Meniscus injuries represent a significant issue for many individuals, especially for those involved in sports or physically intensive pursuits. Recognising the typical causes of these injuries is necessary for prevention and proper management.
Discover the key factors that lead to meniscus injuries in Singapore, aiding patients to properly address their physical well-being.
6 Key Factors Resulting to Meniscus Injuries
- Sports-Related Activities
One of the prime causes of meniscus injuries is participation in sports. Athletes, particularly those involved in contact sports such as football, rugby, and basketball, are at a higher risk. These activities often require sudden twists, pivots, and changes in direction, which can place excessive stress on the meniscus. For instance, in sports like football, rapid deceleration or landing awkwardly can lead to a torn meniscus. Orthopaedic surgeons frequently treat athletes who have sustained meniscus injuries during such activities.
- Ageing and Degenerative Changes
The meniscus becomes more susceptible to injury as people age due to degenerative changes. Degeneration of the meniscus tissue can make it brittle and prone to tears even during routine activities like squatting or stepping off a curb. Orthopaedic surgeons often encounter older patients with meniscus injuries that result from minor incidents, highlighting the impact of ageing on joint health.
- Occupational Hazards
Certain occupations involve repetitive knee stress, which can increase the likelihood of meniscus injuries. Jobs that require frequent kneeling, squatting, or heavy lifting put significant pressure on the knee joint and the meniscus. Workers in construction, manual labour, and certain healthcare roles are particularly vulnerable. Orthopaedic surgeons in Singapore often advise individuals in these professions to take preventive measures, such as using knee protection and adopting proper lifting techniques.
- Obesity and Excessive Body Weight
Excessive body weight is a significant risk factor for meniscus injuries. Lifestyle-related obesity is a growing concern in modern society, and the additional load on the knee joints can accelerate wear and tear on the meniscus. This instance is especially true for individuals who are obese and engage in high-impact activities. The added weight can lead to raised knee stress, making the meniscus prone to injury. Orthopaedic surgeons emphasise the importance of maintaining a healthy weight to reduce the risk of meniscus injuries.
- Previous Knee Injuries
Individuals with a history of knee injuries, such as ligament tears or fractures, are at a higher risk of sustaining meniscus injuries. Previous damage to the knee joint can lead to instability, making the meniscus vulnerable to tears. Orthopaedic surgeons often treat patients who suffer from meniscus injuries following earlier knee trauma. These cases highlight the need for comprehensive rehabilitation after initial knee injuries to minimise the risk of future meniscus damage.
- Genetic Predisposition
Some individuals may have a genetic predisposition to meniscus injuries due to the structure or composition of their knee joints. Orthopaedic surgeons recognise that certain patients are susceptible to meniscus tears because of inherited factors. These patients may experience injuries even with minimal trauma or during low-impact activities. Understanding genetic risks can help in developing personalised preventive strategies and treatment plans.
Conclusion
Meniscus injuries are prevalent in the city-state, primarily due to participation in sports, the ageing process, occupational risks, obesity, prior knee injuries, and genetic factors. Recognising these elements is essential for proper prevention and timely intervention. Orthopaedic surgeons are instrumental in diagnosing and managing meniscus injuries, providing ideal treatment options to facilitate patient recovery and mitigate the risk of further complications. Whether you are an athlete, a senior citizen, or engaged in a physically intensive occupation, understanding these risk factors can empower you to take proactive measures to safeguard your knee health.
Contact Dr Bryan Tan to take the first step towards restoring your knee health.
