ClinicClinical Presentation | DOI: https://doi.org/10.31579/2835-8465/034
Role of Physiotherapy in the Rehabilitation of Meniscal Injuries
- Mohammad Habibur Rahman, *
Assistant Professor of Physiotherapy, School of Science and Technology, Bangladesh Open University, Gazipur-1705, Bangladesh.
*Corresponding Author: Mohammad Habibur Rahman, Assistant Professor of Physiotherapy, School of Science and Technology, Bangladesh Open University, Gazipur-1705, Bangladesh.
Citation: Mohammad Habibur Rahman, (2025), Role of Physiotherapy in the Rehabilitation of Meniscal Injuries. Orthopaedics Case Reports. 4(6); DOI:10.31579/2835-8465/034
Copyright: © 2025, Mohammad Habibur Rahman. This is an open-access artic le distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited.
Received: 04 November 2025 | Accepted: 17 November 2025 | Published: 21 November 2025
Keywords: meniscal injury; physiotherapy rehabilitation; knee injury; conservative management; postoperative rehabilitation
Abstract
Meniscal injuries are among the most common knee pathologies encountered in orthopedic and sports medicine practice. They can result from acute trauma or degenerative processes and often lead to pain, swelling, mechanical symptoms, and functional limitation. Physiotherapy plays a pivotal role in both conservative management and postoperative rehabilitation of meniscal injuries. This article reviews the anatomy and function of the meniscus, mechanisms of injury, clinical presentation, and emphasizes the role of physiotherapy in restoring knee function, reducing pain, and preventing long-term complications.
Introduction
The menisci are crescent-shaped fibrocartilaginous structures located between the femoral condyles and tibial plateau. They play a crucial role in load transmission, shock absorption, joint stability, and proprioception of the knee joint. Injury to the meniscus can significantly impair knee biomechanics and functional performance.
Meniscal injuries may be managed conservatively or surgically, depending on the type, severity, and patient characteristics. Physiotherapy is a cornerstone of treatment, essential for symptom control, functional recovery, and prevention of secondary joint degeneration.
Anatomy and Function of the Meniscus
The medial and lateral menisci differ in shape, mobility, and injury susceptibility. The medial meniscus is less mobile and more commonly injured. The menisci:
- Distribute axial loads across the knee joint
- Enhance joint congruency
- Provide shock absorption
- Contribute to joint lubrication and nutrition
- Aid proprioceptive feedback
Damage to the meniscus alters load distribution, increasing the risk of cartilage degeneration and osteoarthritis.
Mechanism and Types of Meniscal Injuries
Meniscal injuries may occur due to:
- Twisting movements on a flexed knee
- Sudden changes in direction during sports
- Degenerative changes in older individuals
Common types of tears include:
- Longitudinal
- Radial
- Horizontal
- Bucket-handle
- Complex tears
The management approach influences the rehabilitation strategy.
Clinical Presentation
Patients with meniscal injuries typically present with:
- Knee pain localized to the joint line
- Swelling or effusion
- Locking or catching sensation
- Restricted range of motion
- Difficulty with squatting, stair climbing, or pivoting activities
Physiotherapy assessment focuses on pain, swelling, range of motion, muscle strength, gait, and functional limitations.
Role of Physiotherapy in Conservative Management
Many meniscal injuries, particularly stable or degenerative tears, can be managed non-surgically. Physiotherapy aims to:
1. Pain and Inflammation Control
- Cryotherapy
- Electrotherapy modalities
- Activity modification
2. Restoration of Range of Motion
- Gentle passive and active knee mobilization
- Stretching exercises for hamstrings, quadriceps, and calf muscles
3. Muscle Strengthening
- Quadriceps strengthening (especially vastus medialis obliquus)
- Hamstring and gluteal strengthening
- Closed kinetic chain exercises to enhance joint stability
4. Proprioception and Neuromuscular Training
- Balance and coordination exercises
- Functional movement training
5. Functional Rehabilitation
- Gait training
- Return-to-activity progression
- Sport-specific drills where appropriate
Role of Physiotherapy in Postoperative Rehabilitation
Following meniscal repair or meniscectomy, physiotherapy is essential for optimal recovery.
Early Phase
- Pain and edema management
- Protected weight bearing as advised
- Gentle range-of-motion exercises
Intermediate Phase
- Progressive strengthening
- Restoration of full knee motion
- Proprioceptive and balance training
Advanced Phase
- Functional strengthening
- Agility and endurance training
- Gradual return to sports or occupational activities
Rehabilitation protocols are individualized based on the surgical procedure and patient response.
Prevention of Long-Term Complications
Physiotherapy helps reduce the risk of:
- Knee instability
- Recurrent injury
- Early onset osteoarthritis
Education on proper biomechanics, activity modification, and long-term exercise adherence is an integral component of rehabilitation.
Conclusion
Physiotherapy plays a vital role in the rehabilitation of meniscal injuries, whether managed conservatively or surgically. A structured and individualized rehabilitation program focusing on pain control, muscle strengthening, proprioception, and functional restoration is essential for optimal outcomes. Early intervention and adherence to physiotherapy protocols significantly improve knee function and quality of life while minimizing long-term complications.
Conflict of Interest
The authors declare no conflict of interest.
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