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Dr Tabane MoagiSpecialist Orthopaedic Surgeon

Condition

Meniscus tear

A tear in one of the two C-shaped cartilage cushions inside the knee.

What it usually feels like

  • Pain on twisting or squatting
  • Swelling a day or two after the injury
  • Catching, or a knee that will not fully straighten

Common causes

  • A twisting injury in sport
  • Degenerative tearing in an older knee
  • Deep squatting or kneeling

Treatment

How this is treated

Treatment starts with the least invasive option that is likely to work.

  1. Step 1

    Many tears settle with rest, physiotherapy and time

  2. Step 2

    Arthroscopic repair where the tear is repairable

  3. Step 3

    Trimming the torn part where repair is not possible

See related treatmentsBook a Consultation

Do not wait

When to be seen urgently

  • The knee is locked
  • You cannot bear weight

This page is general health information, not a diagnosis. Only an examination can tell you what is wrong with your joint.

If you need help now

Outside consulting hours, report to the Casualty Department at Netcare Ferncrest Hospital or Life Peglerae Hospital in Rustenburg. If the injury is life-threatening, call 10177 immediately. Please do not use the enquiry form for an emergency.

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