What it is
Each knee has two menisci — the inner (medial) and outer (lateral) — that act as shock absorbers between the thigh bone and shin bone. Meniscus tears can occur acutely during sports or activities involving squatting and twisting, or chronically due to degeneration with age.
Common symptoms
- Pain along the joint line
- Clicking or catching sensation
- Knee locking or difficulty fully straightening
- Swelling that develops over 24-48 hours
- Difficulty with squatting or twisting
When to see a specialist
If symptoms persist despite initial rest and simple measures, are severe, or are affecting daily activities, an assessment can help clarify diagnosis and treatment options. Bring any previous imaging or notes to your consultation.
Treatment considerations
Treatment depends on the tear pattern, size, location, patient age, and activity level. Peripheral tears with good blood supply may be repaired arthroscopically. Central tears may require partial removal (partial meniscectomy). Some tears in older patients respond to structured physiotherapy.
⚠ When further assessment is important
Contact us if you experience severe pain, sudden loss of function, fever, unexplained weight loss, or any concerning new symptom. Not every condition requires surgery — treatment is decided together after clinical examination and imaging review.
Dr. Vijay Chandar R.
15+ years of clinical practice with a focus on knee replacement, ACL and sports knee injuries, arthroscopy and shoulder surgery. Consultations at VBJ Bone & Joint Clinic, Kanakapura Road. Read full profile →
Explore treatment and rehabilitation
Read about the care options related to this condition. The appropriate treatment depends on your assessment; not every condition requires surgery.
Related information
Need an orthopaedic assessment?
Bring any recent X-rays, MRI reports or medical reports. We’ll examine you, review your imaging and recommend an appropriate treatment path.