What is a Torn Meniscus?
A torn meniscus is a common knee injury involving damage to the cartilage that cushions and stabilizes the knee joint. The meniscus is a C-shaped piece of tough, rubbery cartilage located between the thigh bone (femur) and the shin bone (tibia). Each knee has two menisci—medial (inner) and lateral (outer).
A tear can occur suddenly during physical activity, especially when twisting or turning the knee, or it can result from gradual wear and tear over time.
What Are the Symptoms of a Torn Meniscus?
Symptoms vary depending on the size and location of the tear, and whether other knee structures are involved.
Common Symptoms:
- Pain in the knee, especially when twisting or rotating
- Swelling or stiffness
- A popping sensation at the time of injury
- Limited range of motion
- Difficulty straightening the knee fully
- A feeling of the knee “locking” or “catching”
- Instability or a sense that the knee may give out
What Causes a Torn Meniscus?
A torn meniscus can result from a sudden injury or from degenerative changes over time.
Common Causes:
- Sudden twisting or pivoting motions during sports
- Squatting or lifting heavy objects
- Direct trauma to the knee
- Age-related degeneration of cartilage
- Osteoarthritis increasing susceptibility to tears
How is a Torn Meniscus Diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves a clinical evaluation and imaging tests.
Diagnostic Steps:
- Physical examination of the knee (checking for tenderness, range of motion, and signs of locking)
- McMurray test or other knee maneuvers to provoke symptoms
- MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) to confirm the tear and assess severity
- X-rays may be used to rule out bone damage, although they do not show soft tissue
How is a Torn Meniscus Treated?
Treatment depends on the type, location, and extent of the tear, as well as patient age and activity level.
- Non-Surgical Treatment (for minor tears or degenerative changes)
- Rest and activity modification
- Ice application to reduce swelling
- Compression with an elastic bandage or knee brace
- Elevation of the leg
- Physical therapy to strengthen muscles around the knee
- Pain relief with anti-inflammatory medications
- Surgical Treatment (for larger or persistent tears)
- Arthroscopic surgery to trim or repair the torn meniscus
- Meniscectomy (removal of the torn portion)
- Meniscus repair (suturing the tear together) for younger or active patients
- Post-surgical rehabilitation to restore strength and flexibility
Complications of a Torn Meniscus
If not properly treated, a torn meniscus can lead to:
- Chronic knee pain
- Recurrent swelling or stiffness
- Joint instability
- Increased risk of developing knee osteoarthritis
Living with or Preventing a Torn Meniscus
Tips for Recovery and Prevention:
- Follow rehabilitation exercises after injury or surgery
- Avoid activities that strain the knees, especially twisting or squatting
- Maintain a healthy weight to reduce pressure on the knees
- Use proper techniques during sports or physical activity
- Wear supportive footwear
- Strengthen leg muscles to stabilize the knee joint