Internal tibial torsion is associated with medial meniscus posterior horn tears

Abstract

Purpose Risk factors for meniscal tears play a decisive role in deciding on treatment and rehabilitation. The purpose of this study was to investigate the efect of tibial rotation on medial meniscus posterior horn tears (MMPHTs). Methods This study is a retrospective case-control study. Fifty patients with meniscal tears and 57 knees with intact meniscus were compared. Tibial rotation, femoral version, tibial slope and knee varus were measured in each participant. Knee osteoarthritis was classiied according to the Kellgren-Lawrence classiication. Demographic characteristics were noted. Results There were signiicant diferences in the mean tibial torsion angles and mean mechanical axes between the groups. The mean tibial rotation and mean mechanical axis were 26.3° ± 6.7 and 3.7° ± 2.7 in the MMPHT group and 30.3° ± 8.4 and 2.05° ± 2.7 in the control group, respectively (p = 0.008, p = 0.002). ConclusionThe current retrospective study has shown that tibial rotation is markedly reduced in patients with MMPHTs. Although the actual mechanism is not clear, the internal torsion of the tibia causes a decrease in the foot progression angle and increases the knee adduction moment, which in turn increases the medial tibial contact pressure. Internal torsion of the tibia, such as knee varus, may play a role in the aetiology of MMPHTs by this way. Whilst there was a signiicant diference in the mean varus and tibial torsion between the groups, there was no signiicant diference in the mean femoral version or tibial slope. Level of evidence III.

Excessive Knee Internal Rotation during Grand Plié in Classical Ballet Female Dancers

“…In a study by Park et al [ 49 ], the risk of ACL injury was investigated in athletes engaged in pivoting activities, measuring knee joint laxity and rotational range in extreme internal and external tibial rotation. They noted significant differences in the maximum passive external tibial rotation between males and females, with excessive tibial rotation being identified as a major risk factor for proprioception loss and injuries like meniscus tears [ 49 , 50 , 51 ]. Supporting these findings, LaPrade and Burnett [ 52 ] characterized knee injuries as resulting from sudden, excessive twisting loads applied to a flexed, planted knee, leading to lateral femoral condyle impingement.…”

Advanced Hydrogel Material for Meniscus Repair

“…[ 39 ] The medial joint capsule is less mobile and, hence, more susceptible to injuries during strenuous activities. [ 40 ] The lateral meniscus is circular in shape, with a wide central portion and well‐proportioned anterior and posterior horns. [ 41 ] It has a small circumference, but an extensive area.…”