Meniscus tear

The menisci are two C-shaped pads of cartilage that cushion and stabilize the knee. A meniscus can tear suddenly with a twisting injury, or gradually as the cartilage wears with age.

• Pain along the inner or outer side of the knee
• Swelling and stiffness that may build over a day or two
• Catching or locking, or a knee that gets stuck
• Difficulty straightening the knee fully
• Pain with twisting, squatting, or kneeling

An examination and, when needed, an MRI help show the type and location of the tear. X-rays can show arthritis, which often affects the treatment plan.

Non-operative treatment — rest from painful activities, ice, anti-inflammatory medication when appropriate, physical therapy, and sometimes an injection — is often the first step, particularly for tears related to wear.

Surgery is usually arthroscopic. Depending on the tear, the surgeon may repair it with stitches or trim away the torn portion (partial meniscectomy). Repair preserves more of the meniscus but generally needs a longer, more protected recovery. Surgery is more often considered for tears that cause locking, tears from a clear injury in younger patients, or symptoms that do not improve with non-operative care.