Meniscus injury is one of the most common knee injuries and affects either the inner or outer meniscus of the knee joint. The injury can cause pain, stiffness, and sometimes locking of the knee. The problems can occur suddenly at the time of injury or develop gradually over time.
What is a meniscus injury?
A meniscus injury means that one of the menisci of the knee joint has been torn or damaged. The meniscus is a cartilage disc that acts as a shock absorber and stabilizer in the knee joint and helps distribute the load between the femur and the lower leg.
When the meniscus is damaged, it can lose its stabilizing function and cause pain, swelling, and limited mobility in the knee. Damage to the medial meniscus is the most common and often causes pain on the inside of the knee, while damage to the lateral meniscus more often causes pain on the outside of the knee.
Common causes & risk factors
A meniscus injury often occurs in connection with sports or accidents where the knee joint is exposed to severe twisting force. Movements where the foot remains on the ground while the body twists can create a lot of strain on the meniscus.
Deep squatting movements or sudden changes in direction can also trigger the injury. The risk increases with age as the meniscus gradually becomes more fragile through degenerative changes.
Injuries to the medial meniscus are approximately four times more common than injuries to the lateral meniscus. Because the medial meniscus is attached to the medial collateral ligament (MCL), these structures can sometimes be injured simultaneously.
Symptoms
- Pain in the inner or outer joint space, often like stabbing pain
- Locking or difficulty fully extending/flexing the knee joint
- Local swelling over the injured area
- Stiffness and pain after activity, especially when squatting
The symptoms of meniscus damage often occur in situations where the knee joint is twisted or loaded in a bent position.
When does a meniscus injury hurt the most?
The pain of meniscus damage often occurs in situations where the knee joint is stressed or twisted.
When twisting the knee
Sudden changes in direction can create strong pressure against the meniscus.
When squatting or doing deep squats
When the knee joint is bent deeply, the load on the meniscus increases.
When strained during walking or physical activity
The pain may become more apparent when the knee is used during activity.
When the knee tries to fully extend
Some people experience that their knee locks or cannot be fully extended.
When should you seek medical attention?
If your knee is locked, has severe pain, or has persistent instability, you should have your knee examined by a medical professional. You should also seek medical attention if your knee swells significantly or if you have difficulty putting normal weight on your leg.
Recommended protection & support
In the case of a meniscus injury, the right protection and relief can contribute to increased stability and safety in everyday life and activity. A compression knee brace can help stabilize the knee joint and reduce swelling.
If instability is present, a more stabilizing knee brace with lateral relief splints can provide additional support and control. Stress on the knee joint should be minimized by avoiding deep bending and twisting.
To regain strength and function, rehabilitation with individually adapted exercises by a physiotherapist is often an important part of treatment.
See all braces and supports that can relieve pressure in case of a meniscus injury
Related injuries
- Anterior cruciate ligament injury
- Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFSS)
- Runner's knee
- Knee osteoarthritis
- Knee pain
For more information about knees, you can read more in the Injury Guide Knee. You can also go to the Injury Guide main page to read about other injuries and symptoms.
