The MRI shows a meniscus tear and your first thought is surgery? Not necessarily. Research over the last decade has changed the approach: for degenerative meniscus tears, properly conducted rehabilitation gives results comparable to arthroscopy — without surgical risks.
What is a meniscus tear?
The menisci are two crescent-shaped fibrocartilage “cushions” that absorb shock and stabilise the knee. They can tear traumatically (twisting on a planted foot — typical in sport) or degeneratively (slow wear after 40–50, sometimes with no memorable injury). The type of tear decides the treatment strategy.
Common symptoms
Pain along the joint line (inner or outer side of the knee), swelling appearing hours to days after activity, pain with twisting and deep squatting, clicking sensations, and — in larger tears — episodes of the knee locking.
Common causes
Twisting sports injuries, age-related meniscus degeneration, repetitive deep squatting, weak thigh muscles and pre-existing knee instability.
Surgery or not?
It depends on the type: degenerative tears respond to conservative treatment in most cases (solid evidence); large traumatic tears with true mechanical locking, or tears in young athletes, are surgical discussions. Even then, pre- and post-operative rehab decides the final result.
How we treat meniscus tears at Medicine Park
We assess your knee, the tear type and your goals, then build the programme: settling pain and swelling, restoring mobility, progressive quadriceps and glute strengthening, stability training and guided return to sport or activity. If your picture points to an orthopaedic consult, we tell you directly.
How long does recovery take?
Degenerative tears: typical improvement in 6–12 weeks of rehab. Post-arthroscopy: 4–8 weeks for daily activities, longer for sport.
When to seek help
If your knee stays swollen, hurts with twisting or locks, book an assessment. Your first assessment at Medicine Park is free.
