Orthopaedics, by video or in person
Meniscus Tear (Torn Knee Cartilage)
The signs, the danger signs that mean hospital now, and how to see a doctor by video from anywhere in Nigeria.
Signs to look for
Meniscus Tear (Torn Knee Cartilage)
- Pain on the inner or outer side of the knee
- Swelling that comes on over a day after a twist
- Catching or clicking when the knee bends
- The knee locking, so that it will not straighten fully
- Pain when squatting, kneeling or turning
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The menisci are two rubbery C-shaped cushions of cartilage between the thigh bone and the shin bone. A meniscus can tear when the knee twists while the foot is planted, in football or a fall, or wear and tear slowly after 40, sometimes from simply squatting. Many tears, especially wear-related ones, settle with physiotherapy. A tear that makes the knee lock, or a tear in a younger knee that can be stitched, is treated with keyhole knee surgery. It often happens together with an ACL tear, so a knee that also gives way needs checking for both.
Medically reviewed by Dr Debo Odulana, Founder and Chief Executive, Mezo. Last reviewed . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Care is decided with you after an examination.
Symptoms
- Pain on the inner or outer side of the knee
- Swelling that comes on over a day after a twist
- Catching or clicking when the knee bends
- The knee locking, so that it will not straighten fully
- Pain when squatting, kneeling or turning
- The knee giving way
When to See a Doctor
Go to a hospital the same day for a hot, red, swollen knee with fever, which can be an infected joint, or for a knee that is deformed or cannot take any weight after an injury. See an orthopaedic surgeon promptly if the knee is locked and will not straighten, because a torn piece may be stuck in the joint and is best treated early. See a doctor if knee pain or swelling after a twist has not settled within two to three weeks. Avoid having the knee massaged or manipulated by a bone-setter.
Treatment options
- Rest, ice and pain relief in the first days, keeping the knee moving
- Physiotherapy to strengthen the thigh and hip muscles
- An MRI scan to show the tear and check the ligaments
- A steroid injection in some wear-related tears with arthritis
- Knee arthroscopy to repair the tear, or trim a torn piece that cannot be repaired
- Treating an ACL tear at the same time, where present
What it costs on Mezo
Starting cash prices for the treatments used for this condition.
Common Questions
Can a torn meniscus heal without surgery?
The outer edge of the meniscus has a blood supply and small tears there can heal. Many wear-related tears never heal but stop hurting with physiotherapy. A locked knee, or a large tear in a young knee, usually needs surgery.
Is it better to repair or remove a torn meniscus?
Repair is preferred where the tear allows, because the meniscus protects the knee from arthritis. Some tears cannot be stitched, and only the torn part is trimmed, keeping as much as possible.
Is arthroscopy useful for an old, painful knee?
Usually not when the main problem is arthritis. Washing out or trimming an arthritic knee rarely helps for long. Arthroscopy helps most when a torn piece catches or locks the knee.
Need Help?
A bone and joint surgeon on a video call, who goes through your scans and says whether physiotherapy, an injection or surgery is right.
See an orthopaedic surgeon by videoIf any of the danger signs on this page applies, go to the nearest hospital now instead.
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The guidelines and patient information this page is checked against. Care in Nigeria follows the same evidence; what differs is the price and where it is done.
- Meniscus tear (knee cartilage damage). NHS. Patient information.
Links last checked 3 November 2026.
Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.