Los Angeles Lakers point guard Lonzo Ball, was diagnosed with left knee meniscus at the end of the 2017- 2018 season.
The knee meniscus is a piece of cartilage that acts as a “shock absorber” between the thigh bone and shinbone. They are strong enough to help cushion the joint and keep it stable. The cushion is sometimes torn by an awkward and forceful twist of the knee. It’s important to distinguish traumatic injury of the meniscus from the types of changes and fraying that occur with normal aging (part of arthritis). Both types of problems are described as “tears” so it can be confusing.
A torn meniscus might be felt as a sudden pop or just a sore knee after playing. Although x-rays do not show meniscus tears, they can rule out other knee problems that cause similar symptoms. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)–a way to image the non-bone structures in the joint is used to diagnose this injury.
Treatment for a traumatic meniscus tear in a young adult athlete depends on the size and location of the tear. It’s possible to treat this injury non-surgically with stretches and pain relievers. Many feel better with time and non-specific supportive measures (e.g. ibuprofen). Exercises help keep the knee flexible and the muscles conditioned. Surgery is considered when there is a large loose fragment of meniscus that is getting stuck between the bones of the knee joint. The knee may get stuck or pop with movement–sometimes referred to as “mechanical symptoms.” Surgery usually just removes these fragments. Once in a while, a very large tear of the meniscus as it’s the thickest part near the edge of the knee joint is repaired and protected so that it might heal.
With or without surgery to resect a fragment, players usually feel well enough to return to play after about 4 to 6 weeks. If the meniscus is repaired it needs to be protected for 6 to 12 months. Lonzo Ball chose to have an injection of platelet-rich plasma. This is an experimental treatment based on the rationale that this type of plasma is loaded with growth factors that aid recovery. There is no evidence that this actually occurs. There is much more marketing than evidence behind these types of shots. If you have a problem with your meniscus, you should be cautious about having this type of shot or any other type of experimental treatment. It’s not clear that they are better than your body’s natural healing. There is definitely risk, discomfort, cost, and inconvenience. Lonzo Ball is expected to play when season starts.
This blog was written by Ramla Kiyar and David Ring.