Question - Lateral Release Surgery (returning to paramedic job)

by STREET MEDIC
(NEW JERSEY)

I'm a 15 year veteran paramedic and I had a posterior horn tear in 2006. 25% of my meniscus was removed and I never felt 100% better post surgery. I was out of work for nearly a year.

3 Months after my return to full-duty I was re-injured to the same knee (Again). I began feeling and hearing a bunch of popping (like in the knuckles) Constantly, and weakness along with destroying my lower back.

I'm going for a medial meniscus repair and lateral release. As explained it seems worse than my 1st surgery, to the point I'm concerned about being permanently disabled from my career as a paramedic.

A brief job description - lifting patients over 200-300lbs on average up and down stairs, bending, crawling, running and long term standing, etc. I've been told to start looking for a desk job, my love of the job has always been out in the field. I guess my number is up?

What is your opinion, is this a career ending injury?

Thanks for your time!

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Question - Lateral Release Surgery (returning to paramedic job)

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Aug 08, 2008
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A desk may be next...
by: Bart - SII

I wouldn't normally think that a lateral release and meniscus repair would lead to the need for a desk job and career change, however, given the way that you seem to have responded from your previous meniscectomy, it sounds like you are probably better off moving into a job that is less demanding on the knee.

Most of this will depend on what they find once the get inside the joint, and of course how well you respond to the surgery and to the rehab afterwards - Rehab and lots of strengthening / flexibility work after surgery will be imperative if you want any chance to get back to working in the field.

Comment back with other questions.