The meniscus is a C-shaped piece of cartilage that acts as a shock absorber between the thighbone and shinbone. Meniscus injuries are among the most common knee injuries, particularly in athletes who participate in contact sports or those that involve pivoting and cutting.
Types of Meniscus Tears
Acute Tears
These occur suddenly, often during sports when the knee is twisted or rotated forcefully while bearing weight. You may feel a pop and experience immediate pain, swelling, and limited range of motion.
Degenerative Tears
These develop gradually over time as the meniscus weakens with age. They can occur with minimal or no trauma — sometimes just getting up from a squatting position.
Common Symptoms
- Pain along the joint line of the knee
- Swelling that develops over 24-48 hours
- Catching, locking, or clicking sensations
- Difficulty fully straightening the knee
- Pain that worsens with twisting or squatting
Treatment Approaches
Not all meniscus tears require surgery. Many tears, especially degenerative ones, can be managed with conservative treatment including physical therapy, activity modification, and gradual return to sport. The outer portion of the meniscus has a good blood supply and can heal on its own, while the inner portion has limited blood flow and may not heal as readily.
If you're experiencing knee pain, don't wait. Book a free phone consultation to get evaluated.
— Dr. Caleb