

207. Meniscus Tears: Surgical and Non-Surgical Management w/ Airelle Giordano
10 snips Jul 1, 2025
In this discussion, Airelle Giordano, an associate professor and director of clinical services at the University of Delaware, shares her expertise on meniscus rehab. She breaks down the complexities of managing traumatic versus degenerative tears and the debate between surgical and non-surgical options. Insights from the DREAM trial emphasize the importance of personalized rehabilitation. Airelle also highlights strategies for preventing injuries in youth soccer, advocating for tailored injury prevention programs. Tune in for a comprehensive look at knee health!
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Meniscus Key Functions
- The meniscus acts as a shock absorber, joint stabilizer, and load distributor in the knee.
- It also aids in joint nutrition and proprioception, affecting knee stability and sensory function.
Traumatic vs Degenerative Tears
- Traumatic meniscal tears occur acutely and often in younger individuals, while degenerative tears develop gradually with age.
- Rehab and surgery considerations differ significantly between these types.
Prioritize Meniscus Repair Early
- For younger individuals with acute meniscal tears, prioritize repair over removal to preserve knee health.
- Early orthopedic evaluation is important to determine repairability and avoid long-term osteoarthritis risks.