Menisci are crescent-shaped cartilages in the knee joint that act as shock absorbers between the thigh bone and the tibia bone. Each knee has two menisci – an inner and outer one.
Causes – how does a tear occur?
Sudden movements or injuries:
- A sudden turn or stop in motion (e.g., basketball, tennis, football).
- Knee flexion with simultaneous rotation (often in “slippery” sports).
Wear and tear over time:
- With age, the meniscus becomes more fragile – even a slight movement can cause a tear.
- Often associated with osteoarthritis .
Symptoms:
- Sudden pain in the knee (usually on the side or deep).
- Feeling of swelling and stiffness .
- A feeling that the knee is “snapping” or “clicking” .
- Limited movement.
Solutions
First aid:
- RICE method : rest, ice, compression, elevation.
- A light compression orthosis helps reduce swelling and stabilizes the joint.
Medical treatment:
- Physiotherapy – to strengthen muscles and restore movement.
- Orthoses – knee braces to limit and protect movement. You can view orthoses here.
- Surgical intervention (arthroscopy) – if the tear is large or does not heal conservatively.
How to avoid a meniscus tear?
- Avoid sudden road rotations.
- Strengthen your leg muscles – especially the front and back of your thighs.
- Use sports orthoses or knee stabilizing braces , especially during sports or after an injury.
This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical diagnosis or treatment. If you are experiencing severe or persistent knee pain , swelling, redness , or limited mobility, you should definitely consult a doctor or orthopedist . Only a specialist can make an accurate diagnosis and determine the most appropriate treatment.
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