Partial Meniscectomy
Partial Meniscectomy: Recovery and Rehabilitation through Physiotherapy
A partial meniscectomy is a common surgical procedure used to treat a torn meniscus in the knee. The meniscus is a crescent-shaped piece of cartilage that acts as a cushion between the thighbone (femur) and shinbone (tibia). Meniscal tears are a common injury, often resulting from sports or activities involving twisting, pivoting, or heavy lifting. A partial meniscectomy involves removing the damaged portion of the meniscus while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible. At Brisbane Physiotherapy, we offer tailored rehabilitation programs to help patients recover quickly and regain full knee function following this surgery.
What is a Partial Meniscectomy?
When the meniscus is torn, it can cause pain, swelling, and limited mobility in the knee. If the tear does not heal with conservative treatment, such as rest, physiotherapy, or injections, surgery may be recommended. In a partial meniscectomy, the surgeon removes the torn and damaged part of the meniscus, leaving the remaining healthy tissue intact to maintain some cushioning and stability in the knee joint.
This procedure is typically performed arthroscopically, using small incisions and a camera to guide the surgeon, which reduces recovery time compared to open surgery. Following surgery, physiotherapy plays a critical role in ensuring a successful recovery and a return to normal activities.
Benefits of Physiotherapy After a Partial Meniscectomy
Physiotherapy is essential for restoring strength, flexibility, and mobility in the knee following a partial meniscectomy. At Brisbane Physiotherapy, we create personalised rehabilitation plans to address each patient’s unique needs and recovery goals.
Pain Management: Initially, physiotherapy focuses on controlling pain and reducing swelling. Ice therapy, manual therapy, and modalities such as electrotherapy may be used to ease discomfort and promote healing in the early stages.
Range of Motion Exercises: Maintaining or restoring knee mobility is crucial after surgery. Gentle exercises are introduced to improve flexibility and prevent stiffness, ensuring that the knee regains its full range of motion.
Strengthening Exercises: Strengthening the muscles around the knee, particularly the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calf muscles, helps support the joint and improve function. Strengthening exercises are gradually progressed to ensure a safe and effective recovery.
Balance and Proprioception: Surgery and injury can affect your balance and coordination. Physiotherapists will guide you through exercises designed to restore proprioception (the body's awareness of movement and position) and improve stability, which is essential for preventing future injuries.
Gradual Return to Activity: As your recovery progresses, your physiotherapist will help you gradually return to daily activities and sports. A structured program is essential to avoid overloading the knee too soon and risking re-injury.
Conclusion
A partial meniscectomy is an effective solution for many individuals suffering from a torn meniscus, but successful recovery depends heavily on post-operative physiotherapy. At Brisbane Physiotherapy, our expert team is dedicated to helping patients regain mobility, strength, and confidence in their knee. Whether you're recovering from surgery or seeking treatment for a knee injury, we are here to support you every step of the way. Contact us today to learn more about our personalised rehabilitation programs.
