Understanding Meniscus Tears: Symptoms, Causes and Treatment Options

Knee pain is a common reason people seek orthopaedic care, and one of the most frequent causes is a meniscus tear. Whether the injury occurs during sport or develops gradually with age, a torn meniscus can affect your mobility and make everyday activities uncomfortable.

Fortunately, not every meniscus tear requires surgery. Treatment depends on several factors, including the type of tear, your symptoms, activity level, and overall knee health.

At PJS Orthopaedics, we provide comprehensive assessment and personalized treatment plans for patients experiencing knee pain, helping them return to the activities they enjoy whenever appropriate.

What Is the Meniscus?

The meniscus is a piece of tough, rubber-like cartilage located within the knee joint. Each knee contains two menisci, which work together to absorb shock, distribute weight across the joint, provide stability, and help protect the articular cartilage.

The two menisci are:

• The medial meniscus, located on the inside of the knee joint
• The lateral meniscus, located on the outside of the knee joint

These structures act as cushions between the thigh bone (femur) and the shin bone (tibia), helping to evenly distribute load across the knee during walking, running, and other daily activities. They also contribute to the stability and smooth movement of the knee joint.

When either meniscus becomes torn, it can affect how the knee functions and may lead to symptoms such as pain, swelling, clicking, catching, or locking of the knee.

What Causes a Meniscus Tear?

Meniscus tears can occur in people of all ages, although the causes often differ.

Sports and Twisting Injuries

Younger people commonly injure the meniscus during activities that involve:

• Sudden twisting
• Pivoting
• Squatting
• Rapid changes in direction
• Contact sports

Sports such as football, basketball, tennis and netball may increase the risk of this type of injury.

Age-Related Degeneration

As we age, the meniscus naturally becomes less flexible and more prone to wear.

In some cases, a tear may occur during everyday activities such as:

• Kneeling
• Squatting
• Stepping off a curb
• Lifting objects
• Getting up from a chair

Degenerative meniscus tears are often associated with osteoarthritis but may also occur independently.

Common Symptoms of a Meniscus Tear

Symptoms vary depending on the location and severity of the tear.

You may experience:

• Pain on the inside or outside of the knee
• Swelling that develops over several hours
• Difficulty bending or straightening the knee
• A catching or locking sensation
• Clicking during movement
• A feeling that the knee may give way
• Pain when twisting or squatting

Some smaller tears may cause only mild discomfort, while larger tears can significantly affect knee function.

When Should You See an Orthopaedic Specialist?

It is advisable to seek medical assessment if you have:

• Knee pain lasting more than a few days
• Significant swelling
• Difficulty walking
• Repeated locking of the knee
• Inability to fully straighten the knee
• Persistent instability
• Symptoms that interfere with work, sport or daily activities

Early assessment can help determine the cause of your symptoms and guide appropriate management.

How Is a Meniscus Tear Diagnosed?

Diagnosis begins with a detailed medical history and physical examination.

Your orthopaedic surgeon may assess:

• The location of your pain
• Knee movement
• Joint stability
• Areas of tenderness
• Mechanical symptoms such as locking or catching

Depending on your symptoms, imaging may also be recommended.

X-rays

Although X-rays do not show the meniscus itself, they can help assess arthritis or other bone-related conditions.

MRI Scan

An MRI provides detailed images of the soft tissues within the knee and may assist in confirming a meniscus tear when clinically appropriate.

Not every patient requires an MRI. Imaging decisions are made based on individual clinical circumstances.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on several factors, including:

• Age
• Activity level
• Location of the tear
• Size of the tear
• Presence of arthritis
• Severity of symptoms

Non-Surgical Treatment

Many people improve without surgery.

Management may include:

• Activity modification
• Physiotherapy
• Ice to reduce swelling
• Short-term pain relief medications where appropriate
• Gradual strengthening exercises
• Returning to activity under professional guidance

Your healthcare provider will recommend the most appropriate approach based on your condition.

When Might Surgery Be Considered?

Surgery is not necessary for every meniscus tear.

However, it may be considered if:

• Symptoms persist despite conservative treatment
• The knee repeatedly locks
• A repairable tear is identified
• The injury significantly limits daily activities
• Mechanical symptoms continue

The decision to proceed with surgery is made following an individual assessment and discussion of potential benefits and risks.

Recovery After Treatment

Recovery varies depending on:

• The type of tear
• Whether surgery is required
• Your overall health
• Your rehabilitation program

Many patients gradually return to normal activities with appropriate rehabilitation.

Following your healthcare team’s advice regarding exercise progression and activity modification is an important part of recovery.

Can Meniscus Tears Be Prevented?

While not all injuries are preventable, you may reduce your risk by:

• Maintaining leg strength
• Improving balance and flexibility
• Warming up before exercise
• Wearing appropriate footwear
• Gradually increasing activity levels
• Using proper sporting technique

For older adults, regular exercise may also help maintain joint function and stability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a meniscus tear heal on its own?

Some smaller tears, particularly those located in areas with a better blood supply, may improve with conservative management. Others may continue to cause symptoms and require further assessment.

Is surgery always needed?

No. Many meniscus tears can be managed without surgery. Treatment depends on your symptoms, examination findings and the characteristics of the tear.

What does a torn meniscus feel like?

People commonly describe pain during twisting movements, swelling, stiffness, clicking or catching sensations, and occasionally the knee locking.

Can I continue exercising?

Depending on your symptoms, low-impact activities may be appropriate while awaiting assessment. If exercise significantly worsens pain or your knee locks or gives way, seek medical advice before continuing.

When to Seek Specialist Care

Persistent knee pain should not be ignored, particularly if it affects your ability to work, exercise or enjoy daily life.

At PJS Orthopaedics, Dr Parminder J. Singh provides comprehensive assessment of knee conditions, including meniscus injuries. After identifying the underlying cause of your symptoms, a personalised management plan can be developed based on your individual needs and goals.

If you are experiencing ongoing knee pain, swelling or locking, contact PJS Orthopaedics to arrange a consultation.