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Over time, an active lifestyle can lead to assorted injuries. Whether you like to base jump and break dance or just fish, golf, walk the dog or play with the kids, your body cannot handle the twists and turns that it used to when you were in your 20s — or even your 50s.
One of the most common physical injuries for older people is a torn meniscus — in most cases, more generically known as simply the knee.
Not only is it painful, but the joint is so critical that it’s nearly impossible to continue your favorite recreational activities unimpeded.
The dangers of opioids are well-documented, and you want to get back into action as soon as possible. Rather than full-on reconstructive surgery or simply observing the injury as it takes its time healing naturally, a middle ground could be the answer, according to a new study.
Researchers found that less-invasive procedures are an effective way to treat meniscal root tears in seniors. The data was presented last week at the annual meeting of the American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine.
Doctors looked at 48 patients, 30 of whom underwent a mensical root repair technique where two all-inside sutures were used to restore tension to the knee. Over two years, their recoveries were compared with the other 18 patients who did not receive an operation.
The results were clear. While barely any of those who received the procedure required more work on their knees, a full third of the patients who did not receive the procedure went on to require a much more invasive surgery known as a total knee arthroplasty.
However, it’s worth noting that those who had the minor operation reported higher pain scores during the two-year recovery period.
When you’re on the injured list, the last thing you want is to have your recovery delayed by additional surgeries.
For those who subscribe to the “no pain, no gain” theory of rehabilitation, this simple procedure might be the right treatment for your torn meniscus.
