Meniscal Tear
A torn meniscus is one of the most common knee injuries. Learn about symptoms, treatment options, and when surgery might be needed.
What is the Meniscus?
The meniscus is a C-shaped piece of cartilage that acts as a cushion between your thighbone (femur) and shinbone (tibia). Each knee has two menisci—one on the inner (medial) side and one on the outer (lateral) side.
The meniscus serves several important functions: it absorbs shock, distributes weight across the knee, provides stability, and helps lubricate the joint. When torn, these functions are compromised, leading to pain and potential long-term joint damage if left untreated.
Symptoms
Meniscal tear symptoms can vary depending on the type and severity of the tear:
- Pain along the joint line of the knee
- Swelling that develops over 24-48 hours
- Catching or locking of the knee
- Difficulty fully straightening the knee
- Feeling like your knee might give way
- A popping sensation at the time of injury
Locked Knee?
If your knee is locked and you cannot straighten it, this may indicate a bucket-handle meniscal tear. This type of tear can block knee motion and may require urgent treatment.
Contact Dr. Hunter’s office right away if you’re experiencing a locked knee.
Causes of Meniscal Tears
Sports Injuries
Twisting or pivoting motions, especially with the foot planted
Degenerative Changes
Wear and tear over time, common in people over 40
Squatting or Kneeling
Deep squats or prolonged kneeling can stress the meniscus
Combined Injuries
Often occurs alongside ACL tears or other ligament injuries
Diagnosis
Dr. Hunter will diagnose a meniscal tear through a combination of:
- 1
Physical Examination
Special tests like McMurray’s test and joint line tenderness
- 2
MRI Scan
Gold standard for visualizing meniscal tears and their patterns
- 3
X-rays
To rule out other conditions like arthritis or fractures
Types of Meniscal Tears
- Radial tears: Most common, may not heal on their own
- Horizontal tears: Often degenerative in nature
- Bucket-handle tears: Can cause knee locking
- Flap tears: A piece of meniscus folds over
- Complex tears: Multiple tear patterns combined
The type and location of tear determines the best treatment approach.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the tear type, location, your age, and activity level. Dr. Hunter will recommend the best approach for your specific situation.
Conservative Treatment
- Rest, ice, compression, elevation (RICE)
- Physical therapy to strengthen muscles
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Activity modification
May be effective for small tears or degenerative tears in older patients
Meniscus Repair
- Arthroscopic surgery to suture the tear
- Preserves the meniscus for long-term joint health
- Longer recovery but better outcomes
- Best for tears in the outer "red zone"
Dr. Hunter prefers repair when possible to protect the knee long-term
Partial Meniscectomy
- Removal of the damaged portion only
- Quick recovery (2-4 weeks)
- May be necessary for certain tear patterns
- Preserves as much healthy tissue as possible
Used when repair is not possible due to tear location or pattern
Related Conditions
Get your knee evaluated today
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Hunter to discuss your meniscal tear and determine the best treatment plan for you.