Meniscus Tears

The meniscus is a C-shaped cartilage structure that cushions and stabilizes the knee joint. It acts as a shock absorber between the thigh bone (femur) and shin bone (tibia). Tears commonly occur during twisting movements, especially when the foot remains planted while the body rotates. Although athletes are at higher risk, meniscus tears can also develop gradually due to age-related degeneration.

How Meniscus Tears Occur

Acute meniscal injuries typically result from sports activities such as football, cricket, badminton, or basketball. In contrast, degenerative tears often affect middle-aged or older individuals and may occur during simple activities like squatting or standing up.

In younger patients, meniscus tears frequently occur alongside ligament injuries such as ACL tears. However, in older adults, degeneration weakens the cartilage over time, making it more susceptible to tearing even with minor stress.

Symptoms of a Meniscus Tear

Patients often experience pain along the joint line, swelling, stiffness, and difficulty bending or straightening the knee. In some cases, mechanical symptoms such as catching, locking, or clicking may occur.

A displaced tear, such as a bucket-handle tear, can prevent full knee extension. Additionally, repeated inflammation may lead to quadriceps weakness and reduced functional stability.

• Knee pain during bending or squatting
• Locking or catching sensation
• Swelling and stiffness
• Difficulty straightening the knee fully

Types of Meniscus Tears

Meniscus tears are classified based on their pattern and location. Common types include longitudinal, radial, horizontal, flap, and complex tears.

The blood supply significantly influences healing potential. Tears in the outer “red zone” have better healing capacity due to improved circulation. Conversely, tears in the inner “white zone” have limited blood supply and often require surgical management.

Long-Term Risks if Untreated

If left untreated, significant meniscal damage can increase joint surface pressure and accelerate cartilage wear. Over time, this may contribute to early osteoarthritis.

Because the meniscus plays a critical role in load transmission and shock absorption, preserving healthy tissue remains essential for long-term knee health.

Our Approach

After detailed clinical evaluation and imaging confirmation, treatment is tailored to the tear type, location, and patient activity level.

• Conservative treatment for small, stable tears
• Arthroscopic meniscus repair to preserve natural cartilage
• Partial meniscectomy when repair is not feasible

Goal

Preserve knee function, reduce pain, and prevent early degenerative changes while enabling a safe return to activity.

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