Dr. Sanjay Barik is an experienced Orthopedic Doctor in Ramdaspeth, Nagpur. He is a qualified MBBS Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery, MS – Orthopaedics.
A meniscus tear is a common knee injury that affects the menisci, which are two crescent-shaped pieces of cartilage located between the femur (thigh bone) and the tibia (shin bone). The menisci act as a shock absorbers and help stabilize the knee joint. A tear can cause pain, swelling, and limited knee function. Here’s an in-depth look at meniscus tears, including types, causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and rehabilitation.
Like a lot of knee injuries, the meniscus tear can be painful or debilitating. Unfortunately, it’s quite common. In fact, the meniscal tear is one of the most frequently occurring cartilage injuries of the knee. Cartilage is the connective tissue that protects your joints or bones.
Types of Meniscus Tears
Meniscus tears can vary based on their location, pattern, and severity:
Types by Location:
Medial Meniscus Tear: Occurs on the inner side of the knee.
Lateral Meniscus Tear: Occurs on the outer side of the knee.
Types by Pattern:
Radial Tear: A tear that extends from the inner edge outward.
Horizontal Tear: A tear that runs parallel to the tibial plateau.
Vertical (Longitudinal) Tear: A tear that runs perpendicular to the tibial plateau.
Complex Tear: A combination of tear patterns.
Bucket-Handle Tear: A displaced tear where a portion of the meniscus forms a loop, resembling a bucket handle.
Flap Tear: A tear that causes a fragment of the meniscus to become loose.
Severity:
Partial Tear: Involves only a portion of the meniscus.
Complete Tear: Involves the entire thickness of the meniscus.
Symptoms
Symptoms of a meniscus tear can vary based on the severity and location of the tear:
Pain: Often localized to the knee joint line.
Swelling: Develops gradually over a few hours or days.
Stiffness: Difficulty bending and straightening the knee.
Locking or Catching: The knee may get stuck or catch during movement.
Instability: Feeling of the knee giving way.
Limited Range of Motion: Difficulty fully bending or straightening the knee.