Knee clicks, swelling, and sharp twists ruining training? Learn what meniscus tears are, how doctors confirm them, and the safest path back to sport.
The meniscus is shock-absorbing cartilage. When torn, cushioning and stability drop, creating pain, catching, and stiffness with stairs, squats, and turns.
Joint-line tenderness, painful clicks, swelling after activity, stiffness after sitting, and locking during deep bends are classic warning signs needing evaluation
Sudden pivots, awkward landings, deep squats, abrupt stops, or age-related degeneration overload cartilage fibers, increasing tear risk for athletes and active adults.
Examination guides suspicion. MRI confirms tear pattern and location. Arthroscopy visualizes damage directly when imaging is inconclusive or treatment proceeds.
Radial, flap, horizontal, complex, and bucket-handle tears require different strategies depending on size, stability, and vascular zone involvement.
Rest, ice, compression, elevation, anti-inflammatories, and targeted physio rebuilding quadriceps, hamstrings, and hips can stabilize knees and reduce painful catching.
When tissue quality allows, surgeons repair to preserve cushioning. Irreparable segments may need partial meniscectomy to trim frayed, unstable edges.
Control swelling early, restore motion, progress loading, add balance work, then graded jogging before pivots and contact drills after strength criteria are met.