User:Kqmiranda/sandbox

Devices and Programs
Some studies have discovered devices and programs that can help predict and avoid possible meniscus tears as well as other knee related injuries.

MRI Use
One study took MRI images of 24 college-aged gymnasts. The results showed a grade 3 abnormality to the knee that was highly related to having a lateral meniscus tear.

Biodex Dynamometer
Another study, which focused on rehabilitating meniscus injuries, put their patients through an isometric test using a Biodex Dynamometer. The test was able to assess their quadriceps versus their hamstring strength. The athletes were able to return to their sports if they were able to pass a running and functional training program. The MRI screening and Biodex Dynamometer test are good ways to predict an injury because of the identified risk factors; therefore, preventing a meniscus tear. For example, an athlete performs an isometric test on the Biodex Dynamometer and the results show that there are muscle imbalances between the hamstrings and the quadriceps; injuries could arise. If muscle imbalances were identified early on, the athlete would be able to correct it through various exercises to prevent possible knee injuries. Although Heckmann, T.P. et al were able to compare the hamstrings and quadriceps, an isometric test may not be suitable for all situations because it is expensive to run and an isometric test takes a little more time than other tests because it is only able to analyze one muscle group per test. A similar test that could be used to predict and prevent a knee injury would be an isokinetic test because it measures the amount of torque produced at various speeds for both the quadriceps and hamstrings.