For tears of the knee's shock-absorbing cartilage, from sporting twists or gradual wear.
Each knee has two menisci — C-shaped pads of cartilage that cushion and stabilise the joint. In younger people they usually tear from a twisting injury; in older people, tears often develop gradually as the cartilage weakens with age.
Where possible, the aim of treatment is to preserve the meniscus, because it protects the knee's cartilage over the long term.
Many tears — particularly gradual, age-related ones — settle with physiotherapy, activity changes and pain relief.
Arthroscopy is considered for a knee that locks, for tears likely to heal if repaired, or when symptoms persist despite non-surgical treatment.
Meniscus surgery is performed arthroscopically through small incisions. Depending on the type and location of the tear, the meniscus is either repaired with stitches, or the torn, unstable portion is carefully trimmed while preserving as much healthy meniscus as possible.
Recovery depends on whether the meniscus is repaired or trimmed. A repair needs protected rehabilitation to allow healing, while recovery after trimming is generally quicker. Your physiotherapy plan is tailored to the procedure performed.
It is worth an assessment if your knee locks, keeps catching, or remains painful and swollen for more than a few weeks after an injury.
Consultations at Sahyadri (Deccan), Bharati Vidyapeeth (Katraj) and Apollo (Swargate).
