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A meniscal tear is an injury to the crescent-shaped cartilage in the knee joint that acts as a cushion between the thigh bone (femur) and shin bone (tibia). The meniscus helps stabilize the knee, absorb shock, and evenly distribute weight across the joint. A tear can reduce stability, limit motion, and cause pain, which may worsen with activity and lead to long-term joint issues. Recognizing a meniscal tear and receiving timely treatment is essential for maintaining your knee health and function.
What are Meniscal Tears?
Meniscal tears are a common knee injury and typically occur when you twist, pivot, or make sudden changes in direction. They may also develop gradually with age as the cartilage weakens and degenerates.
Types of Meniscal Tears
Radial Tears
Radial tears begin in the inner edge of the meniscus and extend outward, limiting the ability of the meniscus to absorb shock.
Lateral Meniscus Tear
A lateral meniscus tear is an injury to the cartilage on the outer side of the knee joint that cushions and stabilizes movement between the thigh bone and shin.
Horizontal Tears
Horizontal tears run parallel to the tibial plateau and may split the meniscus into upper and lower sections.
Medial Meniscus Tear
A medial meniscus tear is an injury to the cartilage on the inner side of the knee joint that helps absorb shock and support smooth movement between the thigh and shin bones.
Flap Tears
Flap tears involve a loose piece of cartilage that may catch in the joint, causing locking or popping sensations.
Complex Tears
Complex tears are common in older patients with degenerative changes.
Bucket Handle Tears
A bucket handle tear occurs when a large portion of the meniscus becomes displaced into the joint, causing locking and loss of motion.
What Does a Meniscal Tear Mean for Me?
A meniscal tear indicates damage to one of the key stabilizers of your knee and is considered one of the most common knee injuries. The impact can vary depending on whether it is an acute meniscus tear caused by a traumatic injury or a degenerative meniscus tear that develops over time. Symptoms may include knee pain, swelling, limited knee motion, or even locking of the injured knee, and while some meniscus tears heal on their own, others may require surgical treatment such as arthroscopic surgery or meniscus repair. A longitudinal tear or complex meniscal injury may be addressed through meniscal repair techniques to restore function and preserve cartilage. Because most meniscus tears affect stability and range of motion, timely evaluation and treatment are important for protecting long-term joint health.
Symptoms of a Meniscal Tear
- Pain localized to the knee joint
- Swelling and stiffness
- Locking, catching, or popping sensations
- Difficulty straightening the knee fully
- A feeling of instability when walking or pivoting
Causes of Meniscal Tears
Trauma
Sudden twisting or pivoting movements can tear the meniscus.
Degeneration
Age-related wear can weaken the cartilage, making it prone to tearing during your daily activities.
Repetitive Stress
Frequent squatting, kneeling, or heavy lifting may contribute to tears over time.
Physical Examination, Imaging Tests, and Diagnosing a Meniscus Tear
To be diagnosed, a healthcare provider will typically assess your history, perform a physical examination, and may order imaging such as an MRI to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other knee injuries.
Treatment for Meniscus Injury
Treatment for meniscal tears depends on the size, type, and location of the tear as well as your activity level. Many small or degenerative tears can be managed non-surgically with physical therapy to restore your knee strength and mobility. Larger or more complex tears that cause locking or persistent pain may require surgery, which could involve trimming the damaged portion or repairing the cartilage with sutures to preserve the torn meniscus.
Why Choose Physical Therapy
Physical therapy helps both surgical recovery and non-surgical management of meniscal tears. Our exercises focus on reducing swelling, improving flexibility, and strengthening muscles around the knee. By restoring stability and motion, physical therapy helps you return safely to daily activities and lowers the risk of re-injury.
Contact Us
If you are struggling with a meniscal tear, contact Resilient Performance Physical Therapy today. We have locations in Flatiron, Rye, Boonton, Chatham, Wharton, and Darien.
