All posts by Javier Granados

All Blogs, Basketball, Knee

Omri Casspi Torn Meniscus

Starting January 26th, Memphis Grizzlies’ forward Omri Casspi missed three consecutive games for right knee pain. An MRI was performed on February 1st leading to a diagnosis of a meniscus tear. He chose operative treatment. The expected time to return to play is 6 weeks. In surgery, the torn part of the meniscus is usually removed.

The meniscus is a cushion between the femur (thigh bone) and tibia (leg bone). The meniscus changes with age and arthritis. It can also be injured, usually with a forceful twist. Pain from meniscus injuries usually resolves without surgery, but it can take many months. Sometimes a piece of the meniscus moves into an unhelpful position and surgery can be helpful.

When the meniscus is excised, the small arthroscopy scars only need a few weeks to heal. After that, players can return as soon as their knee is comfortable and mobile enough to be effective.

Baseball, Pitcher's Elbow

Astros’ Lance McCullers Jr. Recovering after Tommy John Surgery

Houston Astros pitcher Lance McCullers Jr. will spend the entire 2019 MLB season on the disabled list (DL) after having Tommy John surgery to reconstruct the ulnar collateral ligament. Symptoms of elbow discomfort began on August 4th, 2018 and was originally diagnosed as a right forearm strain that led to 6 weeks on the DL (See Pitcher’s Elbow for more details). His particular problem was described as“pitching through some stuff” (increased elbow discomfort) during his return. Diagnostic tests included an MRI and postseason physical. Treatment is described as gradual elbow/forearm strengthening and rest/ice/compression rehab to work towards a normal pitching routine. Since surgery on November 6th, 2018, McCullers is currently passing all medical clearance checkpoints (according to medical staff) and is expected to make a full recovery. The plan for return to play is spring training for the 2020 season.