Description

Hey everyone, it’s Dr. Fred Bagares. In today’s episode, I’m diving into a common clinical situation that led to a bigger question: What are we really trying to accomplish with treatment? A patient with a classic meniscus tear asked me something simple but powerful—“Does any of this actually fix the meniscus?”

That one question opened up a whole conversation about how we frame injuries, treatments, and success. Is surgery always the fix? Or should we be thinking bigger—pain relief, improved motion, long-term function?

This episode isn’t just about knees. It’s about how we define problems, what counts as success, and how to shift from a “parts replacement” mindset to one that values movement and sustainability.

⏱️ Episode Highlights & Navigation

• [00:31] – Case study: Young patient with acute meniscus tear
• [01:57] – “Does this actually fix the meniscus?” and the problem vs. solution dilemma
• [03:00] – One-and-done conditions vs. musculoskeletal reality
• [04:49] – What are the real goals: pain, range of motion, stability
• [05:44] – Degenerative meniscus tears: common, normal, and not always symptomatic
• [06:00] – Why joint replacements aren’t a clean slate if lifestyle doesn’t change
• [07:52] – Pain relief ≠ long-term improvement: Don’t stop at symptom resolution
• [09:12] – I’m not anti-surgery—I’m pro-movement
• [10:03] – Respecting patient autonomy and informed decision-making
• [11:01] – Breaking free from the insurance model and reclaiming patient-centered care
• [12:04] – Regenerative medicine: exciting but misunderstood
• [12:29] – Why surgical and conservative failures often stem from the same issue
• [13:04] – Ask yourself: What is the real goal of treatment? What opportunity is it creating?

Thank you for spending your time with me on the Talking Rehab Podcast. My goal is to challenge how we all think about rehab—not just fixing problems, but truly empowering movement and health.

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