A medial meniscus tear can occur from an awkward twist or impact, causing immediate pain and swelling. Treatment may include rest, medication, physical therapy, surgery, or a combination. Athletes are at higher risk, but falls, arthritis, obesity, and knee problems can also increase risk. Diagnosis is made through examination and imaging tests. Treatment depends on the extent of the damage. Surgery may be required for severe tears, and physical therapy is necessary for recovery.
The bones, ligaments, and muscles that meet at the knee joint are protected by a layer of cartilage tissue called the meniscus. The medial meniscus is the section that sits deep within the joint, aiding flexibility of the major ligaments. A medial meniscus tear can occur if an awkward twisting motion or direct impact puts strain on the ligaments and cartilage tissue. Such injuries usually result in immediate and severe pain and swelling. Depending on the nature and severity of a medial meniscus tear, treatment might consist of rest, medications, physical therapy, surgery, or a combination of all four.
Meniscus tears are quite common in athletes who play fast-paced, high-impact sports such as football, basketball, and soccer. A direct hit to the knee during a tackle or a sudden twist to escape a defender can stretch the ligaments and tear the meniscus. A person who does not play sports can suffer a medial meniscus tear after a bad fall. Rheumatoid arthritis, obesity, and a history of knee problems can all increase a person’s risk of a tear.
In most cases, a medial meniscus tear is immediately apparent after an injury. Swelling on the top and sides of the knee is common, and the area is usually very tender to the touch. A person may not be able to bend the knee or support weight on the injured leg. If the pain is intense, dizziness, nausea and vomiting may occur within minutes. If a serious injury occurs, the leg should be immobilized as well as possible and the person should be taken to the emergency room.
A doctor can assess the severity of a knee injury by examining the joint, asking about the injury, and performing imaging tests. X-rays and MRI scans are used to check for physical signs of damage to the ligaments and cartilage. Treatment decisions are made based on the extent of the damage and the patient’s overall health.
In the case of a relatively minor injury where the ligaments are still intact, the patient may simply be asked to rest and cool the knee for about three weeks. When the joint starts to feel better, physical therapy exercises can help restore flexibility and strength to the joint. Many people need to wear protective knee pads and limit their activity for several months to help prevent another medial meniscus tear during their recovery.
An injury that results in damage to the anterior or medial cruciate ligament usually requires surgery. A surgeon can remove damaged meniscus tissue, repair ligaments, and realign dislocated bones if needed. After surgery, most patients need to participate in physical therapy for two to six months. Some people are able to fully return to their previous level of activity, but a severe tear can potentially lead to permanent disability or chronic episodes of knee pain.
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