Meniscus Tear
A meniscus tear is a tear in one of the C-shaped cartilage pads inside the knee that cushion and stabilise the joint.
When to get help quickly: Most meniscus tears are not emergencies, but urgent review is sensible if the knee is locked, very swollen, or unable to bear weight after a significant injury.
Common symptoms
Common symptoms include knee pain, swelling, clicking or catching, a feeling that the knee gives way or locks, and difficulty fully straightening or bending the joint.
When imaging helps
Imaging shows where the tear is, the pattern of the tear, and whether other knee structures (ligaments, cartilage, bone) are involved.
What radiology does
MRI is the test of choice for visualising the menisci and surrounding ligaments.
What usually happens next
Treatment may include rest, physiotherapy, and pain relief; some tears benefit from arthroscopic surgery, especially when locking or persistent symptoms continue.
Seen this on your report?
Your doctor or the radiologist who wrote it can tell you what it means for you.