10 Minute Tip #16: Should You Have Meniscus Surgery - Yes or No?

10 Minute Tip #16: Should You Have Meniscus Surgery - Yes or No?

Author: Dr. Rori Alter, PT, SSC, PRSCC February 28, 2023 Duration: 15:42

Doctors often recommend a "simple" arthroscopic knee surgery to address knee pain associated with meniscus tears. And athletes often believe that because their meniscus is torn, they will always have pain and need surgery. However, in most cases, we recommend you don't have knee surgery for simple meniscal tears for a variety of reasons.

 

If you've ever wondered if a knee scope is the answer to your knee pain with the diagnosis of a meniscus tear, we urge you to think again. 

 

Many people do not realize that:

  • The majority of people without knee pain have meniscus tears

  • Surgery can actually cause more long term pain, symptoms, and dysfunction

  • The long term outcomes of surgery versus conservative treatment are not typically better

 

In this episode of the PRS Podcast we discuss:

→ When and why not to have surgery

→ When surgery can actually make your knee pain worse

→ Signs and symptoms surgery is the better option

 

It's entirely possible to overcome a meniscus tear and continue to barbell train or powerlift. While the process seems slower to rehabilitate the knee without surgery, it's actually not and you'll be able to train without interruption.

 

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Get in touch with the show!

Web: https://www.progressiverehabandstrength.com

Email: podcast@progressiverehabandstrength.com

Rori IG: @rorimegan_prs

Alyssa IG: @alyssahope_prs


Hosted by Dr. Rori Alter and Dr. Alyssa Haveson, Progressive Rehab & Strength is a conversation for those who take lifting seriously, whether for sport or for life. Both hosts are practicing physical therapists and certified strength coaches with deep roots in powerlifting, giving them a unique, dual-perspective on the body under load. This podcast digs into the nuanced intersection of rehabilitation and performance, moving beyond generic advice. You’ll hear practical discussions on programming for longevity, managing training around injuries, and navigating the technical demands of the barbell lifts. The aim is to strip away confusion and provide actionable insights that help athletes and coaches build resilient, sustainable careers-both in the gym and in their professional practices. It’s a resource for critical thinkers who want their approach to strength to be informed by both clinical expertise and hard-earned experience on the platform. Tune in for a blend of science, real-world application, and straight talk from two professionals who live in this space every day.
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