The meniscus plays an essential role in protecting the knee joint by acting as a natural shock absorber. A tear in this cartilage can occur because of sports injuries, sudden twisting movements, or gradual wear associated with ageing. While many people recover with conservative treatment, others may require Meniscus Surgery depending on the severity and location of the tear.
Knowing when surgery is appropriate begins with understanding the symptoms and available treatment options.
What Causes a Meniscus Tear?
Meniscus injuries commonly result from:
- Sudden twisting of the knee
- Sports involving rapid direction changes
- Squatting while carrying weight
- Degenerative changes with age
- Previous knee injuries
The type of tear often influences treatment recommendations.
Symptoms That May Suggest a Meniscus Injury
Common signs include:
- Knee pain
- Swelling
- Locking of the joint
- Clicking sensations
- Difficulty straightening the knee
- Reduced flexibility
- Pain while squatting
Persistent symptoms deserve evaluation by an orthopaedic specialist.
When Is Surgery Considered?
Surgery may be recommended when:
- Conservative treatment fails
- The knee repeatedly locks
- The tear is unstable
- Daily activities remain restricted
- The patient wishes to return to high-level sports
- Associated ligament injuries are present
The decision is based on clinical findings and imaging rather than MRI results alone.
Treatment May Not Always Involve Surgery
Many patients improve with:
- Physiotherapy
- Activity modification
- Muscle strengthening
- Pain management
- Gradual rehabilitation
A personalised treatment plan helps determine the safest and most effective approach.
Questions to Ask Your Orthopaedic Surgeon
Before deciding on surgery, patients should ask:
- What type of tear do I have?
- Can rehabilitation alone help?
- What are the benefits of surgery?
- How long is recovery?
- When can I resume sports or work?
Meniscus Treatment in Bengaluru
People with persistent knee pain or locking symptoms should seek a proper diagnosis before delaying treatment. In Bengaluru, Rapha Sports & Regenerative Orthopaedics evaluates meniscus injuries using clinical assessment and appropriate imaging to determine whether rehabilitation or Meniscus Surgery offers the best path toward restoring knee function.
