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Read MoreA meniscus tear can make everyday movements, such as walking, bending or climbing stairs, painful and unstable. With the right treatment, most people regain comfort, flexibility and strength in their knee, allowing them to return to normal activity.
What Is a Meniscus Tear?
A meniscus tear is an injury to the cartilage cushioning your knee, which consists of two C-shaped pieces of cartilage—one on the inner side of the knee, called the medial meniscus, and one on the outer side, called the lateral meniscus. These act as shock absorbers, and a tear can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness. Meniscus tears often happen during activities involving knee twisting, like pivoting or squatting. However, degenerative tears can also develop gradually due to aging or repetitive stress. Risks include age, past knee injuries, and joint-straining actions.
There are several types of meniscus tears:
- Medial meniscus tear: Happens on the inner side of the knee and is the most common type
- Lateral meniscus tear: Affects the outer cartilage and is more frequent in athletes who perform cutting or pivoting motions
- Bucket handle meniscus tear: A severe form where a portion of the meniscus folds into the joint, often causing locking or restricted movement
- Meniscus flap tear: Involves a small flap of cartilage that may catch in the joint, leading to sharp pain or a catching sensation
Understanding the type and location of the tear helps determine the most effective treatment, which can range from Physical Therapy and rest to surgical repair for more complex cases.
What Are the Symptoms of a Meniscus Tear?
Symptoms of a torn meniscus can appear suddenly after an injury or develop gradually with overuse. The severity of pain and stiffness often depends on the type and location of the tear. Symptoms may include:
- Pain in the knee joint, especially when twisting or rotating
- Swelling that develops within the first 24 hours after injury
- Stiffness or difficulty in fully straightening the knee
- A catching, locking or popping sensation in the joint
- Feeling of instability or the knee giving way during movement
- Tenderness along the inner or outer side of the knee
How Is a Meniscus Tear Diagnosed?
Your doctor will assess your symptoms, examine your knee for swelling, tenderness, and range of motion, and may use special testing to check for signs of a meniscus injury. MRI or other imaging can confirm and locate the tear.
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Meniscus Tear Treatment Options
Ice and Medications
Applying ice several times a day and using anti-inflammatory medications can relieve pain and swelling during the early stages of recovery.
Physical Therapy
Rehabilitation focuses on restoring your range of motion, strengthening the surrounding muscles and improving stability. Therapy also helps reduce stiffness and prevent future knee injuries.
Bracing or Support
A knee brace can help stabilize the joint and provide additional support while walking or exercising, particularly in cases of minor or partial tears.
Injections
In some cases, corticosteroid or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections may be used to reduce inflammation and promote joint healing.
Post-Surgical Rehabilitation
After surgery, a personalized rehabilitation plan focuses on regaining flexibility, strength and function, with a gradual return to activity over several weeks to months.
