A sudden twist or repeated squatting can cause a meniscus tear. You may notice pain, swelling, or a locking of the knee. You may also hear a “clunking” sound. If not corrected, the tear can lead to more serious problems, such as arthritis.

Treatment

Possible treatments include:

• Medicine to reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
• A knee brace or support bandage to keep your knee steady and support it as it heals.
• Exercise, when prescribed, to strengthen the knee.
• Surgery to repair the torn meniscus. Once repaired, the meniscus can again cushion the knee joint. If a repair can’t be done, the torn portions will be removed. Other cartilage will take over the cushioning role. Arthroscopy is most often used for such surgeries.