Meniscus derangements are quite common among athletes and people who engage in physically demanding activities. The meniscus is a C-shaped piece of cartilage that cushions the knee joint. It acts as a shock absorber and helps prevent the bones from rubbing against each other. However, sometimes, due to overuse or injury, the meniscus can become damaged or torn.
One of the most common types of meniscus derangement is a tear in the posterior horn of the lateral meniscus. The posterior horn of the lateral meniscus is located at the back of the knee joint, towards the outside of the leg. Tears in this area can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness in the knee joint.
Other meniscus derangements include tears in the anterior horn of the medial meniscus, the posterior horn of the medial meniscus, and the body of the meniscus. Anterior horn tears are located at the front of the knee joint, towards the inside of the leg. Tears in this area can also cause pain, swelling, and stiffness in the knee joint.
Posterior horn tears of the medial meniscus are located at the back of the knee joint, towards the inside of the leg. Tears in this area can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness in the knee joint, similar to tears in the posterior horn of the lateral meniscus.
Tears in the body of the meniscus can occur anywhere in the meniscus and can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness in the knee joint. These types of tears are usually caused by overuse and degeneration of the meniscus due to aging.
Preventing meniscus derangements involves taking care of your knee joint and avoiding activities that put excessive stress on the knee. This includes maintaining a healthy weight, wearing proper footwear, and using proper techniques during physical activities.
Overall, meniscus derangements can be painful and debilitating, but with proper treatment and prevention, you can minimize the risk of injury and maintain a healthy knee joint.