Meniscus Tears

A meniscus tear can cause immediate or gradual discomfort.

• Many people recall a distinct “pop” at the time of injury, followed by pain and swelling within several hours.
• The knee may feel stiff, unstable, or difficult to move fully.
• Common symptoms include pain along the inner or outer side of the knee, swelling or stiffness, a catching or locking sensation when bending the knee, a feeling of the knee “giving way,” and limited range of motion.

In some cases, symptoms may ease temporarily, allowing continued activity, but pain and swelling often return as the injury interferes with knee mechanics.

Meniscus tears are caused by either an acute injury or gradual cartilage degeneration. In younger athletes, they usually occur during activities that require rapid twisting, pivoting, or directional changes, such as basketball, soccer, or tennis. These motions place rotational stress on the knee, especially when the foot is planted.

In older adults, tears often develop from age-related wear and tear. The meniscus becomes thinner and less resilient, making it vulnerable even during minor movements like kneeling or standing up. When the meniscus has deteriorated, a fall can tear the meniscus.

Risk factors include participation in high-impact sports, poor muscle conditioning around the knee, previous knee injuries, repetitive kneeling or squatting, and advancing age. While athletes are more likely to experience traumatic tears, middle-aged individuals may suffer degenerative tears from everyday activities.

Meniscus tears vary by location and shape, which influences both symptoms and treatment.

• Radial tears begin at the inner edge of the meniscus and can disrupt its ability to absorb shock. Horizontal tears split the cartilage into upper and lower layers and often occur from degeneration.
• Flap tears produce irregular fragments that catch in the joint, causing locking sensations.
• Bucket handle tears involve a large section of cartilage that displaces into the joint, severely limiting motion.
• Complex tears combine several patterns and are commonly found in older adults with arthritic changes. Identifying the specific type of tear is essential for determining the most effective management approach.

Diagnosis begins with a detailed evaluation by Dr. Kevin Collon. He will carefully review the patient’s history, symptoms, and mechanism of injury, followed by a thorough knee examination. He may perform specific tests to detect pain, clicking, or catching along the joint line. Swelling and tenderness are also key indicators.

Imaging studies are used to confirm the diagnosis. X-rays help rule out fractures or arthritis but cannot show soft tissue. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) provides a detailed view of the meniscus and surrounding structures, revealing the exact size, location, and pattern of the tear. In some cases, arthroscopy—a minimally invasive procedure using a small camera—is performed to directly view and sometimes treat the tear within the knee joint.

If left untreated, a meniscus tear can lead to chronic pain, swelling, and instability. The uneven distribution of weight on the knee may accelerate cartilage wear and increase the likelihood of developing arthritis.

Large or displaced tears can cause mechanical locking, preventing full movement of the knee. Repeated locking or catching episodes may damage nearby cartilage and bone, worsening long-term joint health. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are vital for preserving function and preventing future degeneration.

Orthopedic evaluation should be sought when knee pain, swelling, or instability follows an injury. Persistent stiffness, difficulty walking, or inability to straighten the knee fully may indicate a significant tear. Early assessment improves treatment options and outcomes, reducing the risk of permanent damage. Even if symptoms temporarily subside, underlying cartilage damage may continue to progress without intervention.