What is a Meniscus Tear?
The menisci are crescent-shaped cartilage structures located in the knee joint. There are two menisci in the knee—one on the inner side (medial meniscus) and one on the outer side (lateral meniscus). Positioned between the thighbone (femur) and the shinbone (tibia), menisci are composed of dense collagen fibers that provide elasticity and resistance to compression. These structures play a crucial role by absorbing shocks, distributing the load across a wider area, protecting joint cartilage from high pressure, and contributing to knee stability.

How Do Meniscus Tears Occur?
Although commonly seen in athletes and often referred to as a sports injury, meniscus tears can occur in individuals of all ages. These injuries typically result from sudden twisting or turning movements. In young people, the meniscal tissue is generally strong, so significant trauma is usually required for a tear to occur. However, in older individuals, degenerative changes in the menisci make them more susceptible to tearing, even from minor trauma.

What Are the Symptoms of a Meniscus Tear?
The most prominent clinical symptom of a meniscus tear is pain, which usually occurs when bending the knee. Depending on the size and location of the tear, patients may also experience locking or catching sensations in the knee. Pain may increase during activities such as climbing stairs or squatting, as these movements compress the meniscus, potentially causing locking in the bent knee.

Additionally, fluid buildup in the joint space may occur, which patients often describe as a feeling of swelling or fullness in the knee. Early diagnosis of a meniscus tear is important. If left untreated for a long time, meniscus tears can lead to instability in the knee and eventually cause cartilage damage and osteoarthritis.

What is Done in Physical Therapy for Meniscus Tears?
In cases where the meniscus tear is not complete (incomplete or partial tears), conservative treatment with physical therapy can be effective. The main goals of treatment are to reduce pain, swelling, and joint limitations, and to strengthen the muscles surrounding the knee.

Physical therapy plays a key role in controlling swelling, preventing muscle atrophy, relieving pain, and restoring the patient’s ability to perform daily activities.

Why is Post-Surgical Physical Therapy Important in Meniscus Tears?
Advanced meniscus tears are often treated with surgery. Depending on the type and location of the tear, surgery may involve meniscus repair or meniscectomy (removal of the torn part of the meniscus).

After surgery, physical therapy is crucial. The duration of therapy varies depending on the type of surgery and typically lasts 2 to 6 weeks. The primary goals of post-operative physical therapy include reducing pain and inflammation, increasing muscle strength and endurance, and helping the joint adapt and function without the support of a fully intact meniscus.

This involves the use of physical therapy modalities and a carefully planned exercise program. These exercises must be introduced gradually and tailored to the patient’s specific condition. For this reason, exercises should never be performed without proper guidance and supervision.