ROMMER
Condition

Meniscus Tear

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What is a Meniscus Tear?

The menisci are C-shaped cartilage structures located between the femur (thigh bone) and tibia (shin bone) in the knee joint, functioning as shock absorbers and load distributors. Each knee has two menisci: medial (inner) and lateral (outer). A meniscus tear occurs either suddenly (acute tear) from twisting, bending or a blow to the knee, or gradually from repetitive stress and tissue degeneration with age (degenerative tear). Knee pain, swelling, a locking sensation and restricted movement are typical signs.

Types of Meniscus Tears

  • Longitudinal Tear: Parallel to the long axis of the meniscus; a "bucket handle" tear falls into this group and can cause the knee to lock.
  • Radial Tear: Running across the meniscus, significantly reducing its shock-absorbing capacity.
  • Horizontal Tear: Divides the meniscus into upper and lower parts; commonly seen in degenerative cases.
  • Complex Tear: A tear present in more than one plane.

Meniscus Tear Rehabilitation at ROMMER

Treatment decisions for a meniscus tear are determined by the type, size, location of the tear and the patient's age and activity level. At ROMMER, comprehensive rehabilitation is offered for both conservative and post-arthroscopic repair/partial meniscectomy cases:

  • Pain and Swelling Management: Acute symptoms are controlled with cold application, TENS and manual techniques.
  • Regaining Range of Motion: Knee flexion-extension is progressively developed within safe limits.
  • Quadriceps and Hamstring Strengthening: A muscle strengthening programme is created to provide knee stability and balance the load on the meniscus.
  • Neuromuscular Training: Proprioception and balance work minimise knee instability and the risk of re-injury.
  • Functional and Sport-Specific Exercises: A graded loading protocol is applied for return to daily activities and sport.
  • Lifestyle and Activity Guidance: Strategies for avoiding activities that place excessive load on the meniscus and joint protection are taught.

Conservative or Surgical Treatment?

Tears located in the outer 1/3, which is rich in blood vessels, can heal spontaneously and respond well to conservative treatment. Avascular tears in the inner 1/3 have low healing capacity, making surgery frequently necessary. At ROMMER, the most appropriate approach is determined on a patient-by-patient basis in coordination with orthopaedics.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is surgery always necessary for a meniscus tear?+
No. Particularly in degenerative and small tears, conservative rehabilitation can produce results equivalent to surgery. Surgery is considered in cases of knee locking, large tears or non-response to conservative treatment.
How soon can I return to sport after surgery?+
After partial meniscectomy, 6–8 weeks is recommended; after meniscus repair, 4–6 months. Post-repair rehabilitation is longer and more careful to protect the meniscus.
Does a meniscus tear lead to arthritis?+
Loss of the meniscus's shock-absorbing function can affect knee cartilage over the long term and increase the risk of osteoarthritis. Early rehabilitation and weight control are therefore important for maintaining joint health.
Is a locking sensation in the knee dangerous?+
Large tears such as bucket handle tears can cause true locking of the knee (loss of full extension). Urgent orthopaedic evaluation is required in this situation.

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