Meniscus Tears: Symptoms, Treatment, and Recovery Options
Meniscus tears are among the most common knee injuries—especially in active individuals. In this video, Dr. Todd Pitts breaks down what the meniscus does, how it tears, and what treatment options are available to help you get back to doing what you love.
What Is the Meniscus?
The meniscus is a C-shaped piece of cartilage in your knee that acts like a:
Shock absorber between the femur (thighbone) and tibia (shinbone)
Stabilizer that helps the knee move smoothly—especially with twisting motions
Each knee has two menisci: one on the inside (medial) and one on the outside (lateral). Together, they support healthy joint movement and reduce wear on the bones.
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Meniscus tears can result from:
Sudden twisting or pivoting
Heavy lifting or squatting
Degeneration from arthritis
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Radial (a clean slice)
Horizontal (splits into layers)
Bucket-handle, parrot-beak, and more
Some people feel a tear right away, while others may develop symptoms gradually over time.
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You might have a torn meniscus if you experience:
Popping or catching in the knee
Locking—where the knee gets stuck in a bent position
Pain with twisting movements
Swelling or stiffness
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Depending on the location, severity, and symptoms, Dr. Pitts may recommend:
Meniscus Repair (ideal for younger patients or tears on the outer edge with good blood supply)
Done via knee arthroscopy (tiny incisions and a camera)
Uses sutures to stitch the tear
Requires about 6 weeks of non-weight bearing during healing
Partial Meniscectomy (removal of the torn portion)
Best for tears that can’t heal well
Think of it like trimming a loose thread on a sweater to keep it from unraveling
The goal is always to preserve as much of the meniscus as possible to protect long-term joint health.
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Not all tears require surgery. Dr. Pitts will evaluate:
Your age and activity level
Whether symptoms are affecting your daily life
MRI results to determine the type and location of the tear