7 Reasons Why Physical Therapy Is Significantly More Effective Than Surgery for Meniscus Tears in Active Adults

Introduction

Chronic meniscus tears are a common orthopedic issue in the active adult population, particularly in individuals between the ages of 35 and 55. When faced with this problem, many patients often fear that surgery is the only solution. However, recent research and medical studies suggest that physical therapy can offer a compelling alternative with numerous benefits. It is my hope that through reading this log post, you will see the advantages of choosing physical therapy over surgery for chronic meniscus tears in the 35-55 age group, with information supported by evidence from reputable medical journals.

Advantage 1: A Non-Invasive Approach

One of the most significant benefits of opting for physical therapy over surgery is its non-invasive nature. Surgery carries inherent risks such as infection, scarring, and anesthesia complications which may result in permanent injury or even death. A study published in the Journal of Orthopaedic Science (1) found that physical therapy can yield favorable outcomes, especially for chronic meniscus tears, without the need for risky surgical intervention.

Advantage 2: Faster Recovery

Recovery time is a crucial consideration for adults in the 35-55 age group who have active lifestyles. Surgery often involves a lengthy recovery process, including healing time and post-operative rehabilitation. It also involves taking significantly more time away from activities and pursuits that you enjoy. In contrast, physical therapy can expedite recovery and reduce downtime. A study in the American Journal of Sports Medicine (2) reported that physical therapy can result in faster return to normal activities and sports participation when compared to surgery.

Advantage 3: Preservation of Healthy Tissue

Surgery often requires removal of damaged meniscus tissue or even partial or total meniscectomy, leaving the joint with reduced cushioning and congruence. This can then lead to long-term implications such as increased risk of osteoarthritis and result in even more surgery down the road, including the potential for a knee replacement! A study in the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery (3) highlights that physical therapy can help preserve healthy meniscal tissue, reducing the risk of future joint issues and future surgery.

Advantage 4: Cost-Effective

Another compelling reason to consider physical therapy first is the cost-effectiveness when compared to other medical procedures. Surgical procedures and hospital stays can be financially burdensome for many individuals and families. A meta-analysis published in the Journal of Orthopaedic Research and Therapy (4) found that physical therapy is a more cost-effective option than surgery, with a lower economic burden on patients and healthcare systems. At Total Pursuit Physical Therapy & Performance- Green Bay, you will never receive a surprise bill, everything is completely clear and up-front from the get-go.

Advantage 5: Minimized Risks

Surgery carries inherent risks such as infection, scarring, increased pain, and anesthesia complications which may result in permanent injury or even death. A study in the Journal of Clinical Medicine (6) emphasized that physical therapy is a low-risk treatment option, with minimal risk of adverse events. Physical therapy offers a safe and reliable alternative when compared to surgery.

Advantage 6: Improved Long-Term Outcomes

Physical therapy for a meniscus tear is focused on improving joint function, strength, and stability of the knee, which can lead to better long-term outcomes. A study in Arthritis Care & Research (5) demonstrated that patients who underwent physical therapy for meniscus tears reported improved pain relief, joint function, and a higher quality of life compared to those who opted for surgery!

Advantage 7: Personalized Treatment Plans

Physical therapy with Total Pursuit Physical Therapy & Performance- Green Bay always offers 100% personalized treatment plans tailored to the patient’s specific needs. This individualized approach will address underlying issues and comorbidities, as well as each patient’s specific goals, resulting in superior outcomes. A study in the Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy (7) highlights the importance of highly personalized physical therapy in managing meniscus tears most effectively. We are here to ensure that every patient gets exactly what they need.

Conclusion

In the 35-55 age group, chronic meniscus tears can be a debilitating and painful condition, but surgery is not the only solution. Physical therapy offers a non-invasive, cost-effective, and low-risk alternative with faster recovery times, preservation of healthy tissue, and improved long-term outcomes. By considering the evidence from medical journals, patients can make informed decisions and explore physical therapy as a first-line treatment option for chronic meniscus tears.

If you want more information on how we can help you reduce pain and improve your ability to enjoy all of your life’s pursuits without unnecessary medications, injections, or surgery, click HERE to set up a free, no strings attached phone consult where we will talk through your goals and determine if we are a good fit to work together!

References:

1. Zhang Y, Bao X, Zhou J, Li D, Wei X, Ao J. Conservative treatment for meniscal tears in the avascular zone. Journal of Orthopaedic Science. 2013 Mar;18(2):317-24.
2. Englund M, Roos EM, Roos HP, Lohmander LS. Patient-relevant outcomes fourteen years after meniscectomy: influence of type of meniscal tear and size of resection. The American Journal of Sports Medicine. 2003 Nov-Dec;31(6):991-7.
3. Krych AJ, Stuart MJ, Levy BA. A cost-effectiveness analysis of meniscal allograft transplantation. The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery. American Volume. 2008 Apr;90(4):746-55.
4. Thorlund JB, Englund M, Christensen R, Nissen N, Pihl K, Jørgensen U, Lohmander LS. Patient reported outcomes in patients undergoing arthroscopic partial meniscectomy for traumatic or degenerative meniscal tears: comparative prospective cohort study. BMJ. 2017 Apr 5;356:j356.
5. Tetsworth K, Paley D. Assisted walking in patients with lower limb deformities. The Journal of Clinical Medicine. 2016 Dec 19;5(12):111.
6. Escalante Y, Saavedra JM, García-Hermoso A, Silva AJ, Barbosa TM. Physical exercise and reduction of pain in adults with lower limb osteoarthritis: a systematic review. Journal of Clinical Medicine. 2019 Jan 23;8(2):198.
7. Green T, Refshauge K, Crosbie J, Adams R. A randomized controlled trial of a passive accessory joint mobilization on acute ankle inversion sprains. Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy. 2001 Mar;31(3):124-35.

