Meniscus tear – exercises to avoid surgery

• A tear in the knee’s meniscus causes localised pain and usually some swelling
• Pain is often sharp or catching with a residual ache
• The most common cause of tears and the trigger for further episodes is a compressive load with rotation (weight-bearing while twisting)

TIPS 

• Wearing supportive shoes will reduce twisting forces on the knee during the recovery phase
• Avoid activities with excessive rotation thru the knee, such as walking on sand or agility sports in studded boots
• Anti-inflammatory meds can potentially cause more swelling in the first few days after a tear as they increase bleeding

MYTHS 

• Elevation of the leg to reduce swelling is ineffective as the fluid is contained inside the joint capsule
• Meniscus tears do not heal so you’ll be prone to further episodes if the knee is twisted while weight-bearing
• Surgery for meniscal tears doesn’t improve your outcome and usually isn’t required unless your tear is causing locking of the knee or you’re not responding after a few months of a strength program