Meniscus Tear

The meniscus is a C-shaped piece of cartilage located between the thighbone (femur) and shinbone (tibia) in each knee. It acts as a cushion and stabilizer, helping to absorb shock and protect the joint during movement. Each knee has two menisci—medial and lateral—that are essential for smooth and pain-free knee function.

A meniscus tear typically occurs when the knee twists or turns forcefully, especially during sports or high-impact activities. It’s more likely when the full body weight is applied to the leg while twisting. Tears can vary in shape and severity and are commonly categorized as flap, radial, or bucket-handle tears depending on how the cartilage is torn.

If left untreated, a meniscus tear can lead to persistent knee pain and limited movement. The knee may become unstable and increase the risk of developing knee osteoarthritis. In some cases, a fragment of the torn meniscus may get caught in the joint, causing the knee to lock or give way, making treatment essential for long-term joint health.

Causes

A meniscus tear often happens when the knee twists or rotates under pressure, especially with the foot planted firmly. It can also occur from everyday movements like kneeling, squatting, or lifting heavy objects. People at higher risk include athletes in pivot-heavy sports like basketball or tennis, individuals who are overweight, and older adults with age-related knee degeneration.

Symptoms

The main symptoms include:

• Pain on the inner or outer side of the knee, depending on the tear’s location
• A “popping” or “clicking” sound at the time of injury
• Knee joint locking or catching if torn cartilage becomes lodged between the femur and tibia
• Stiffness and swelling in the knee
• Limited range of motion in the knee joint
• Sensation of the knee “giving way” during movement

Treatment for a meniscus tear varies based on the severity, location of the tear, and individual factors like age and activity level. In many cases, non-surgical methods like rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) can promote healing. However, surgery may be required if symptoms persist or the tear is more severe.

Treatment Options:

• Nonsurgical:
  • RICE protocol (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation)
  • Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) for pain and swelling
  • Physical therapy to restore strength and flexibility
  • Biologic injections (e.g., PRP) under study
• Surgical:
  • Arthroscopic Surgery: Minimally invasive procedure using a camera to repair the tear
  • Partial Meniscectomy: Removal of unstable fragments and smoothing the meniscus
  • Total Meniscectomy: Removal of the entire meniscus (in severe cases)