Meniscus Tears

What are meniscal tears?

The menisci are two C-shaped pieces of cartilage that act as shock absorbers between your thighbone (femur) and shinbone (tibia). A meniscal tear happens when this cartilage is damaged, usually due to twisting the knee while bearing weight. Tears can vary from small frays to large splits, and are one of the most common knee injuries.

General Overview

Meniscal tears can occur suddenly during sports or everyday activities, or gradually with age as the cartilage weakens. They often cause pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the knee. In some cases, a torn flap of cartilage can get caught in the joint, leading to locking or restricted movement.

Treatment depends on the type and severity of the tear. Some heal with rest and physiotherapy, while others may need surgery (often a keyhole procedure called arthroscopy).

What are the symptoms of meniscal tears?

• Sudden pain at the time of injury (often during twisting or squatting)

• Swelling that develops over hours or days

• Stiffness and reduced movement

• A clicking, catching, or popping sensation in the knee

• Locking of the knee or inability to fully straighten it

• Feeling that the knee may give way when walking