Lateral Cartilage Meniscus Inflammation / Abnormality

What is the lateral meniscus?

Cartilage is a semicircular ring that that acts as a shock absorber for the bones. Acute cartilage meniscus injury can occur as a result of an impact or twisting. In addition a gradual onset of pain to the outside of the knee can be caused by degeneration of the lateral meniscus. The injury is often mistaken for iliotibial band friction syndrome.

What are the symptoms?

• Pain to the outside of the knee which gradually comes on.
• Pain comes on during a run and gets worse.
• Injury is aggravated by running up hills.
• Tenderness along the joint line of the knee.
• McMurrays test is positive.
• A lump may be present in the joint line of the knee.

What can the athlete do:

• If there is swelling you should apply RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) to the injured knee.
• Rest the injured knee (you may be able to work your upper body though).
• Wear a support or knee brace which will protect and support the knee joint while it heals.
• See a sports injury therapist or physiotherapist who will advise on a rehabilitation programme.
• Improve the strength of the muscles around the knee when able to do so.
• Take a glucosamine supplement to help the cartilage heal.

This condition will usually clear up given enough rest.

A Sports Injury Specialist or Doctor could:

• Perform an arthroscopy (insert a small camera through a small hole and look inside the knee to see what has actually happened.
• Advise on a full rehabilitation programme.