Exercising w/Torn Medial Meniscus

Our user asked: "Hello~ My MRI shows 2 tears in the posterior horn of the medial meniscus and that the meniscus is subluxed from the joint. My therapist says its OK to continue w/PT sessions until my appt. w/MD (ortho specialist) as long as I avoid jumping. But----Will I do more damage to meniscus w/the stretches, lifts, ultrasound, ice & TENS stim I've been doing at PT? Thanks for your help!"

Ask a PT Response: "It is not uncommon for patients who have meniscus tears to participate in physical therapy. The main function of the meniscus is to help absorb forces at the knee and to allow for congruency at the knee so that the femur can sit on top of the tibia. As long as closed chain exercises (exercises which are performed with foot contacting ground) which are performed are controlled and limited for compression or rotation at the knee (ie. running, jumping, pivoting, etc.) further injury is less likely to occur.

For my patients who have conditions similar to yours, surgery is more than likely warranted for either scope and debridement of the injured meniscus or repair of the meniscus. Prior to surgery, physical therapy is helpful to help maintain strength and range of motion, but there is a point when a home exercise program should suffice until surgery. After surgery, physical therapy will definitely be beneficial for the patient. I hope this helps."