The meniscus works like a cushion for the knee, and a tear of the meniscus is one of the common knee injuries. Many people with a meniscus tear do not need surgery, while others with a meniscus tear do need surgery. Here is how you can find out which situation you are in.
Each knee has two C-shaped pieces of cartilage called menisci that protect the joint and help it stay strong. These pieces can be damaged quickly, usually when someone twists their knee while their foot is planted on the ground. They can also break down over time as a person gets older. Injuries happen a lot in sports. They also happen to older people because of regular daily activities.
Symptoms
- Pain along the inner or outer side of the knee
- Swelling that develops over hours or a day or two
- Catching, clicking, or a sense of something in the way
- The knee is locking, so you cannot fully straighten it
- The knee giving way
- Stiffness and difficulty squatting or twisting
How it is diagnosed
I went to see a doctor who examined the knee and performed movement tests on the knee. The doctor used an MRI to show the meniscus and other parts such as ligaments. This helps plan the treatment for the knee. X-rays were taken to check for arthritis and fractures in the knee. The goal is to decide whether the tear explains the knee symptoms.
Treatment options
| Option | When it is considered |
|---|---|
| Rest, ice, activity changes, and physiotherapy | The first approach for many tears, particularly small or degenerative ones, or with mild symptoms |
| Medicines and injections | To control pain while rehabilitating, as advised by your doctor |
| Arthroscopic repair | Keyhole surgery to stitch the tear is considered for certain tears, especially in younger, active people where the blood supply allows healing. |
| Arthroscopic trimming (partial meniscectomy) | Keyhole removal of the torn, unstable portion when the tear cannot be repaired and is causing mechanical symptoms |
| Addressing associated injuries | A meniscus tear may occur alongside a ligament injury, such as the ACL, which affects the plan. |
Recovery
- Early phase
Protect the knee, control swelling, and regain gentle movement. After a repair, weight-bearing is usually restricted for a period set by your surgeon.
- Strengthening
Physiotherapy rebuilds thigh and hip strength and balance.
- Return to activity
A staged return to sport or heavy work as strength and movement allow, guided by your surgeon and physiotherapist.
Questions for your surgeon
Bring these to your consultation.
- What type of tear do I have, and does it explain my symptoms?
- Is it repairable?
- What happens if I try rehabilitation first?
- What are the risks of surgery, and the recovery for my type?
- Are there other injuries in my knee?
Frequently asked questions
Q: Can a torn meniscus heal on its own?
Some tears, small ones, near the edge where blood flow is good can heal over time with proper rehabilitation. Others don’t heal all and might require surgery.
Q: Is surgery always needed for a locked knee?
A locked knee usually needs attention from a specialist because a torn piece of tissue might be stopping the knee from moving properly. A locked knee usually needs attention from a specialist because a torn piece of tissue might be stopping the knee from moving properly.
Q: Will I get arthritis after a meniscus tear?
If the meniscus is injured, the chance of developing arthritis goes up. That is why doctors often try to keep the meniscus intact whenever they can.
Q: Can I keep exercising?
Ask a doctor. Gentle, non-twisting activity is often fine. The right advice depends on the tear.
Q: Can I get an opinion on my MRI?
Yes. Our partner orthopaedic specialists can review your reports for a no-obligation second opinion, and our orthopedic specialists will help you understand your options.
Conclusion
A meniscus tear is something you should understand, not a reason that automatically calls for surgery. Demand an explanation of what your scan reveals, check if it lines up with your symptoms and ask what realistic options exist before you make a decision about a meniscus tear.