Torn Meniscus
A torn meniscus is a tear in one of the two C-shaped cartilage cushions inside the knee. In younger people it usually happens with twisting injuries during sports; in older adults, the meniscus can tear with minor movements as it wears over time. It is one of the most common knee injuries at any age.
Common symptoms
- Pain along the inner or outer edge of the knee, often worse with twisting or squatting
- Swelling that develops over hours to days
- Catching, clicking, or locking of the knee
- Stiffness or difficulty fully straightening the knee
When to see a specialist
See a physician if knee pain persists beyond a couple of weeks, or sooner if the knee locks or cannot fully straighten. Many meniscus tears, especially wear-related ones, improve with physical therapy and time, so non-surgical care is often the first step. A surgeon can advise whether your tear type would benefit from repair or trimming.
Treatment options
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Common questions
- Does a torn meniscus always need surgery?
- No. Many tears, particularly degenerative tears in adults over 40, improve with physical therapy and do not require surgery. Surgery is typically considered for locking, persistent symptoms, or certain tear patterns in active patients.
- What happens if a meniscus tear is left untreated?
- Some tears become painless with time and rehab; others continue to catch or swell with activity. Your physician can help judge whether waiting is reasonable in your case.
- Repair or removal, which is better?
- When a tear is repairable, preserving the meniscus is generally better for the long-term health of the knee, though recovery takes longer. Not all tears can be repaired; location and blood supply matter.
This page provides general information only and is not medical advice. Consult a qualified physician about your specific situation. Listings are not endorsements.