Dr. Shanice Carrinton, a Doctor of Physical Therapy, sheds light on the intricacies of meniscus injuries, focusing on two prominent basketball players: Joel Embiid and Karl-Anthony Towns.
Exploring the Meniscus: An Anatomy Primer
Before delving into the specifics of injuries and treatments, it's essential to understand the role of the meniscus in the knee joint. Acting as a shock absorber, the meniscus is crucial in distributing forces and maintaining stability during movement. This fibrous cartilage structure also contributes to lubricating the joint and enhancing proprioception, the body's awareness of its position in space.
Treatment Options: Conservative vs. Surgical
When faced with a meniscus injury, the treatment approach varies based on factors such as the severity of the injury and the individual's activity level. Dr. Shanice Carrington highlights two primary treatment paths:
Conservative Rehabilitation:
- This approach focuses on strengthening the muscles surrounding the knee to alleviate pain and improve function.
- Exercises targeting the quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes are emphasized to provide stability and support to the knee joint.
Surgical Interventions:
- In cases where conservative measures prove insufficient, surgical options may be considered.
- Two main surgical procedures are commonly employed:
- Debridement (Meniscectomy): Involves arthroscopic removal of damaged tissue to smooth the meniscus surface. However, this procedure may reduce cushion size and increase the risk of arthritis over time.
- Repair: Utilizes sutures and anchors to mend torn meniscal tissue, preserving its integrity and function.
Recovery and Rehabilitation: Navigating the Road to Healing
The path to recovery following a meniscus injury can vary significantly depending on the chosen treatment approach and the extent of the damage. Shenise Kon provides valuable insights into the post-operative care for both debridement and repair procedures:
- Debridement: Patients typically experience a quicker recovery with no specific restrictions on weight-bearing or knee movement post-surgery. Rehabilitation focuses on gradually restoring strength and mobility.
- Repair: While meniscal repair offers the advantage of preserving the meniscus's function, it entails a more extended recovery period. Patients must adhere to strict rehabilitation protocols, including limitations on knee bending and weight-bearing activities to promote optimal healing.
Impact on Basketball Players: Insights from Embiid and Towns' Cases
The video highlights the experiences of two notable basketball players, Joelle Embiid and Karl-Anthony Towns, who recently underwent treatment for meniscus injuries:
- Joel Embiid: Having undergone a meniscectomy in February, Embiid is expected to return to play by the playoffs in April. However, his previous knee surgeries may influence his recovery timeline and performance on the court.
- Karl-Anthony Towns: Towns faced a lateral meniscus injury, necessitating repair surgery in March. Although his recovery may extend beyond the current season, he is anticipated to return to the game in due time fully.
About Dr. Shanice Carrington
Shanice is an outpatient orthopedic / neurology therapist in New York. Originally from Long Island, NY, she graduated from the Stony Brook University Physical Therapy Doctorate Program in 2019. She is Orthopedic board certified (OCS), Parkinson’s LSVT certified – and a certified vestibular therapist (Duke Emory Cert.). Shanice has also taken two HSS 1-year residencies — and still holds the record in both shot put and discus at her high school (#tracknation stand up). Big ups and much respect to Shanice for her excellence. And Happy Friday to you and yours. Cheers and enjoy #drshanicereports