Meniscus Tears
Not every meniscus tear follows the same pathway.
How a meniscus can tear
A tear may occur during a twisting injury or develop gradually as the meniscus changes with age. The tear’s location, shape, stability and blood supply all influence symptoms and treatment options.
The tear pattern, symptoms, knee stability and activity goals all help guide management.
On this page
02 / What to know
Symptoms and assessment
Symptoms may include joint-line pain, swelling, clicking, catching, grabbing, jamming or difficulty fully straightening the knee. Dr Fraser will review how symptoms began, examine the knee and consider whether imaging is needed.
An MRI can provide useful detail in selected cases, but findings are interpreted alongside the clinical assessment.
03 / What to know
Non-operative care
Many meniscus tears can begin with activity modification, management of pain and swelling, and a rehabilitation program to restore movement, strength and control. This can be particularly appropriate when the knee is not truly locked and symptoms are improving.
04 / Treatment options
When arthroscopy may be considered
Surgery may be discussed for a displaced or repairable acute tear, persistent mechanical symptoms, a locked knee, or pain that has not improved with appropriate non-operative treatment.
When surgery is appropriate, the aim may be to repair the meniscus or trim an unstable damaged portion. Preserving useful meniscal tissue is considered wherever the tear and circumstances allow.
07 / Important guidance
Recovery and urgent symptoms
Recovery differs between repair and trimming procedures. A repair generally requires a more protective rehabilitation period while the tissue heals. Dr Fraser will explain weight-bearing, exercises, work, driving and return-to-sport guidance for the proposed treatment.
A persistently locked knee, major swelling, deformity or inability to bear weight warrants prompt medical assessment.
Discuss your symptoms and treatment options.
The tear pattern, symptoms, knee stability and activity goals all help guide management.
Meniscus Tears FAQs
Helpful starting points before your consultation. Advice and recovery plans are always tailored to the individual.
Does every meniscus tear need surgery?
No. Treatment depends on the tear pattern, symptoms, age of the injury, associated damage and your activity goals. Many tears can begin with non-operative management.
What do locking and catching mean?
A torn or displaced piece of meniscus can sometimes interfere with smooth knee movement, causing catching, jamming or an inability to fully straighten the knee. A persistently locked knee warrants timely medical assessment.
If surgery is needed, is the meniscus repaired or removed?
Whenever surgery is appropriate, the approach depends on whether the tear is suitable for repair. Some tears can be sutured, while an unstable damaged portion may need to be trimmed.
What should I bring to my appointment?
Please bring your referral, Medicare details, relevant X-rays or scans, a current medication list and any useful reports from previous treatment or surgery. Contact the practice before your visit if you are unsure what is required.
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