Meniscus Tear: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention

What is a Meniscus Tear?

A meniscus tear is a common knee injury. The meniscus is a piece of cartilage in your knee. It acts like a cushion between your thigh bone and shin bone. When this cartilage tears, it is called a meniscus tear. Many people get this injury during sports or daily activities. Because the meniscus helps your knee move smoothly, a tear can cause pain and swelling. Early care can help you recover faster.

Common Symptoms of a Meniscus Tear

Meniscus tear symptoms can vary. Some people feel pain right away, while others notice it later. However, most people experience some common signs. If you have a meniscus tear, you may notice:

Knee pain, especially when twisting or turning

Swelling or stiffness in the knee

A popping feeling at the time of injury

Difficulty straightening your knee fully

Your knee feels like it locks or catches

Sometimes, symptoms may get worse with activity. If you notice these signs, it is important to see a doctor.

Causes and Risk Factors

Meniscus tears often happen during activities that put pressure on the knee. For example, sports that involve sudden stops, turns, or jumps can cause a tear. But, even simple actions like squatting or lifting can lead to injury. Some common causes and risk factors include:

Playing sports like soccer, basketball, or football

Sudden twisting or pivoting movements

Getting older, as the meniscus can weaken with age

Previous knee injuries

Jobs or hobbies that require kneeling or squatting

Because the meniscus becomes less flexible as we age, older adults are at higher risk. Even minor injuries can cause a tear in older people.

How Meniscus Tears are Diagnosed

Doctors use several steps to diagnose a meniscus tear. First, your doctor will ask about your symptoms and how the injury happened. Next, they will examine your knee. They may move your leg in different ways to check for pain or locking. Sometimes, doctors use imaging tests to get a better look. These may include:

X-rays: To rule out broken bones

MRI scans: To see the soft tissues, like the meniscus

With these tests, your doctor can confirm if you have a meniscus tear and decide on the best treatment.

Treatment Options for Meniscus Tears

Treatment for a meniscus tear depends on the size and location of the tear. Your age, activity level, and symptoms also matter. Some tears heal on their own, while others need more care. Common treatment options include:

Rest: Avoid activities that cause pain

Ice: Apply ice packs to reduce swelling

Compression: Use a knee brace or wrap

Elevation: Keep your knee raised to help swelling

Physical therapy: Exercises to strengthen the knee

Medications: Pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen

Surgery: In some cases, doctors may repair or remove the torn part

Most people recover with simple treatments. However, surgery may be needed if the tear is large or does not heal.

Tips for Recovery and Lifestyle Guidance

Recovering from a meniscus tear takes time. But, there are steps you can take to help your knee heal. For example, you can:

Follow your doctor’s advice closely

Do physical therapy exercises as recommended

Use crutches or a knee brace if needed

Take breaks and avoid heavy lifting

Eat a healthy diet to support healing

Because every person heals at a different pace, it is important to be patient. If you feel more pain or swelling, let your doctor know right away.

Prevention of Meniscus Tears

While not all meniscus tears can be prevented, you can lower your risk by following these tips:

Warm up before exercise or sports

Wear proper shoes for your activity

Strengthen your leg muscles with regular exercise

Use good form when lifting or squatting

Avoid sudden twists or turns with your knee

Because strong muscles help protect your knee, regular exercise is key. If you have had a knee injury before, talk to your doctor about safe activities.

Consult an orthopedic specialist at Dr. Jaideep Singh Sardar for personalised advice on meniscus tear management and knee health.