A meniscus tear is an injury to the cartilage cushion that absorbs shock inside the knee, between the thigh bone and the shin bone. This guide explains the symptoms and causes of meniscus tears, how they are diagnosed and the treatment options.
Note: This information is general. Confirming a tear needs an in-person examination and often an MRI, and treatment is decided by your doctor for each case.
Symptoms of a meniscus tear
Symptoms may include the following, and they can resemble other knee problems:
- Knee pain, often along one side of the joint
- Swelling that develops gradually after the injury
- A feeling of catching or locking
- Clicking or grinding
- Difficulty fully straightening the knee
- A feeling that the knee gives way
Causes of a tear
A meniscus tears for two main kinds of reason:
- A sudden twist of the knee during sport or when changing direction
- A fall, or squatting under heavy load
- Gradual wear of the cartilage with age
- An injury that accompanies an ACL tear
Diagnosis
The doctor asks how the injury happened and examines the knee with special movements to locate the pain. An X-ray rules out other causes, and an MRI shows the meniscus and the type of tear.
Treatment options
Non-surgical treatment
Some tears, especially small ones or those caused by wear, may improve without surgery.
- Rest and activity modification
- Cold packs wrapped in cloth to ease pain and swelling
- Physiotherapy and thigh muscle strengthening
- A brace or walking stick when needed
- Knee injections in selected cases
Surgical treatment
Surgery may be suggested if the tear causes catching, locking or ongoing pain despite non-surgical care. It is usually done by knee arthroscopy through small incisions, and the surgeon may stitch the meniscus if it can be repaired or remove the damaged part. The choice depends on the type and site of the tear, your age and your activity.
Recovery and rehabilitation
Recovery depends on the treatment and on what was done at surgery. Its length varies from person to person and is set by the surgeon after assessment. Rehabilitation is an important part; see knee rehabilitation.
- Controlling pain and swelling
- Restoring knee movement
- Strengthening the muscles around the joint
- Balance and walking exercises
- A gradual return to activity and sport
When to see the doctor
See an orthopedic surgeon if:
- The knee catches or locks and will not straighten
- You heard a pop at the time of injury and swelling followed
- Pain or swelling persists
- The knee feels like it gives way
- Pain affects your walking