The meniscus is a C-shaped piece of cartilage in the knee that acts as a shock absorber and stabilizer between the thigh bone (femur) and shin bone (tibia). Each knee has two menisci — the medial (inner) and lateral (outer). Meniscus tears are among the most common knee injuries, occurring both in athletes and in older adults through degenerative wear.
Dr. Joe Cooper, a board-certified and fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon serving Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, and Brentwood, specializes in the full range of meniscus treatments — from conservative management to advanced arthroscopic surgery.
How Do Meniscus Tears Happen?
Meniscus tears can occur through two main mechanisms:
- Acute traumatic tears: Often seen in younger athletes, these occur from a sudden twist or pivot of the knee, frequently in combination with other injuries such as ACL tears
- Degenerative tears: More common in patients over 40, these develop gradually as the cartilage weakens with age and may occur from minimal activity or even simple movements like squatting or stepping awkwardly
Symptoms of a Meniscus Tear
- Pain along the inner or outer edge of the knee
- Swelling that develops over 24–48 hours after injury
- Stiffness and limited range of motion
- A clicking, catching, or locking sensation in the knee
- Difficulty fully straightening or bending the knee
- Feeling of the knee "giving way"
Diagnosis
Dr. Cooper performs a thorough physical examination and orders imaging — typically an MRI — to confirm the diagnosis and characterize the location, pattern, and severity of the tear. This information is critical in determining the best treatment approach.
Treatment Options
Not all meniscus tears require surgery. Treatment depends on the tear type, location, size, patient age, and activity level.
- Conservative treatment: Rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, and activity modification can effectively manage many degenerative and partial tears
- Meniscus repair: When the tear is in the outer, well-vascularized zone of the meniscus, Dr. Cooper will attempt to repair (stitch) the tear to preserve as much meniscal tissue as possible. Meniscus preservation is always preferred when feasible
- Partial meniscectomy: When a tear cannot be repaired, the damaged tissue is trimmed arthroscopically to create a stable rim. This is one of the most common orthopedic procedures performed, with excellent results for appropriate patients
Schedule a Consultation
If you're experiencing knee pain, swelling, or mechanical symptoms like catching or locking, prompt evaluation is key. Contact Dr. Cooper's office in Beverly Hills or Brentwood to schedule your appointment today.
