Meniscal Tears
The medial (inner) and lateral (outer) menisci are crescent-shaped discs of cartilage between the femur (thigh bone) the tibia (shin bone).
- Function as shock absorbers in the knee joint
- -Distribute body weight evenly across the knee
Signs and Symptoms
- Pain with pivoting or twisting, swelling, stiffness, catching or locking
- Blow to the inner or outer aspect of the knee
What causes a meniscal tear?
- Can be the result of a sudden twist or repeated squatting
Non-surgical Treatment
- Symptomatic management including icing, elevation and anti-inflammatory use
- Injection Therapy
- Physical Therapy
Surgical Treatment: Knee Arthroscopy
- With continued catching/locking or failed non-surgical treatment, knee arthroscopy may be considered
- Damaged meniscus can either be removed or repaired
- Torn tissue on the inside of the meniscus is often removed
- Newly torn tissue on the outer edge of the meniscus can often be repaired
- -Improved blood supply allows for healing
- Physical Therapy is an integral component to your recovery from surgery
- -Appropriate timing and progression is key to the outcome
- For further details on your rehabilitation, please see the Physical Therapy section in Patient Resources.