A torn meniscus is a common knee injury that occurs when the cartilage in the knee joint tears, often due to sudden twisting or turning motions. This condition can affect anyone but is especially common among athletes and active individuals. In India, knee injuries, including meniscus tears, are on the rise due to increasing participation in sports and fitness activities. Studies suggest that knee injuries account for nearly 20-25% of all sports-related injuries in the country, with torn meniscus being a leading concern.

Experiencing sharp pain, swelling, or difficulty moving your knee? It might be time to consult a medical professional. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can prevent further damage and help you get back to your active lifestyle.

Understanding the causes of a torn meniscus can help you take steps to prevent this painful knee injury. Here are some of the most common reasons:

1. Sudden Twisting or Turning Movements: Quick, forceful rotations or changes in direction—often experienced during sports like football, basketball, or tennis—can lead to a meniscus tear. The knee’s cartilage is caught between the bones, resulting in damage.

2. Degenerative Changes: As we age, the meniscus can become worn and fragile, making it more susceptible to tears even with simple movements like squatting or stepping awkwardly. This is why meniscus tears are more common in individuals over 40.

3. Direct Impact or Trauma: A direct blow to the knee, such as during a fall, car accident, or contact sport, can result in a torn meniscus. The force of impact can cause immediate damage to the cartilage.

4. Repetitive Stress or Overuse: Repeated motions that place stress on the knee, like prolonged kneeling, heavy lifting, or high-impact activities, can weaken the meniscus over time, leading to tears.

5. Weak Muscles or Poor Conditioning: Lack of strength in the muscles surrounding the knee, such as the quadriceps and hamstrings, can lead to instability and an increased risk of injury, including meniscus tears.

Recognizing these causes can help you better protect your knees and reduce the risk of a meniscus tear, allowing you to stay active and pain-free.

A torn meniscus can make even the simplest activities painful and difficult. Understanding its symptoms is key to early diagnosis and effective treatment. Here’s what to watch out for:

1. Sharp Pain or Discomfort: Pain is often felt immediately at the time of injury, especially when twisting or rotating the knee. This pain may be localised on the inner or outer side of the knee, depending on which part of the meniscus is damaged. It can range from a dull ache to sharp, stabbing pain that worsens with movement.

2. Swelling and Stiffness: Within the first 24 to 48 hours after the injury, you might notice swelling and stiffness around the knee joint. The knee may feel “tight” or “full” due to inflammation and the accumulation of fluid, making it hard to bend or straighten.

3. Locking or Catching Sensation: A torn meniscus can cause a piece of the cartilage to move into the joint, leading to a sensation of the knee “locking” or “catching” during movement. You may feel as if your knee is stuck in a certain position and may need to manually adjust it to move freely.

4. Difficulty Bearing Weight: Walking, climbing stairs, or even standing up might become challenging due to pain and instability. You may feel your knee giving way or feel a lack of support, which can affect your balance and mobility.

5. Popping or Clicking Sounds: You might hear or feel a popping or clicking sound in your knee at the time of injury or during movement afterward. This is often due to the torn cartilage moving abnormally within the joint.

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional promptly to prevent further damage and start the healing process.