Knee · CONDITION & TREATMENT
Meniscus Tears
The meniscus cushions the knee. A tear may follow a sports injury or develop with wear over time.
Common Symptoms
Joint-line pain, swelling, catching or locking.
How It Is Evaluated
An examination and, when appropriate, MRI help define the tear. X-rays assess arthritis and other causes of pain.
Nonsurgical Management
Activity modification, physical therapy and suitable pain medication may help. Many tears can be managed without immediate surgery.
When Surgery May Help
A locked knee or persistent symptoms may warrant arthroscopy. Repair preserves tissue when feasible; some tears require limited trimming.
Recovery & Return to Activity
Recovery depends on the injury, treatment and your activity goals. Rehabilitation progresses from motion and strength to functional tasks. Return to sport should be based on healing, function and your care team's assessment, rather than a date alone.
Further reading: AAOS OrthoInfo — Meniscus tears