207. Meniscus Tears: Surgical and Non-Surgical Management w/ Airelle Giordano

Meniscus rehabilitation prioritizes joint preservation, shifting away from aggressive meniscectomy toward surgical repair to mitigate the long-term risk of osteoarthritis. Airelle Giordano, an associate professor at the University of Delaware, emphasizes that successful recovery relies on objective, criterion-based protocols rather than arbitrary timelines. Key clinical markers include managing joint effusion, restoring quadriceps strength—measured via isometric dynamometry—and normalizing gait mechanics. While traumatic tears in younger, active populations often necessitate surgical intervention, degenerative tears frequently respond well to conservative management unless mechanical symptoms like locking or catching persist. Effective rehabilitation requires clinicians to understand the specific surgical procedure performed and implement neuromuscular control training to ensure safe return-to-sport transitions. Ultimately, preventing future joint degeneration involves consistent load management and addressing underlying biomechanical deficits through targeted strength and conditioning.