Meniscus Tears for Providers: What to Look For, What to Measure, and How to Guide Recovery

Meniscus tears are common but not always straightforward. They may occur from acute twisting injuries or gradual degenerative changes. Symptoms can vary widely depending on age, activity level, and injury type.

Classic signs include joint line pain (often medial), clicking, catching, locking, painful weight bearing, and limited knee range of motion. Many patients also struggle with squatting, stairs, or pivoting movements.

Medial meniscus injuries are more common in chronic cases, partly because the medial meniscus is less mobile and more firmly attached within the knee.

Meniscal root tears are especially important to recognize. These injuries can significantly alter knee biomechanics and may accelerate osteoarthritis if not addressed properly.

Key exam priorities for providers: evaluate effusion, knee ROM, quadriceps strength, joint line tenderness, and meniscal tests, while also assessing functional movement like squats or hop tasks when appropriate.