What is it?

–       The meniscus is a crescent shaped fibrocartilage  structure located within the knee joint

–       There is both a medial meniscus located on the inside of the knee and a lateral meniscus located on the outside

–       The menisci’s role is to absorb shock and distribute load at the knee joint

How is it caused?

–       Most commonly meniscal injuries are from a twisting mechanism

–       Can be degenerative or traumatic

–       Degenerative tears are more common in the older population but can also be due to repetitive overload

–       Traumatic tears are more common with athletes and more commonly medial injuries

Symptoms:

–       Swelling and stiffness

–       Pain especially when trying to bend or twist the knee

–       Knee instability and giving way

–       Locking, popping or catching

What can be done to alleviate pain?

–       Rest, ice, compression , elevation

–       Strapping

–       Avoid aggravating activities

–       Guided strengthening programme to reduce meniscal overload

–       If tear is large may need MRI and onward referral to Orthopaedic surgeon for arthroscopic repair/debridement

Chances of requiring surgery?

–       Depends on size and location of the tear.  The meniscus has a poor blood supply; especially in the inner portion so if the tear is small and on the outer portion it will have a better chance of healing