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Meniscus & cartilage
The menisci are the knee’s shock absorbers. When they tear, the right answer can be physiotherapy, a repair, or a trim — and each recovers differently.
The basics
What are the meniscus and cartilage?
Each knee has two menisci — tough, rubbery cushions that spread load and steady the joint. The ends of the bones are covered in smooth cartilage so they glide. Younger people usually tear a meniscus with a twisting injury; in older knees, tears often come with gradual wear.
Clear choices
Repair, trim, or physio?
Saving the meniscus is preferred where possible, because it helps protect the knee in the long term.
Physiotherapy first often suits…
- Wear-related tears in older knees
- Tears without locking or catching
- People who would prefer to avoid surgery
Surgery may be considered if…
- The knee locks or keeps catching
- A tear in a younger, active person may be repairable
- Symptoms continue despite a fair trial of rehab
What’s involved
How care usually goes.
Examination
Checking for locking, swelling and where it hurts.
MRI review
To see the type and position of the tear.
The plan
Rehab, repair or trimming — chosen together.
Rehab
After a repair, the meniscus needs time to heal before deep bending and twisting.
Risks, explained
What can go wrong.
Every treatment carries risk. These are the general ones; Dr Aggarwal will explain what applies to you.
- Repair not healing — sometimes needs further treatment.
- Stiffness or swelling — usually settles with rehab.
- Infection and blood clots — uncommon; precautions are taken.
What to send
Send these on WhatsApp.
- Your MRI report
- A short note on how it started and any locking
- Your age group and activity level
- Your name and town
Send to +91 84477 30708. We reply with an appointment time. We don’t give a diagnosis or treatment advice over WhatsApp. For emergencies, call 112.
Questions
Common questions.
Will a meniscus tear heal on its own?
Some do settle with rehab, depending on the type and position of the tear.
Why does repair take longer to recover from?
A repaired meniscus needs time to heal, so deep bending and twisting are limited for a while.
Patient guide
Read the guide.
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