Summary

A meniscus tear is a common cause of knee pain. A tear can happen following an injury or develop gradually due to ageing. It’s a common injury in active individuals and those in jobs that require frequent squatting and kneeling. 

Studies in the United States have reported an incidence rate of approximately 61 per 100,000 people in the general population¹.

Often, meniscus tears don’t need surgery. Instead, treatment focuses on reducing pain, restoring movement and improving knee strength and stability through physiotherapy and rehabilitation. The White House Clinic offers expert care across 14 locations in South Yorkshire, North East Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire.

An overview of meniscus knee tears

The knee joint contains two menisci. Their role is to absorb shock, distribute load and help stabilise the knee during movement.

When this cartilage is overstressed or weakened, it can cause a tear. Traumatic tears often happen during twisting or pivoting movements, while degenerative tears develop gradually. Both types can cause pain, swelling and reduced knee function.

Meniscus knee tear symptoms

Meniscus tears present with varying symptoms depending on the size and location of the injury. Symptoms may appear immediately after injury or develop gradually over time. Common symptoms include:

• Knee pain, particularly along the joint line
• Swelling or stiffness in the knee
• Pain that worsens with twisting, squatting or stairs
• A sensation of catching, locking or giving way
• Can not fully bend or straighten the knee

Causes of meniscus tears

Meniscus tears can happen from a sudden injury or gradual degeneration. 

They are frequently associated with activities such as running, football, rugby, tennis, wrestling, skiing and basketball. It’s not always exercise and sport that cause a meniscus tear. Other causes include cartilage degeneration from ageing, repetitive knee movements, kneeling, and osteoarthritis. 

When to see someone for a meniscus knee tear

You should seek professional advice if knee pain persists, swelling does not settle, or the knee feels unstable or locked. Many meniscus tears improve with appropriate exercise and activity modification rather than surgery.

A physiotherapist can assess your symptoms and function in detail. At the White House Clinic, you don’t need a referral to book an appointment, allowing speedier access to care. 

What to do if you have a meniscus knee tear

If you suspect a meniscus tear, it is usually best to keep the knee moving within comfortable limits rather than stopping all activity. Avoid exercise and movements that significantly increase pain or swelling, such as deep squatting.

Gentle movement and progressive strengthening help maintain knee function and support recovery. A physiotherapist can guide you in safely adapting an activity.

Treatment for meniscus knee tears

Treatment aims to reduce pain, restore knee range of motion, and improve strength and stability. 

Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy helps you manage meniscus knee tears. A physiotherapist will assess knee movement, strength and control. Using the information, they’ll create a personalised rehabilitation plan to improve joint mobility, strengthen the muscles around the knee, and support a safe return to activity.

Sports knee injury management

Sports injury management helps guide recovery and return to sport. We work with amateur and professional athletes from all sports. Our experts will help with progressive overload, movement training and activity-specific rehabilitation.

Shockwave therapy

Shockwave therapy can help manage persistent pain and support tissue recovery.

Blood flow restriction training

Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) partially restricts blood flow to your muscles during exercise. Controlled restriction aids muscle recovery, reducing atrophy and preventing further injury by reducing stress on muscles, joints, and ligaments. 

Post-operative rehabilitation

If non-invasive treatments haven’t worked, you may need surgery. Post-operative rehabilitation supports your recovery, restores strength, and helps you return safely and comfortably to work, sports, and daily activities. 

Who is affected by meniscus tears?

Meniscus tears can affect people of all ages. Traumatic tears are more common in active individuals and athletes, while degenerative tears are more common in middle-aged and older adults. 

Reducing the risk of meniscus tears returning

Meniscus tears are painful and take time to heal. To reduce the risk of recurrence, you should focus on gradually strengthening the muscles surrounding the knee and hip. Speak to a professional about your form and movement during sport and get a plan tailored to your recovery and goals. Physiotherapy not only helps treat meniscal tears but also supports long-term knee health and injury prevention.

References

• ‍NHS
• ‍NCBI

 ¹ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK431067/#:~:text=Epidemiology,of%2010y/o%20are%20uncommon