Meniscus lesion in the shoulder

Anatomy: Along the edge of the articular surface (cavitas glenoidalis) in the shoulder is a meniscus (labrum glenoidale). The meniscus is important to the stability of the shoulder.

Symptoms: Pain in the shoulder joint with certain movements. A sense of something “slipping” in the joint is common.

Acute treatment: Click here.

Examination: A suspicion of a meniscus lesion in the shoulder (“slipping sensation”) and lack of progress should always lead to a medical examination (Apprehesion test, relocation test). An impression of the meniscus can be formed with MR and ultrasound scan, but the lesion is best assessed using arthroscopy (telescopic examination of the shoulder joint), where treatment can be performed at the same time.

Treatment: A referral to arthroscopy is advised where there is a suspicion of a meniscus lesion and smooth progress is not achieved with relief and rehabilitation, where it will be possible to determine the diagnosis, and whether it is possible to stitch the meniscus in place or whether parts of it should be removed. The results of the operation in cases of isolated meniscus lesion are usually good (article).

Complications: If progress is not smooth, it should be considered whether the diagnosis is correct or whether complications have arisen. Amongst others the following should be considered:

• Rupture of the upper shoulder blade muscle
• Inflammation of the upper shoulder blade muscle
• Rupture of the lower shoulder blade muscle
• Rupture of the deltoid muscle
• Rupture of the biceps muscle
• Tendinitis of the biceps muscle
• Luxation in the joint between the shoulder blade and the collarbone
• Frozen shoulder
• Muscleinfiltrations
• Sprained shoulder (distorsio art.humeroscapularis)
• Impingement syndrome
• Partial luxation in the shoulder
• Nerve entrapment on the back of the shoulder blade