Revisiting My Old Meniscus Tear: Should I Pursue Surgery Again?
At 31 years old, I find myself grappling with an old meniscus tear that has been lingering since my injury. Although I was advised to undergo surgery and completed all necessary assessments, including an MRI, I ultimately never went through with the procedure. The reasons were manifold—most notably, a move to a different country where healthcare costs are rather prohibitive. During the initial stages of my injury, I managed to cope fairly well, especially since I was in good physical condition and enjoyed running. However, two years post-injury, I made a careless mistake while using a trampoline, which led to a reinjury of my knee. This particularly foolish incident left me unable to walk for several days. This further aggravated my condition, particularly instilling a sense of fear about my knee's stability. That fear contributed to a weight gain issue, with my highest weight reaching 75 kg (approximately 165 lbs) at just 155 cm tall. Fortunately, the pain subsided after a while, but my knee constantly reminded me of its unsettled state. It would suddenly feel as though it was dislocating or locking up—usually triggered by something as trivial as turning sharply or even sitting on a high chair in an awkward position. Realizing the need for change, I committed myself to improving my health over the last seven to eight months and successfully shed 10 kg, bringing my current weight down to 65 kg (about 143 lbs). I am eager to incorporate strength training into my fitness routine, but the fear of my knee locking up remains a concern. Fortunately, my financial situation has improved, and I am considering the possibility of reassessing my candidacy for surgery once I return home from a six-month business trip. I have a couple of inquiries that I'd appreciate your advice on: 1. Is it safe for me to engage in strength training exercises? 2. Considering the timeline since my original injury, am I still a viable candidate for surgery? Thank you very much for your assistance!
Answers (1)
7/4/2025, 8:40:39 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's great to hear that you've made a commitment to improving your health! Managing a prior meniscus tear can be challenging, especially after reinjury. Let's address your concerns regarding strength training and the possibility of surgery.
Main Points
- Strength Training Safety: It can be safe for you to engage in strength training, but it's important to proceed cautiously.
- Surgery Candidacy: You may still be a candidate for surgery, but a thorough reassessment by a healthcare provider is vital.
Explanation
- Strength Training: Building strength can help stabilize your knee and reduce the fear of it locking up. However, the key is to focus on safe exercises that won't put excessive strain on your knee.
- Surgical Consideration: Given the symptoms you've described, such as locking and instability, these could mean that the current condition of your knee might benefit from surgical intervention. The timeline since your initial injury does not automatically disqualify you from surgery; your current symptoms and functional limitations are more telling.
Next Steps
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Start with Functional Exercises: Before diving into an intense strength training program, consider starting with low-impact exercises, such as:
- Quadriceps and hamstring strengthening: Simple leg raises, straight leg lifts, and squats (ensuring proper form).
- Balance exercises: Activities like standing on one leg and using a balance board can enhance stability.
- Range of motion exercises: Gentle stretching to maintain mobility and reduce stiffness.
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Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to how your knee feels during and after these activities. If you experience increased pain or locking sensations, take a step back and modify the activity.
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Consult a Physical Therapist: Before resuming intense strength training, working with a professional can provide tailored guidance to strengthen your knee safely.
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Reassess for Surgery When Appropriate: Once you return from your trip, schedule a consultation with an orthopedic specialist. They can perform a thorough evaluation and determine if surgery is the best option based on current knee function and your activity goals.
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Consider Gradual Progression: As you gain confidence and strength, you can gradually increase the intensity and variety of exercises while staying attuned to how your knee reacts.
Your proactive approach to your health is commendable, and with the right steps, you can work towards both fitness goals and knee stability. If you have any more questions or need further guidance, feel free to ask.
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