Torn meniscus

ARTICLE SECTIONS

Definition Symptoms Causes Risk factors When to seek medical advice

Tests and diagnosis Complications Treatments and drugs Prevention Lifestyle and home remedies

Definition

The knee is a complicated joint consisting of various structures, including bones, tendons and ligaments. Two C-shaped pieces of cartilage known as the menisci (plural of meniscus) curve around the inside and outside of the knee to stabilize and cushion the joint.

Any activity that causes you to forcefully twist or rotate your knee can lead to a torn meniscus. In older adults, degenerative changes of the knee may contribute to a torn meniscus.

Conservative treatment — such as rest, ice and medication — is sometimes enough to relieve the pain of a torn meniscus. In other cases, however, a torn meniscus requires surgical repair.

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Symptoms