Meniscus injury
A meniscus injury occurs when the cartilage discs in the knee – the menisci – are damaged, usually by forceful twisting or squatting. The menisci stabilize and protect the knee under stress, but after the age of 40, they often become more fragile and susceptible to injury, even with minor trauma.
Symptoms of Meniscus Injury
You can usually recognize a meniscus injury by the following symptoms:
- The knee locks or gets stuck in a position
- Sharp pain when twisting or squatting
- Swelling in the knee
When and where should I seek care?
The majority of meniscus injuries heal on their own, but you should consider contacting a healthcare center if symptoms do not improve within a few days.
If you experience any of the following, you should seek urgent medical care, preferably within 24 hours:
- The knee gets stuck and cannot be straightened
- You cannot bear weight on your leg
- Swelling occurs rapidly after the injury
Call 1177 if you need advice or healthcare guidance.
Treatment of Meniscus Injury
Treatment varies depending on the extent of the injury. For minor injuries, rest combined with exercise is sufficient. Physiotherapy is often enough, but for mechanical problems like locking, surgery may be considered.
After surgery, rehabilitation is emphasized to regain strength, balance, and mobility. Light exercise is not harmful, but avoid forceful movements that stress the knee.
What can I do myself?
Gradually rebuilding the knee through appropriate loading and exercise is often effective. Avoid deep squats and sudden twisting movements initially, but incorporate reasonable increases in activity with strength and balance exercises to reduce the risk of recurrence. If you have difficulty stabilizing your knee, we recommend one of our knee braces below.
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How long does rehabilitation take?
Typical healing time is 6–12 weeks with conservative treatment. If surgery is required, it can take 3–6 months for full recovery.
Do I need an X-ray of my knee?
X-rays are not always needed for diagnosis, but can be used to rule out a fracture. In cases of uncertainty, an MRI may sometimes be used.
Can I exercise during rehabilitation?
Yes, light exercise is often beneficial – especially when focusing on strengthening thigh muscles and balance training. Exercise should be pain-free in the days following.
When is surgery appropriate?
Surgery is considered if the knee locks regularly, if the pain is severe, or if the injury does not improve with rehabilitation. Surgery usually involves arthroscopic keyhole surgery where the meniscus is repaired or damaged parts are removed.
