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Sports Injuries and Others

Meniscus Injury

OVERVIEW

The meniscus is a C-shaped cartilage in the knee that acts as a cushion and stabiliser, facilitating smooth joint movement. Meniscus injuries involve damage to this cartilage, often resulting from trauma or degeneration. These injuries can vary in severity, ranging from minor tears to more complex cases that require surgical intervention.

Types of meniscus injury:

There are two primary types of meniscus injuries:

  1. Tear: Tears can occur in different zones of the meniscus, each with its own set of challenges. Common types include radial tears, horizontal tears, and bucket-handle tears, each affecting the knee joint in distinct ways.
  2. Degeneration: Over time, the meniscus may wear down due to age-related degeneration. This can lead to a loss of protective and stabilising functions, causing pain and limiting joint mobility.

Causes of meniscus injury

Meniscus injuries can result from various causes, including:

  1. Trauma: Sudden, forceful twisting or direct impact on the knee during activities like sports or accidents can lead to meniscus tear
  2. Age-related changes: As individuals age, the meniscus may undergo degenerative changes, making it more susceptible to injury even with routine activities.
  3. Overuse: Repetitive stress on the knee joint, often seen in certain occupations or activities, can contribute to meniscus
SYMPTOMS
Recognising the signs of a meniscus injury is crucial for timely intervention. Common symptoms include:
  • Pain: Persistent pain, especially along the joint line, is a key indicator of a potential meniscus injury.
  • Swelling: Inflammation and swelling may occur as the body's response to the injury, leading to stiffness and discomfort.
  • Limited range of motion: Meniscus injuries can restrict the normal range of motion in the knee, making activities like bending or straightening the leg challenging.
TREATMENT
Dr Jason du Plessis employs a comprehensive approach to managing meniscus injuries that is tailored to each patient's unique situation.
  • Conservative treatment: Non-surgical options such as rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE), physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications are often considered for mild to moderate cases.
  • Surgery: For more severe tears or cases unresponsive to conservative measures, surgical interventions like arthroscopic meniscus repair or partial meniscectomy may be recommended. Dr du Plessis utilises advanced techniques to optimise outcomes and promote a speedy recovery.

FAQ

How long does recovery take after meniscus surgery?
Recovery time varies depending on the severity of the injury and the type of procedure performed. Dr du Plessis provides personalised rehabilitation plans, but patients typically return to normal activities within a few weeks to a few months.
Can I prevent meniscus injuries?
While some factors, like age-related degeneration, are unavoidable, maintaining strong leg muscles, practising proper techniques during physical activities, and using protective gear can help reduce the risk of meniscus injuries.
Will I need physical therapy after meniscus surgery?
Physical therapy is often a crucial part of the recovery process after meniscus surgery. It helps restore strength, flexibility, and joint function and ensures a more successful and sustainable outcome.

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    PUBLICATIONS

    Assessment of the Reliability and Reproducibility of the Langenskiöld
    Classification in Blount’s Disease

    DU PLESSIS J, Firth GB, Robertson A. Assessment of the reliability and reproducibility of the Langenskiöld classification in Blount's disease. Journal of Pediatric orthopedics. Part B. 2019 Nov 12.

     

    The Impact of the COVID-19 lockdown restrictions on orthopaedic trauma admissions in a central academic hospital in Johannesburg

    Foster M, Du Plessis J, Jansen van Vuuren M, Jingo M, Pietrzak JR. The impact of the COVID-19 lockdown restrictions on orthopaedic trauma admissions in a central academic hospital in Johannesburg. SA Orthopaedic Journal. 2022;21(2):70-5.

    Short term results following two stage revision for periprosthetic joint infection

    DU PLESSIS, J et al. Short-term results following two-stage revision for periprosthetic joint infection. South African Orthopaedic Journal, [S.l.], v. 19, n. 2, p. 64-69, may 2020

     

    Comparison of visual estimations of distal radius fracture radiographic parameters between different levels of orthopaedic doctors.

    Naidoo V, Milner B, du Plessis J. SA Orthop J. 2025;24(1):26-31. http://dx.doi.org/10.17159/2309-8309/2025/v24n1a4