What it is
Each knee has two menisci, medial and lateral, that act as shock absorbers and help spread load across the joint.
In younger people, tears usually follow a twisting injury. In older adults, the meniscus can tear with minimal trauma as the tissue becomes more brittle.
Symptoms
- Pain along the inner or outer joint line
- Swelling and stiffness
- Catching or locking of the knee
- A sense of the knee giving way
Diagnosis
An examination focuses on joint-line tenderness and provocative tests. X-rays look for arthritis and alignment; an MRI shows the type and location of the tear.
Treatment options
Non-surgical
- Many degenerative tears improve with physical therapy, activity modification and medication
- Injections may be considered for associated arthritis-related pain
Surgical
- Meniscus repair. When the tear pattern and blood supply allow, the torn edges are stitched together to preserve the meniscus. This is favoured whenever practical, especially in younger patients.
- Partial meniscectomy. When a tear cannot be repaired, only the unstable torn portion is trimmed, preserving as much healthy meniscus as possible.
- A knee that is mechanically locked may need surgery sooner.
Recovery
- Partial meniscectomy
Most people walk within days and return to many activities within several weeks.
- Meniscus repair
Weight-bearing and bending are often limited for several weeks to protect the repair.
- Strengthening
Physical therapy restores motion, strength and control.
- Return to sport
After a repair, return to sport is commonly around four to six months.
Timelines are typical ranges, not guarantees. Recovery depends on the specific injury, the procedure, your health and your rehabilitation, and your plan is individualized.
Questions patients ask
Do all meniscus tears need surgery?
No. Many tears, especially degenerative ones, are treated effectively without surgery.
Why repair rather than remove?
The meniscus protects the cartilage. Preserving it when possible may help protect the knee over the long term.
Can I walk on a torn meniscus?
Often yes, but locking, catching or giving way should be evaluated promptly.
This page is general patient education and is not a substitute for an in-person evaluation.