It's been three years since I tore my cruciate ligaments skiing. The damage: a complete, irreparable tear of my outer cruciate ligament, a partial tear of the inner one that has healed, and a meniscus tear. My clinic advised skipping surgery in favor of physiotherapy to assess how the injury fits my lifestyle.
Three years later, I've managed remarkably well. Pre-pandemic, I hit Basic-Fit three times a week on the treadmill and bike. We moved homes and renovated for months—all without major setbacks. I can squat and kneel again. Until two weeks ago. Installing our new floor didn't hurt much at first. But after a weekend sliding on my knees, my knee protested loudly.
In hindsight, how could I be so careless? I know about my meniscus tear. You adapt and forget—until it bites back. Now, I'm hunting for a reliable brace. I own two: a bulky one from Austria and a basic model for minor issues. Neither cuts it now.
I need solid support for high-demand moments, like sports or my current recovery. Squatting or kneeling? No way—too much swelling, plus meniscus pain.
Finding equilibrium between rest and movement is crucial. Total downtime helps no one. I seek a sustainable, active routine without overdoing it. After desk days writing, rising is tough; initial steps are limp. A few paces in, it eases.
Walking feels right once moving, despite shaky starts. But two hours? That irritates it. Running never suited and is off-limits now. Walking is my sole workout.
Will my knee rebound in weeks, feeling normal again? Or drag on for months, a setback?
Anyone with meniscus tear experience? How was recovery? Still dealing, and for how long? Share below.