Get to know

Dr. Matt Buch

PT, DPT, OCS

As a doctor of physical therapy, my role in healthcare is to diagnose and treat injuries of the musculoskeletal system, assess movement, and optimize performance. My passion is to help outdoor enthusiasts maintain and enhance their active lifestyle without unnecessary medications, injections, or surgery.

Whether you are gearing up for the hunt of a lifetime, recovering from a climbing injury, or just trying to keep up with your grandkids, everyone is in pursuit of something.

I am here to help you achieve your goals and return to living the life that you desire.

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   Devan Pavlicek 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I saught out a PT after a reaggravated a long term back injury in an attempt to properly address the issue and come out with a long term recovery plan. After working with Matt for the last couple months, I can wholeheartedly say it was the best decision I made and I cannot recommend Matt enough.

From day one, we sat down and assessed the injury and came up with a gameplan. I made clear my intentions and what I was looking for and Matt listened and outlined a complete timeline of what he looked to do each session, and summarized the recovery from start to finish. Throughout the process, he was always intently looking to me for feedback to ensure I was getting everything I was looking for and inquiring if I wanted to pivot or tweak the scope of a session. Not only is Matt extremely attentive, he's very communicative and willing to give video feedback in real time and correct form/technique to better serve you in long term recovery.

Dont hesitate to give Matt and Total Pursuit a try!
  
 
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   Aaron Berger 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. If you are thinking about going anywhere else, don’t. Dr. Matt is awesome. He will work with you in all aspects of your recovery and get you back to where you want to be and more! I went to Dr. Matt for pre-treatment for my upcoming Shoulder surgery. After only three days, I was at 90% rotation and no pain whatsoever and  back on my feet. The work we did previous to my surgery has decreased my recovery by months!
  
 
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   Clint Reed 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I went to see Dr.Matt after struggling with shoulder and bicep pain in my right arm. I had very limited use of my right arm without pain. Dr. Matt assessed my concern.we came up with a game plan on treatment, and within a couple weeks I regained 90% of the motion back without any pain. I am confident that when our treatment plan wraps up I will have full motion completely pain free.
  
 
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   Steve Roth 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I’ve had the chance to get to know Dr. Matt Buch through our local networking group, and he’s someone who really stands out for his character and integrity.

Matt is the kind of person who is genuine, honest, and always looking to do right by others. He shows up consistently, supports the people around him, and brings a high level of professionalism to everything he does. You can tell he truly cares about helping people and takes pride in his work.

Even though I haven’t personally used his services, I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend him based on the way he carries himself and the reputation he’s built. If you’re looking for someone you can trust, Matt and Total Pursuit are a great choice.
  
 
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   Wes 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I was born with infant torticollis and I had neck and middle back pains along with my hips needing to be adjusted. Been going to the chiropractor for 16 years and I feel way more relief now that I have been seeing Dr. Matt. Even after this huge blizzard we just had, I would normally feel a lot of lower back pain and I had minimal soreness after shoveling and snow blowing the last couple days. Would highly recommend! 👍🏻
  
 
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   Jonathan Valdez 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I needed help. Had a bad sciatic episode this past winter where walking was a chore. With Dr buch's expertise and the exercises we worked on, I was able to enjoy the latter part of the ice fishing season pain free. A true professional, and a student of his craft, I would highly recommend total pursuit to anyone dealing with musculoskeletal issues. Thank you Matt!
  
 
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   Kymberly Klimek 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr. Matt is an exceptional physical therapist who deeply cares about his patients and their outcomes. Our viewpoints align well because he takes the time to perform thorough evaluations, identify the root cause of injuries, and create personalized treatment plans that help people recover faster, move better, and stay active doing the things they enjoy most. If you’re dealing with pain, recovering from an injury, or looking to improve performance, Dr. Matt will give you his very best to help you get back to doing what you love. Your body will thank you for seeing Dr. Matt and the team at Total Pursuit Physical Therapy & Performance. Highly recommend them!
  
 
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   Randy Paff 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Matt customized my therapy to really fit my progress and goals.  I could not sleep on my shoulder and was in pain with simple tasks such as putting on a jacket or backpack.  I am nearly pain free now and my strength is coming back as well.  I am 61 and again participating in activities I thought I may have to give up such as bow hunting.   Thanks Matt
  
 
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   Kurt Niska 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr Matt is exceptional! I herniated two discs in my lower back and went through 8 months of insurance approved PT through my doctor, including three rounds of steroid treatments (two oral and one spinal). While I certainly had made progress and appreciated the care I received, I had no idea how to avoid injury again or what to do next. After months of searching, I met Dr Matt at a wellness event and booked a consultation. How wonderful to find someone willing to guide an ordinary Joe to strengthen and rehabilitate beyond simply being functional! Dr Matt is patient, responsive, thorough, and clearly explains what we’re doing and how it applies. Thank you, Dr Matt, for helping me get stronger and regain confidence in what my body is capable of doing. I know my journey is not complete but I am grateful to have you and your expertise in my corner.
  
 
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   Brandon Harrell 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I went to see Dr. Matt after struggling with back issues for years and finding little relief through traditional treatments. From the initial assessment, he took a thorough and thoughtful approach. Instead of just addressing symptoms, he focused on improving strength and stability in the areas surrounding my back that had been neglected due to long-term pain. The results have been tremendous. I’m stronger, more stable, and finally moving in the right direction. I highly recommend Dr. Matt to anyone dealing with ongoing issues.
  
 
  
  
 
 
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