Within an incidence ratio of 60 to 70 for each 100,000 visits, meniscal tears of the knee are a common diagnosis among many sports injury scenarios. Meniscal tears have accumulated great amounts of lost time from physical activity and even employment, which is why understanding the risk factors for meniscal tears is essential, allowing for a quicker and more accurate diagnosis of injury. Lesions to the meniscus frequently occur in sport settings where tremendous dynamic demands are placed against the knee during specific movements. Moreover, meniscal tears may also occur during workplace environments where repetitive, constant motions can develop complications. Â
Basic activities, such as standing, lifting, squatting, kneeling and sitting, are believed to increase the chances of damage to the meniscus. The time between ACL, or anterior cruciate ligament, ruptures and surgical reconstruction procedures have also been acknowledged as a risk factor for meniscal lesions. Numerous elements contributing to this type of injury have been recognized, however, there’s limited research to support them.
Scientists at the University of Amsterdam, published a systematic review along with a meta-analysis, which investigated several key risk factors for meniscal tears.
The menisci are two semilunar ridge-like structures, which are positioned on the medial and lateral surface of the tibial plateau. The menisci function by allowing the convex surface of the femur to articulate on the concave surface of the tibia. Additionally, the menisci enable the conversion of weight as well as the absorption of shock during dynamic movements, acting to protect the articular cartilage. Meniscal lesions can be characterized as acute or degenerative, manifesting in different forms, such as a bucket handle tear, a horizontal tear, or a degenerative tear.
Meniscal tears of the knee are a common diagnosis among many athletes. Lesions to the meniscus frequently occur in sport settings where tremendous dynamic demands are placed against the knee during specific movements. However, simple activities, such as standing, lifting, squatting, kneeling and sitting, may also increase the chance of meniscal tears. For more information, please feel free to ask Dr. Jimenez or contact us at (915) 850-0900.