Torn Cartilage Introduction

A torn cartilage is a common rugby knee injury and involves damage to the Meniscus within the knee.

The cartilage is not actually damaged but as the Meniscus is composed of tough fibro cartilage, this common term was formed. The Menisci are C shaped and are found in pairs in each knee. . The menisci function is as a shock absorber and are especially useful during heavy weight bearing involved in rugby tackles, the menisci also help to relieve friction in knee joints.

The Menisci can get damaged when the knee is bent and there is a sudden twist of thigh and knee. The Menisci get squeezed with the force and a tear can occur.

Torn Cartilage Signs & Symptoms

There is minimal nerve supply to the meniscus which means that the player will not feel pain from the affected structure, However, the force of the twist will affect the Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL) and other surrounding coronary ligaments. These are the structures that hold the meniscus to the shin bone.

Damage to these ligaments will cause the players knee to swell up. If the meniscus is torn than a total recovery is very difficult due to the lack of nerve and blood supply to the area. The tear will cause the players knee to suddenly lock into a position as a flap is created that disturbs the normal mechanics of the knee. The players will also complain of a "clunking" sound when playing rugby or in some cases just walk down stairs. The long term implications of this are that the knee will eventually lose stability, buckle and give way.

Torn Cartilage Treatment

What you can do

If the tear in the Meniscus was small or the flap created does not disturb the mechanics of the knee then a return to rugby is possible once the swelling has subsided.

However, most rugby players may opt for surgical intervention to correct the flap created and prevent a loss of stability of the knee and possible buckling. The surgical technique often used is called an arthroscopy. An arthroscopy involves a surgeon inserting a small camera inside the knee then using a burring device to remove the flap and smooth over the meniscus. The players usually stays overnight and can begin rehabilitation with a physiotherapist soon after.

If the player opts for conservative treatment than he/she will be advised to use ice packs every 2-3 hours for 20 minutes. This will lessen the pain, reduce swelling and bleeding within the tissues.

It is understandable that the player may be anxious about his knee even after surgery or physiotherapy as there may be a fear of it giving way. A knee brace or support can provide the knee with additional stability until the player feels confident about recovering from the injury. There are knee braces that can offer optimum support without restricting moment of the knee and can be used during practice or a game.

Hydrotherapy or water exercises such as pool running provide excellent rehabilitation after a torn cartilage injury and will also help to keep up the fitness of the player without damaging the knee. Some players prefer to use a buoyancy aids which will enable the player to walk or jog in the water without touching the floor. It is important to note that hydrotherapy should only be commenced once the surgical scars have healed effectively.

Click here to view buoyancy jackets for water therapy

Torn Cartilage Prevention

Developing the strength of the quadriceps and hamstrings can help prevent a torn cartridge but the injury can still occur in contact sports such as rugby.

Rugby Rescue Recommends Knee Supports

5 Star Rating

Excellent medial and lateral support ideal for footballers. This wrap around design knee brace is suitable for cases of knee instability due to knee ligament injuries.

How does it work?

This high quality knee brace is lightweight and comfortable, with lock-stitch taped seams and fully trimmed edges for durability. The flexible spiral stays and dual criss-cross elastic straps create firm medial and lateral knee support.

The upper and lower Velcro fasteners act as 'anchors' and knee stabilisers to maintain maximum support. This provides support without compromising mobility and may be more suitable for those engaged in activities that would be overly compromised by a hinged support.

When can I use it?

*Extremely effective in relieving knee pain by taking the stress off knee ligaments that may be injured. *Perfect for injuries to theAnterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) or Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL).
*Also provides knee pain relief and knee support following a Cartilage injury or when there is mild Arthritis in the knee.
*Ideal knee brace when you require good knee support but maintain full movement.

Excellent medial and lateral support ideal for footballers. Multi-tiered, plush-lined elastic body with wraparound design.

This Knee sport strap is designed to simulate knee joint strapping techniques used to support the collateral knee ligaments and restrict joint rotation but still enable running