KUALA LUMPUR, March 13 – Knee injuries can happen to anyone, not just professional athletes. Whether you are an active runner, a weekend footballer, or someone who enjoys hiking, a misstep or sudden twist can lead to serious damage.
The most commonly injured parts of the knee are the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and the meniscus, a C-shaped piece of tough, rubbery cartilage that acts as a shock absorber between the shinbone and the thighbone.
Despite this, many people tend to brush off knee pain, hoping it will heal on its own.
Unfortunately, that is not always the case. “Ignoring an ACL or meniscus injury can lead to long-term instability, chronic pain, and even early arthritis,” warned Dr Abdul Razak Hussin, consultant orthopaedic and sports surgeon at Ara Damansara Medical Centre (ADMC).
So, how do these injuries occur, and what should you do if you suspect one?
How Do ACL and Meniscus Injuries Happen?
Knee injuries can occur in two ways, either through direct contact, such as when a footballer is tackled, or through non-contact incidents, like a sudden turn or twist while the foot remains planted.
When this happens, most people hear a distinct “pop” sound from the knee, followed by immediate swelling and pain. In most cases, the knee may become unstable, making it impossible to continue any activity.
Dr Abdul Razak explains that while some individuals with mild injuries may still be able to walk or play, the discomfort and instability will gradually worsen if left untreated.
Do You Need Surgery?
While minor injuries can sometimes heal with rehabilitation and physiotherapy, severe ACL and meniscus tears often require surgical intervention.
However, before deciding on surgery, doctors may use X-rays and MRIs to assess the extent of the damage.
“An X-ray is necessary to rule out fractures, especially an ACL avulsion fracture, which requires a different treatment approach. An MRI is useful when the diagnosis remains uncertain or if we suspect multiple ligament injuries,” shared Dr Abdul Razak.
“If the ACL or meniscus is damaged and left untreated, the knee becomes increasingly unstable, especially when walking downstairs, turning, or moving on uneven surfaces.
“Over time, this can lead to further meniscus damage, cartilage deterioration, and persistent pain,” he explained.
While some mild ACL or meniscus injuries can be managed with physiotherapy and strengthening exercises, severe cases often require surgery to prevent long-term complications.
“If patients opt for conservative treatment, they need to be aware of the risks. Without surgery, the knee may remain unstable, leading to repeated injuries and early-onset arthritis,” said Dr Abdul Razak.
What Happens During Surgery?
ACL reconstruction involves replacing the torn ligament with a tendon graft, typically from the hamstring or patellar tendon. For meniscus injuries, the treatment approach depends on the severity.
If possible, doctors will attempt a meniscus repair. However, if the damage is extensive, a partial meniscectomy is performed to remove the irreparable sections.
After surgery, most patients can start walking with crutches almost immediately. However, those undergoing meniscus repair may need to limit weight-bearing activities to protect the healing tissue.
A knee brace is also required for about six weeks to support the repaired structures.
How Long Until You Are Back in Action?
Recovery takes time, and rushing the process can lead to complications. Dr Abdul Razak advises that returning to high-impact sports should only be considered after a full year, allowing sufficient time for biological healing and muscle recovery.
He stresses the importance of post-surgical rehabilitation, explaining that modern advancements, such as bioactive scaffolds, platelet-rich plasma (PRP), and robot-assisted therapy, have significantly improved recovery outcomes.
These innovations help speed up the healing process and improve tissue regeneration,” he added.
“We also see promising results with stem cell therapy and virtual reality rehabilitation, which make physiotherapy sessions more effective and engaging for patients.”
“Rehabilitation is just as crucial as the surgery itself. With the latest innovations, we can now enhance healing and improve knee function more effectively than ever before,” he said.
What Should You Do If You Suspect An Injury?
Early intervention is key to avoiding long-term complications. Dr Abdul Razak advises individuals to be aware of symptoms such as persistent knee pain, swelling, and instability.
If these signs appear, seeking medical attention promptly can make all the difference.
“We can’t always prevent these injuries, as they often happen accidentally. However, understanding how they occur and recognising the symptoms early on can help individuals seek the right treatment before the damage worsens,” he explained.
Final Takeaway: Listen to Your Knees
Knee injuries should never be ignored. If you experience pain, swelling, or a feeling of instability, consulting a specialist as soon as possible could mean the difference between a full recovery and long-term complications.
Dr Abdul Razak emphasises that successful recovery is not just about surgery but also about understanding the injury, following proper rehabilitation, and taking the right steps toward healing.
“The goal is to restore function, prevent further damage, and get patients back to their daily activities pain-free,” he concluded.
