Meniscal injuries

What are the menisci?

The menisci are two C-shaped pads of cartilage cushions that sit between the thigh bone and the shin bone in the knee. They act as shock absorbers, help distribute load, and contribute to the knee’s stability. There is one on the inner (medial) side and one on the outer (lateral) side.

What is a meniscal injury?

A meniscal injury is a tear within this cartilage. In children and young people, tears often occur after a twisting injury during sport. Some children are born with an abnormally shaped (discoid) meniscus, which is more prone to tearing.

Signs and symptoms

• Knee pain, often on one side

• Swelling, particularly after activity

• Clicking, catching or locking of the knee

• Difficulty fully straightening or bending the knee

How is it diagnosed?

Clinical examination is followed by an MRI scan, which is the best way to see the meniscus and assess the type and location of a tear.

Treatment options

Treatment depends on the type, size and location of the tear, and on the child’s age. Some stable tears settle with rest and physiotherapy. Others are best treated with keyhole surgery (arthroscopy) to repair the tear. In children and young people, preserving meniscal tissue is a priority because the menisci protect the knee over the long term, so repair is favoured over removal wherever possible.

Outlook

Children heal well, and meniscal repair has a good success rate in the young. Most return to full sporting activity following appropriate rehabilitation.

When to seek advice

If your child has persistent knee pain, swelling, locking, or a knee that will not fully straighten after an injury.

This information is for general guidance only and is not a substitute for a consultation with Mr Wadia. If you are worried about your child, please seek medical advice.