Meniscal tears
What is Meniscal tears?
The menisci are C-shaped shock absorbers in the knee. Meniscal tears may occur from twisting injuries in younger patients or as part of degenerative knee change in adults. The treatment depends strongly on tear type, tissue quality and symptoms.
Common symptoms
Symptoms include joint line pain, swelling, catching, locking, pain with twisting, difficulty squatting and recurrent flares after activity. True mechanical locking suggests a displaced tear and should be assessed promptly.
Diagnosis and imaging
Examination assesses joint line tenderness, range of motion, effusion and ligament stability. Weight-bearing X-rays check for arthritis. MRI defines tear pattern, repairability and associated cartilage or ligament injuries.
Non-surgical treatment
Many degenerative or stable tears improve with physiotherapy, strength work, swelling control and load modification. Treatment focuses on the whole knee, not just the MRI finding.
Surgical treatment
Surgery is considered for displaced tears, true locking, repairable traumatic tears or persistent symptoms despite rehabilitation. Meniscal repair is preferred when biology and tear pattern allow, because preserving meniscus protects the knee long term.
Recovery and follow-up
Recovery after meniscal repair is slower than after partial meniscectomy because the repair must heal. Rehabilitation may restrict weight-bearing or flexion early, then progress strength and return to sport in stages.
Meniscal tears FAQs
Does every meniscal tear need surgery?
No. Many tears, especially degenerative tears, improve without surgery. The decision depends on symptoms, tear pattern, knee arthritis and functional goals.
How is meniscal tears diagnosed?
Diagnosis starts with a focused history and examination, then uses imaging selectively to confirm the pattern of injury, exclude related problems and plan treatment accurately.
What is the difference between repair and trimming?
Repair stitches the meniscus to preserve tissue but requires healing time. Trimming removes unstable torn tissue but sacrifices some meniscal function.
Will I need surgery for meniscal tears?
Many patients improve without surgery. Surgery is considered when symptoms remain limiting despite appropriate non-surgical care, when there is significant structural damage, or when delay may compromise function.
When can I return to running, pivoting sport or gym training?
Return depends on the diagnosis, treatment type, tissue healing and the physical demands of the activity. The plan is usually staged, with strength, range of motion and confidence rebuilt before unrestricted loading.
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