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The two menisci inside the knee joint are crescent-shaped fibrocartilage pads responsible for shock absorption and joint stabilization. Meniscus injuries are common among athletes, manual laborers, and those with degenerative knee conditions. Acute tears caused by twisting or chronic damage from overuse may lead to persistent pain, swelling, and limited mobility if not treated promptly, and can even progress to osteoarthritis.
Western Countries
In the United States, more than 600,000 people seek medical attention each year for meniscus tears, primarily among athletes and middle-aged to elderly individuals. Germany and the United Kingdom also report high rates of knee joint injuries, with meniscus tears ranking among the most common due to frequent sports activities and repetitive knee stress.
Southeast Asian Countries
In China, Thailand, the Philippines, Malaysia, and Indonesia, the incidence of meniscus injuries has risen significantly in recent years, especially in aging urban populations. In Indonesia, more than 300,000 cases are reported annually, with some patients developing chronic knee dysfunction due to improper treatment, imposing a substantial health burden.
1. Impaired Joint Stability
The meniscus acts as the "shock absorber" of the knee. Once torn or detached, knee stability decreases, often resulting in knee buckling and unsteady walking, especially noticeable when climbing stairs or bearing weight.
2. Persistent Joint Pain
Initially, there may be only mild discomfort, but as the injury worsens, persistent pain develops, particularly aggravated after prolonged walking or standing. In severe cases, night pain may interfere with sleep.
3. Joint Effusion and Swelling
The injured knee often develops an inflammatory response, leading to joint effusion with swelling, tenderness, and even restricted flexion and extension, making daily activities difficult.
4. Increased Risk of Degenerative Joint Disease
Untreated meniscus injuries accelerate knee wear and tear, greatly increasing the risk of osteoarthritis. This results in irreversible cartilage damage, and in severe cases may require joint replacement, impacting lifelong mobility.
Stem Cell Therapy
Stem cell therapy has emerged as a novel treatment for meniscus injuries in recent years. By injecting mesenchymal stem cells into the knee joint cavity, it promotes self-repair of meniscus tissue, improves the local microenvironment, and delays degeneration, making it an optimal option for early- and mid-stage patients.
① Promotes regeneration of cartilage and meniscus tissue
② Improves knee joint microcirculation and metabolism
③ Relieves chronic pain and swelling
④ Reduces the need for surgery and prolongs natural joint lifespan
⑤ Low surgical risk, short recovery period, suitable for athletes and elderly patients
1. Arthroscopic Repair
Minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery can directly suture torn meniscus tissue, preserving the original structure. It is an important method for treating tears below the midline. Recovery is fast with minimal trauma, but requires careful assessment of tear location and blood supply.
2. Partial Meniscectomy
For severe or irreparable tears, arthroscopic partial removal may be performed. By excising fragmented areas, symptoms such as mechanical irritation and locking can be relieved, though long-term outcomes may include accelerated joint degeneration.
3. Physical Rehabilitation and Functional Training
Physical therapy such as cold compresses, magnetic therapy, and electrical stimulation can reduce inflammation. Quadriceps strengthening and balance training improve knee stability, aiding recovery after surgery or relieving symptoms in non-surgical cases.
4. Medication-assisted Treatment
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are the first choice for relieving pain and inflammation, though long-term use should be avoided. Hyaluronic acid injections or glucosamine supplements may also help reduce joint wear.
5. Traditional Chinese Medicine Interventions
Approaches such as acupuncture, massage, and herbal steaming help regulate knee circulation and relieve pain. Some patients benefit from integrated Chinese and Western treatments for better outcomes.
Experts at United Life International Medical Center emphasize that meniscus injuries should not be ignored. Early detection and use of modern treatments such as stem cell therapy can effectively slow joint degeneration and prevent the need for joint replacement. Symptom-targeted treatment and standardized rehabilitation management are key to maintaining knee joint health.
