Meniscus tear

3 things to know first

1. It is an injury to cartilage, not cancer. The meniscus is a rubbery shock absorber in the knee.
2. Symptoms matter more than the MRI wording. Some meniscus tears cause little or no pain, while others cause significant problems.
3. It is very common. Tears can happen during sports or simply develop as part of aging.

What it is

The meniscus is a C-shaped piece of tough cartilage that sits between the thigh bone and shin bone in each knee. There are two menisci in each knee, and they act as shock absorbers and help the knee move smoothly. A meniscus tear means the cartilage has split or frayed. Tears are often described as traumatic (from a twist or injury) or degenerative (from gradual wear).

Why it appears on your report

Meniscus tears are one of the most common reasons for knee MRI. The radiologist describes the tear so your doctor can match it with your symptoms and decide on treatment. The report may mention the location and pattern, such as a horizontal, radial, or bucket-handle tear.

How serious is it

Seriousness depends on the tear type and your symptoms:

• Small degenerative tears in older adults often cause mild symptoms and may not need surgery.
• Acute traumatic tears, especially those that cause the knee to lock or give way, may need more active treatment.
• Bucket-handle tears or large displaced tears can block knee motion and usually need prompt orthopedic evaluation.

Many people can manage well with non-surgical care, even if a tear is visible on MRI.

When to seek care urgently

Go to urgent care or the emergency department if you have:

• A knee that locks and cannot fully straighten
• Severe swelling after an injury
• Inability to bear weight on the leg
• A knee that repeatedly gives way
• Signs of infection, such as fever, warmth, and redness over the joint

What usually happens next

1. Protect and rest the knee. Ice, compression, and elevation can help reduce swelling.
2. Physical therapy. Strengthening the muscles around the knee often improves symptoms and function.
3. Activity modification. Avoid deep squats, twisting, or high-impact activities while symptoms settle.
4. Orthopedic review if needed. Persistent locking, catching, or significant pain may lead to consideration of arthroscopic surgery.

A simple analogy

Imagine a rubber washer inside a faucet. With years of use or one hard twist, a split can form. The faucet may still work fine, or it may leak and catch — it depends on the size and location of the split.

Further reading

• Mayo Clinic — Meniscus tear
• NHS — Knee pain (meniscus tear)