What Causes Meniscus Tears?

Meniscus tears are commonly seen in sports with intense physical contact, such as football, where kicking and rapid running occur. The risk of meniscus tears is also present in sports like volleyball and basketball, which involve jumping and interventions. Sudden changes in direction can damage the meniscus, and this condition often occurs alongside other knee injuries, such as anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears.

With age, the meniscus weakens and degenerates, increasing the risk of meniscus tears in older individuals. Specifically, more than 40% of people aged 65 and older may have meniscus tears.

How to Prevent Meniscus Tears?

Since meniscus tears often result from accidents, it can be challenging to prevent them entirely. However, certain measures can reduce the risk of knee injuries. Firstly, it is important to maintain strong and resilient thigh muscles through regular exercise. Warming up before exercise can reduce the risk of injury.

Providing the body with rest periods during exercise is also crucial; tired and slow-reacting muscles can increase the risk of injury. Additionally, the footwear used should provide adequate support and be worn correctly. Flexibility should be maintained, and strenuous movements should be limited. Gradually increasing and decreasing exercise intensity rather than making sudden changes is healthier.

Possible Complications Related to Meniscus Tears

In 85% to 90% of cases, surgery for meniscus tears yields positive short-term results. However, significant and irreparable meniscus injuries can increase the risk of knee arthritis in the long term. Surgical interventions for meniscus repair are generally low-risk, and complications are rare. Possible complications include nerve damage, infection, and knee stiffness. The doctor may prescribe antibiotics to reduce the risk of infection and recommend compression stockings to prevent blood clots.