Meniscus Tear
A plain-language overview of meniscus tear.
At a glance
- Where
- Knee (cartilage cushion)
- Common signs
- Joint-line pain, catching, locking
- Options
- Therapy, repair, or trimming
- Urgent?
- Severe pain, deformity, or numbness: seek care promptly.
For general education, not medical advice. Your own surgeon will recommend what fits your situation.
What it is
The menisci are two rubbery, C-shaped cushions between the thigh bone and shin bone that absorb shock and help stabilize the knee.
Common symptoms
- Knee pain, often along the joint line
- Swelling or stiffness
- Catching or locking
Treatment overview
Some tears improve with rest and therapy; others are repaired or trimmed arthroscopically. Dr. Gee has written on meniscus anatomy and the burden of meniscus injury in active people.
Your own surgeon will recommend what fits your situation. See Surgery & Recovery.