Meniscus Tears

The knee contains two menisci, crescent-shaped pieces of cartilage located between the femur (thighbone) and tibia (shinbone). These structures help cushion the joint, distribute weight, absorb shock, and contribute to knee stability.

When a meniscus tears, the knee may no longer move smoothly, leading to pain, swelling, and mechanical symptoms that can interfere with daily activities and athletic performance. At Fox Valley Orthopedics, we provide personalized treatment plans designed to address symptoms and support long-term knee health.

What Is a Meniscus Tear?

A meniscus tear occurs when the cartilage within the knee becomes damaged or torn.

The meniscus helps:

• Absorb shock within the knee
• Stabilize the knee joint
• Protect the cartilage surfaces
• Distribute force across the joint
• Support normal knee movement

Tears may range from small injuries that cause mild symptoms to larger tears that significantly affect knee function.

What Types of Meniscus Tears Are There?

Several types of meniscus tears can occur depending on the pattern and location of the injury.

Acute Meniscus Tears

Acute meniscus tears occur suddenly, often during sports or activities that involve twisting, pivoting, squatting, or rapid changes in direction.

Degenerative Meniscus Tears

Degenerative tears develop gradually over time as the cartilage weakens due to age-related wear and tear.

Medial Meniscus Tears

These tears occur on the inner side of the knee and are among the most common meniscus injuries.

Lateral Meniscus Tears

Lateral meniscus tears affect the outer side of the knee and are frequently seen in athletic injuries.

What Causes a Meniscus Tear?

Meniscus tears can result from acute injury or gradual degeneration.

Common causes include:

• Twisting injuries
• Pivoting movements
• Sudden changes in direction
• Sports participation
• Deep squatting
• Heavy lifting
• Falls
• Direct knee trauma
• Age-related cartilage wear
• Osteoarthritis

Athletes who participate in soccer, basketball, football, tennis, and similar sports may be at increased risk.

What Are the Symptoms of a Meniscus Tear?

Symptoms vary depending on the size and location of the tear.

Common signs and symptoms include:

• Knee pain
• Swelling
• Stiffness
• Catching sensations in the knee
• Locking of the joint
• Popping sensations
• Reduced range of motion
• Difficulty squatting
• Difficulty bending or straightening the knee
• Knee instability
• Pain during twisting movements

Some patients are able to continue activities initially, while others experience immediate pain and limitations.

How Is a Meniscus Tear Diagnosed?

Diagnosing a meniscus tear begins with a comprehensive orthopedic evaluation.

Diagnostic evaluation may include:

• Review of symptoms and medical history
• Physical examination
• Assessment of knee stability
• Range-of-motion testing
• Meniscus-specific examination maneuvers
• Evaluation of gait and walking mechanics
• X-rays to assess associated conditions
• MRI imaging
• Advanced diagnostic imaging when appropriate

MRI scans are often the most effective imaging study for confirming a meniscus tear and evaluating the extent of the injury.

How Is a Meniscus Tear Treated?

Treatment depends on the size, location, and severity of the tear, as well as the patient’s age, activity level, and goals.

What Nonsurgical Treatments Are Available for a Meniscus Tear?

Many meniscus tears can be treated without surgery.

Nonsurgical treatment options may include:

• Activity modification
• Physical therapy
• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Ice therapy
• Bracing
• Strengthening exercises
• Mobility training
• Corticosteroid injections in select cases
• Home exercise programs

The goal of conservative treatment is to reduce pain, improve knee function, and allow the knee to move more comfortably.

When Is Surgery Recommended for a Meniscus Tear?

Surgery may be recommended when:

• Symptoms persist despite conservative treatment
• The knee repeatedly locks or catches
• Significant mechanical symptoms are present
• The tear is large or unstable
• Knee function remains limited
• The patient wishes to return to higher levels of activity

Surgical options may include:

• Arthroscopic meniscus repair
• Partial meniscectomy
• Meniscus preservation procedures
• Treatment of associated knee injuries

Whenever possible, preserving and repairing the meniscus is preferred because of its important role in protecting the knee joint.

What Complications Can Occur if a Meniscus Tear Is Left Untreated?

Without treatment, a meniscus tear may continue to affect knee function and contribute to additional joint problems.

Potential complications include:

• Chronic knee pain
• Persistent swelling
• Reduced range of motion
• Recurrent locking or catching
• Knee instability
• Cartilage damage
• Accelerated arthritis development
• Decreased activity levels
• Reduced quality of life

Early evaluation and treatment can help preserve knee function and protect long-term joint health.

Get Expert Meniscus Tear Care at Fox Valley Orthopedics

A meniscus tear can make it difficult to work, exercise, play sports, and enjoy everyday activities without pain. At Fox Valley Orthopedics, our experienced specialists provide comprehensive care for meniscus injuries, including advanced diagnostics, rehabilitation programs, injection therapies, and minimally invasive surgical treatment when necessary.

Whether your treatment involves physical therapy, activity modification, bracing, arthroscopic surgery, or meniscus repair, our team is committed to helping you regain comfort, mobility, and confidence. If you’re experiencing symptoms of a meniscus tear, schedule an appointment with Fox Valley Orthopedics today by calling (855) 386-7846 to discuss your treatment options and take the first step toward lasting relief.