Health Topics for Bones, Joints and Muscles

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Rheumatology Clinic

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UI Spine Center

Meniscus injury to knee

The meniscus is a cartilage in the knee located between the thigh and shinbones. It acts like a gasket, to cushion the bones from each other. Damage to the meniscus is a common knee injury.

Rotating or twisting the knee can cause an injury to the meniscus cartilage. It can happen at any age. With aging, the cartilage grows weaker, and tears can occur with less force and with overuse or repeated small injuries.

The most common symptom of a torn meniscus cartilage is pain. Usually the knee feels as if it has "given out." If the tear is large enough, the knee will "lock up." A piece of the meniscus can catch in the hinge of the knee and prevent the leg from straightening or bending. If this piece moves out of the hinge, the knee will move normally right away. There may be swelling, depending on the amount of damage.

Initial treatment is to reduce the swelling and pain. Make an appointment to see a healthcare provider when there is an injury. Meniscus injuries usually do not heal without treatment.

Surgery may be required if the tear does not heal on its own. During the surgery, the meniscus may be repaired, or occasionally removed. The surgery is usually done through an arthroscope. An arthroscope is a long thin tube with a camera attached. The surgeon makes several small incisions in the knee so that the arthroscope can be put into the space between the bones of the knee. The surgeon can then see into the knee joint. Using the other small cuts for small tools the surgeon will repair or remove the meniscus inside the knee joint.

Some patients are referred to a physical therapist for rehabilitation following surgery. Recovery may take 1 to 2 months. It is very important to follow the provider's advice. Full recovery can be expected.

To help prevent knee injuries:

• strengthen the thigh and hamstring muscles
• stretch muscles before and after exercise
• wear the proper footwear for the physical activity and
• follow the provider's advice if there has been a previous knee injury

Last Reviewed 2005

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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