Meniscal TearsMeniscal tears are more common than you think. They can occur after simple twisting non-contact injuries to the knee, as well as with higher energy sporting injuries. Many patients recall a specific event when they felt something happen in their knee. Swelling often develops within the first 8 hours inside the knee joint, and walking can be difficult. This swelling may respolve with time, but the knee may still feel like something is not quite right, it may lock and catch when moved. Patient describe the sensation that they need to ‘shake out’ their knee to get it going again. A sense that the joint may ‘give way’ and buckle is commonly associated with meniscal tears.

Unfortunately, such tears rarely heal on their own, although it can happen. Most go on to become a long-lasting problem with activities. This is the most common reason to visit a physician.