee Pain

The knee is a complex joint consisting of bones, cartilage, meniscus, ligaments, muscles, and tendons, and problems in these structures can cause pain. The intensity of pain does not always indicate the severity of the disease; even mild complaints can be the first sign of meniscus or cartilage damage.

While pain around the kneecap increases with stair climbing, squatting, or prolonged sitting, pain on the inner or outer sides is associated with meniscus tears, cartilage damage, or calcification.

Meniscus Tears Can Occur at Any Age

Meniscus tears are not only seen in athletes; they can occur due to trauma in young people and simple movements in older ages. Especially in pains starting after a twisting movement, the menisci need to be evaluated.

Pain in the back of the knee can stem from a Baker's cyst, muscle-tendon problems, or vascular diseases. If there is swelling, redness, and an increase in warmth in the calf, the vascular system must definitely be examined.

Swelling and Conditions Developing After Trauma

Rapid swelling developing in the first hours after trauma may be related to an anterior cruciate ligament injury or intra-articular bleeding. Swelling developing one to two days later is generally seen in meniscus injuries.

Recurrent swelling after intense activity is a sign of a meniscus or calcification, and the passing of the swelling does not mean that the underlying problem has healed. In situations accompanied by fever and shivering, a doctor must be consulted without wasting time under suspicion of a joint infection.

True Locking and Diagnostic Processes

The expression of knee locking frequently used among the public does not always mean true locking. In true locking, the knee cannot be straightened or bent beyond a certain point, and this situation can stem from large meniscus tears or loose fragments.

Diagnosis in knee diseases is not made solely by MRI; physical examination and the patient's history are the primary determinants. Not every meniscus tear seen on an MRI requires surgery; exercise, weight control, and physical therapy are sufficient for many patients.