The Meniscus

The knee joint that consists of the femur and the tibia is unique in the sense that the joint surfaces of the two bones are not congruent or compatible. This lack of "competence" is corrected by the presence of the two knee cartilage pieces called the menisci. They are horse shoe shaped shock absorbers.

Meniscus Injuries, Degenerative Arthritis of the Knee

During life they get injured easily and frequently. Meniscus injuries impair weight bearing in the knee, because the weight bearing surface becomes reduced causing abnormal weight distribution. This eventually leads to early degenerative arthritis of the knee.

 

How to Preserve a Healthy Meniscus

Lack of hydration, strenuous exercise, or prolonged rest, can all be bad for the knees. The knee cartilage, or meniscus is a shock absorber that contributes to weight bearing and improves knee function. While continuous hydration and adequate nutrition is crucial for the cartilage to maintain its hydraulic properties and resilience, it is worthy to mention, that the cartilage has poor if any blood circulation. The nourishment or metabolism of the cartilage is carried out in two phases:

•  In non weight bearing, or phase one, the meniscus like a sponge absorbs surrounding joint fluid, full with nutrients.

•  In weight bearing, or phase two, the meniscus is compressed and its fluid content is being squeezed out. Since the composition of the joint fluid is identical to that of the blood, except the blood cells, the cartilage, absorbs nutrients and squeezes out toxic metabolic end products.(toxic metabolites).

To preserve a healthy meniscus, both standing in place and prolonged rest should be avoided due to the resulting stagnation of irritating substances in the tissue of the meniscus. The cartilage benefits from the alternating action of compression and relaxation (weight bearing - non weight bearing). Walking is the best exercise for the meniscus and the knee. When standing in place, the weight should be shifted side to side, regularly.

 

If you have a knee injury do not hesitate to seek timely, professional help.

Call New York Midtown Orthopedics for an appointment !

 

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