Meniscus Tear Treatment
The meniscus, the knee's shock absorber, can tear during twisting movements or through age-related wear. Treatment depends on the type and location of the tear and on age.
The menisci are two crescent-shaped cartilage cushions between the thigh bone and the shin bone. They spread load evenly across the joint surface, absorb shock and help keep the knee stable. A meniscus tear is a common knee problem both in athletes and in later life.
Why does the meniscus tear?
- Traumatic tears: Usually in young, active people, when the knee twists suddenly with the foot fixed on the ground. Common in football, basketball and skiing, and may occur together with an ACL injury.
- Degenerative tears: With age, the meniscus loses its elasticity. Even simple movements such as squatting or getting up from the floor can cause a tear.
Symptoms
- Pain on the inner or outer side of the knee
- Swelling and a feeling of fullness
- Catching, locking, or being unable to straighten the knee fully
- Pain going down stairs and when squatting
- A feeling that the knee gives way
Diagnosis
On examination, tenderness along the joint line and specific meniscus tests are assessed. MRI is the most useful test for showing the location and shape of the tear and any associated ligament or cartilage damage. X-rays are taken, especially in older patients, to see whether arthritis is also present.
Treatment options
Non-surgical treatment
Many tears that do not cause locking, especially degenerative ones, improve without surgery. Short rest, ice, pain relief and a regular strengthening programme are used. Joint injections are also an option in suitable patients.
Arthroscopic meniscus repair
Tears in the outer edge of the meniscus, where the blood supply is good, can be stitched, especially in younger patients. Preserving the meniscus protects the cartilage and the joint in the long term, so repair is the priority for suitable tears.
Partial meniscectomy
When a tear cannot be repaired, only the torn and unstable part is removed arthroscopically and the healthy meniscus is preserved. The aim is to remove the fragment causing locking and catching.
After surgery
Arthroscopy is usually a day case or needs one night in hospital. After partial meniscectomy, patients walk with full weight soon after surgery and return to daily activities within a few weeks. After a repair, crutches and a brace are used for a while to let the repair heal, and deep squatting and sport are postponed for a few months.
Why is preserving the meniscus important?
The meniscus carries a large share of the load in the knee. Removing too much meniscus increases pressure on the cartilage and can raise the risk of arthritis in later years. Today, the key principle of treatment is to preserve as much meniscus as possible.
Frequently asked questions
Does a meniscus tear heal on its own?
Some small tears in the outer edge can heal on their own. Healing is limited in the inner parts because the blood supply is poor, but symptoms can often be controlled with treatment.
Does every meniscus tear need surgery?
No. Most tears that do not cause locking, especially age-related ones, are treated without surgery first. The decision depends on the type of tear, the symptoms and age.
When can I return to sport after meniscus surgery?
After partial meniscectomy, return usually takes a few weeks. After a repair, it takes a few months to protect the repair.
Can I keep walking with a meniscus tear?
Many patients can. But if the knee locks, swells markedly or gives way, straining movements should be avoided and the knee assessed.
The information on this page is general and does not replace an examination. An examination is needed to decide which treatment suits you.