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What is a Meniscus Tear? Symptoms, Treatment, and Surgery Process

A meniscus tear is the tearing of the meniscus tissue, which is located within the knee joint and ensures the balanced functioning of the knee by absorbing shocks. It is among the common orthopedic problems in Turkey, both in individuals who exercise and in the advanced age group.

What is the Meniscus?

The meniscus consists of C-shaped (half-moon) cartilage structures located within the knee joint. It protects the knee joint, ensures load distribution, and contributes to joint stability.

Symptoms of a Meniscus Tear

  • Pain in the knee

  • Swelling and edema

  • Locking of the knee

  • Limitation of movement

  • Difficulty squatting and standing up

  • Pain when climbing stairs

What Causes a Meniscus Tear?

  • Sudden pivoting movements

  • Sports injuries

  • Falling on the knee

  • Cartilage degeneration in advanced age

  • Excess weight and knee strain

How is a Meniscus Tear Diagnosed?

  • Examination by an orthopedic specialist

  • McMurray and Apley tests

  • Definitive diagnosis with Magnetic Resonance (MRI)

  • Evaluation of additional problems with X-ray if necessary

Meniscus Tear Treatment Methods

Non-Surgical Treatment

  • In small and stable tears

  • In advanced age and low activity levels

  • Medication therapy

  • Physical therapy and exercise

  • PRP, stem cell, and exosome applications

Meniscus Surgery

  • In large tears that cause locking

  • In athletes and active individuals

  • Arthroscopic (closed) surgical method

  • Meniscus repair or meniscectomy is applied

Recovery Process After Meniscus Surgery

  • Standing up on the same day

  • Returning to daily life within 1–2 weeks

  • Knee strengthening with physical therapy

  • Return to sports time is 1–3 months (may be longer in repair)

What Happens if a Meniscus Tear is Not Treated?

  • Permanent pain in the knee

  • Recurrent swelling

  • Risk of calcification (osteoarthritis)

  • Limitation of movement

Ways to Prevent a Meniscus Tear

  • Strengthening the muscles around the knee

  • Warming up before sports

  • Avoiding sudden pivoting movements

  • Use of appropriate shoes

  • Avoiding excess weight

Meniscus Tear Treatment in Turkey Turkey offers reliable solutions for Turkish patients in the treatment of meniscus tears with experienced orthopedic specialists, advanced imaging methods, and modern surgical techniques.

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