Skip to main content

Speak with one of our healthcare providers now via text or video.

In young athletes, most injuries to the meniscus are a result of trauma. The menisci are vulnerable to injuries in which there is both compression and twisting across the knee. Meniscus tears are common in contact sports, like football, as well as in skiing and volleyball. It is also common for the meniscus to be injured in conjunction with other knee injuries, including tears of the ACL.

If one of your athletes has experienced a meniscus tear, he or she may notice:

  • swelling and pain in the knee
  • A popping sensation during the injury
  • Difficulty bending and straightening the leg
  •  A tendency for the knee to get stuck or locked up

At first, the pain may not be as noticeable, and an athlete may be able to continue playing. 

Mild to moderate meniscus tears can heal without surgery. Knee experts recommend that patients:

  • Rest the knee and avoid putting weight on it as much as possible
  • Ice; icing reduces pain and swelling if done for 20-30 minutes every 3-4 hours for 2-3 days following the injury 
  • Using an elastic bandage, straps, or sleeves to compress can also control swelling

However, it is important to see a knee specialist if pain and discomfort worsen. Continuing to play with a torn meniscus could have long-term effects on the ability of the meniscus to heal on its own.

In cases of more severe tears, repair of the meniscus may be necessary. The decision to repair is based on many factors, including the location of the tear and the age of the patient. In patients whose meniscus is unlikely to heal on its own, surgery to remove the torn section is recommended. Though the meniscus plays an important role in the function of the human knee, once it’s torn and unable to be repaired, many of the beneficial aspects of that structure are lost.

If you think one of your athletes has suffered a meniscus tear or other knee injury, request an appointment with a DMOS knee and sports medicine specialist.

*Disclaimer: The content of this blog is for informational purposes only. Please consult your healthcare professional for any medical questions. While we make every effort to ensure the information we share is accurate, we welcome comments, suggestions, or corrections of errors. This blog should not be used in any legal capacity whatsoever, including but not limited to establishing a “standard of care” in legal sense or basis for expert witness testimony. No guarantee is given regarding the accuracy of any statements or opinions made on this blog or website. In no way does listening, reading, emailing, or interacting on social media with our content establish a doctor-patient relationship. This blog is not medical advice. If necessary, please seek treatment immediately*

Melissa Merrifield

Skip to content