The knee is our largest weight-bearing joint and, as we age, the menisci naturally deteriorates, so a degenerative meniscus tear is a common knee injury in patients over 40. The knee joint’s limited range of motion also means it is at risk of strain and injury when we ask it to make sudden, twisting movements so athletes are prone to experiencing a traumatic tear.
Each knee joint has two menisci; the medial meniscus is on the inner side of the knee joint and the lateral is situated on the outside.
The medial meniscus is more susceptible to injury because it is less flexible and attached to the medial collateral ligament and joint capsule. Footballers and rugby players are prone to a traumatic tear to the medial meniscus.
The lateral meniscus is less commonly injured, but as we get older it becomes brittle and small tears can worsen over time. Once torn, you will usually experience pain on the outside of the knee when kneeling or twisting. Unfortunately, though, the blood supply to both menisci is poor so they are unlikely to heal once they are damaged.
+ What are the symptoms of a meniscus tear?
If you experience a traumatic tear, you’re likely to be aware of the injury as it happens. Typically, it is the result of a twisting movement, and you may feel a popping sensation in the knee joint. Pain and swelling will develop and, although you are usually able to walk on the knee, it may start to ‘lock’. With a degenerative tear, you will usually experience the same symptoms over time.
+ How is a meniscus injury diagnosed?
Mr David Houlihan-Burne will discuss your symptoms in full during your consultation and examine the knee joint. If required, diagnostic tests such as X-rays and an MRI may be ordered to examine the damage to the meniscus and the surrounding ligaments.
+ What are the treatment options for a meniscus tear?
Treatment will depend on the size and location of the tear, how it is affecting your ability to perform normal activities and what you’re hoping to achieve.
Non-surgical treatments will include managing the pain and swelling with anti-inflammatory medication, lifestyle changes to protect the knee joint while it heals and physiotherapy to build up strength and regain flexibility. Surgery is usually only recommended if the knee is very painful or limiting what you can do and may involve a meniscus repair or partial meniscectomy. Often a meniscus injury is accompanied by tears to the ligaments which may need repairing.
17 Fitzhardinge Street
Marylebone
London
W1H 6EQ
Rickmansworth Rd
Northwood
Middx
HA6 2JW
BMI The Chiltern Hospital
London Road
Great Missenden
HP16 0EN
One Medical House
Boundary Way
Hemel Hempstead Industrial Estate
Hemel Hempstead
HP2 7YU
