Hypermobile Meniscus

Question 1

What is lateral meniscus hypermobility (LMH)?

Answer 1

A rare condition which causes excessive motion at the lateral meniscus that can cause lateral knee pain or tenderness, locking or ROM limitation.

Question 2

What is the structure of the menisci and their function?

Answer 2

Crescent shaped, cartilaginous discs lying between the articular cartilage of the femur and tibia. Their functions include load transmission, shock absorbing, joint lubrication and stability.

Question 3

What is the causes of LMH?

Answer 3

• Congenital deficiency in capsular attachment
• Atraumatic injury to ligament attachments
• Trauma to ligament attachments

Question 4

What is the clinical presentation of LMH?

Answer 4

Lateral knee pain
Instability
Popping or locking of the knee in flexion or external rotation
Pain in the FABER position

Question 5

What is the diagnostic procedure for LMH?

Answer 5

Arthroscopy.

Question 6

What is management of LMH?

Answer 6

Surgery is recommended. PT post-op:
0-3 Weeks = no WB past 90*, inc. mobility to full extension.
3-6 Weeks = strengthening exercises, pain management.
6+ Weeks = Normal gait pattern, equal ROM and progress strengthening, return to sport.

Question 7

What are the return to sport guidelines?

Answer 7

Nil Pain, instability, popping, catching during deep flexion.

Question 8

What is the difference between the lateral and medial meniscus?

Answer 8

The lateral meniscus is smaller, thinner and more mobile than the medial meniscus. The lateral meniscus also has fewer anchoring stabilisers.