A torn meniscus is one of the most common knee injuries, affecting people of all ages and activity levels. Whether you are an athlete, an active individual, or an older adult, a meniscal tear can significantly impact your mobility and overall quality of life. Understanding the symptoms, causes, and available treatment options can help you manage the condition effectively and return to your daily activities.
The meniscus is a C-shaped piece of cartilage in the knee that acts as a cushion between the femur (thigh bone) and tibia (shin bone). Each knee has two menisci:
- The medial meniscus, located on the inner side of the knee
- The lateral meniscus, located on the outer side of the knee
These structures help distribute weight evenly across the knee joint, absorb shock, and provide stability. A meniscal tear occurs when this cartilage is damaged, either due to injury or gradual wear and tear. Tears can vary in severity and shape, with common types including bucket handle tears, flap tears, and radial tears.
The symptoms of a torn meniscus can vary depending on the severity of the tear. Some of the most common symptoms include:
- Pain – Pain in the knee, especially when twisting, rotating, or bearing weight.
- Swelling – The knee may swell within hours or days after the injury.
- Stiffness and limited movement – Bending or straightening the knee may become difficult.
- Locking or catching – Some people feel a locking or catching sensation in the knee.
- Instability – The knee may feel like it is giving way or cannot support weight properly.
In cases of minor tears, symptoms may be mild or develop gradually over time. Severe tears, however, can cause immediate pain and swelling, requiring urgent medical attention.
A torn meniscus can result from both acute injuries and degenerative changes in the knee.
- Sudden twisting or pivoting movements – Common in sports such as basketball, football, and soccer.
- Direct impact to the knee – A fall, collision, or accident can lead to a tear.
- Degeneration due to aging – Over time, the meniscus weakens, making it more susceptible to tears from minor movements.
- Aging – Older adults are more prone to degenerative meniscus tears.
- Participation in high-impact sports – Activities that involve jumping, pivoting, or sudden stops increase the risk.
- Obesity – Extra weight puts more stress on the knee, increasing the likelihood of a tear.
A healthcare provider will diagnose a torn meniscus through:
Physical Examination – The doctor will check for swelling, tenderness, and knee movement limitations.
McMurray Test – A specific knee movement test where the doctor bends, rotates, and straightens the knee to detect a tear.
Imaging Tests:
- X-ray – Does not show the meniscus but helps rule out fractures or arthritis.
- MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) – The best test to visualize soft tissues, including the meniscus.
- Ultrasound – Can detect soft tissue injuries, though not as detailed as an MRI.
The treatment for a torn meniscus depends on the severity of the tear, location, and the patient’s activity level. Small tears may heal on their own, while larger tears may require surgery.
If the tear is mild or does not cause severe symptoms, conservative treatment is recommended:
- Rest – Avoid activities that worsen pain, such as squatting, running, or twisting the knee.
- Ice Therapy – Apply ice packs for 15-20 minutes several times a day to reduce swelling.
- Compression – Wearing a knee brace or elastic bandage can help support the knee.
- Elevation – Keeping the knee elevated helps minimize swelling.
- Pain Medications – Over-the-counter NSAIDs like ibuprofen (Advil) or naproxen (Aleve) can help relieve pain.
- Physical Therapy – Strengthening the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calf muscles can improve knee stability and function.
For older adults with degenerative meniscus tears, doctors may recommend corticosteroid injections to reduce pain and inflammation.
If symptoms persist after 3–4 weeks of conservative treatment, or if the tear is severe, surgery may be necessary. Common surgical procedures include:
- Meniscus Repair – The torn edges of the meniscus are stitched together, promoting natural healing. This is most effective in younger patients with tears in areas that have good blood supply.
- Partial Meniscectomy – The damaged portion of the meniscus is removed, preserving as much healthy tissue as possible.
- Meniscus Transplant – Rarely performed, this involves replacing the damaged meniscus with donor cartilage.
Recovery depends on the severity of the tear and the chosen treatment. Non-surgical recovery can take 6–8 weeks, while surgical recovery may take several months. Physical therapy plays a crucial role in restoring strength, flexibility, and mobility.
A physical therapist may recommend:
- Gentle stretching and strengthening exercises
- Balance training to improve stability
- Gait retraining to ensure proper walking mechanics
A torn meniscus is a painful and limiting knee injury, but with the right diagnosis and treatment, most people can recover successfully. Whether through rest, physical therapy, or surgery, managing the condition properly is key to regaining full function and preventing further complications. If you suspect a meniscus tear, seek medical advice promptly to ensure the best outcome for your knee health.
