Rehabilitation and Return to Sports of Meniscal Injuries
摘要
Meniscal injuries are one of the most common orthopedic issues, particularly among athletes. These injuries can lead to compromised knee function and, if untreated, an accelerated onset of osteoarthritis. Treatment approaches vary from conservative management to surgical interventions, such as meniscal repair, partial meniscectomy, or meniscal allograft transplantation (MAT), with each option bearing distinct implications for rehabilitation and return to sports (RTS). This chapter explores the anatomy and vascularization of the meniscus, factors influencing healing, and patient selection for meniscal repair versus meniscectomy. The effectiveness of various rehabilitation protocols following meniscal surgery is analyzed and new methods are explored such as blood flow restriction therapy and anti-gravity treadmill use. The unique challenges presented by concurrent anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstructions are also highlighted. The chapter also emphasizes the growing preference for meniscal preservation due to its long-term benefits for knee health. Additionally, return-to-sport timelines are compared across different procedures, highlighting the complexities in balancing rapid recovery with long-term joint preservation.