Knee Injuries

Medial Cartilage Meniscus Injury

The medial meniscus is a crescent shaped piece of cartilage found in the knee joint. There is a meniscus on the inner (medial) and the outer (the lateral) upper edges of the shin bone. The menisci absorb shock for the knee and maintain a balanced weight distribution between the shin bone and thigh bone. They are often injured by a blow to the knee, as might be experienced in a rugby or football tackle. Damaged is also inflicted if the knee is twisted improperly or as the joint degenerates with age.

If the medial meniscus is torn, pain and swelling are experienced around the inner part of the knee within one to two days of the injury. It is impossible to bend the knee fully and there may be a clicking noise when it bends. The injured person is not able to bear weight and feels pain when applying force to the knee.

When a medial meniscus injury occurs, you should apply the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) and take anti-inflammatory medication. Once the pain subsides, gentle quadriceps exercises should be done to increase mobility in the knee and maintain strength. In the case of a serious tear, surgery may be necessary.