Meniscus Tear
The meniscus works like a car tire for the knee.
Located between the shinbone and thighbone, it transfers and supports load, absorbs shock, keeps the joint stable and aligned, and lubricates the joint to prevent wear. There is a half-moon-shaped meniscus on the inner and outer side of each knee.
Common causes
01
Twisting the knee in sports such as soccer or basketball
02
Work or sports in a squatting position, or slipping
03
Natural degeneration
Signs to watch for
- Chronic swelling and knee pain without a clear injury
- The knee gives way when walking, with pain in the lower knee
- Difficulty fully straightening or bending the knee
How we diagnose
X-ray
The basic first test. Further tests may be added for a definite diagnosis.
MRI
Shows soft tissue that X-ray cannot, such as muscles, ligaments, discs, cartilage, nerves and blood vessels.
How we treat it
Partial tears and tears on the outer edge can be treated conservatively. Tears on the inner part usually need surgery.
Prolotherapy
Under live ultrasound guidance, a growth-promoting solution is injected into weakened ligaments and tendons. The controlled healing response it triggers promotes self-repair and strengthens the tissue.
Manual & exercise therapy
A specialist physical therapist uses hands-on techniques based on anatomy, such as relaxation methods and joint mobilization, to reduce pain and improve function.
Arthroscopy
Through a minimal incision under about 5 mm, an arthroscope with a tiny camera and special instruments is inserted into the joint. It shows areas that are hard to see on X-ray, allowing accurate diagnosis and treatment at the same time.
When surgery is consideredThe meniscus cannot heal itself, so depending on the shape, extent and symptoms, the damaged part is trimmed or repaired surgically.