A torn meniscus frequently requires surgery, but this isn’t always the case. If you have been diagnosed with a tear in one of the C-shaped pieces of cartilage that helps to cushion the knee, it’s important to thoroughly explore your treatment options. Meniscus tears do not heal on their own, but many patients can do just fine without surgery by improving their movement patterns and strengthening the leg.   

Physical therapy for a torn meniscus can be a highly effective form of treatment that helps to promote the natural healing process and improve the functioning of the knee. To help patients in Franklin, Wisconsin, achieve these goals, Franklin Rehabilitation has two state-of-the-art clinics right here in town. We believe that patient education is an important part of delivering quality care, which is why we’re happy to share the following information. 

Working with a physical therapist to overcome a torn meniscus

Physical therapy is a natural system of techniques that use the body itself to help patients overcome symptoms and improve functioning while dealing with a wide range of injuries and conditions. This means that physical therapists need to be experts in the function and highly interconnected nature of the body. For a torn meniscus, therapists will typically first ask about pain and other symptoms while also performing an evaluation of biomechanics in an attempt to identify movement issues. 

Using this information, a custom treatment program can be mapped out that uses physical therapy techniques to accomplish the following: 

• Increase knee range of motion
• Address pain and swelling
• Strengthen the muscles and soft tissue around the knee
• Improve biomechanics and posture to relieve pressure on the knee

By working with a therapist in the clinic as well as using recommended at-home therapies and exercises, patients can very often improve the functioning of their knee and relieve pain while the progress of the injury is monitored. 

Knee injury physical therapy right in Franklin, WI

At our clinic in Franklin, we’re passionate about helping patients from all walks of life, from athletes to retirees, overcome pain and injury to get back to a healthy and active lifestyle. If you have a torn meniscus, we’ll help you thoroughly explore physical therapy to give you the best chance of overcoming this condition without the need for a surgical procedure. 

To start your treatment journey, contact us today. We’ll be happy to schedule your initial appointment.