The meniscus is a fibrocartilaginous structure that attaches to the tibial plateau, and sits between the articulating surfaces of the femur and tibia.  It provides the knee joint with increased structural integrity and cushions the joint.  The knee joint experiences forces two to three times one’s body weight while walking, and four to eight times one’s body weight while running. For this reason, it is important to have a cushioning mechanism to prevent undue stress on the joint surfaces. 

The meniscus can become inflamed, or more commonly can become torn.  This usually leads to pain, swelling and stiffness in the knee, causing difficulty during weight bearing activities (i.e. standing, walking, stairs, and squatting). The most common mechanism of injury for the meniscus is twisting the leg on a planted foot.  Physical therapy can help to reduce the impairments caused from meniscal injuries, by helping to reduce swelling and improving range of motion, and strength.

Associated Symptoms:

• Knee pain
• Knee swelling
• Knee stiffness
• Difficulty walking, ascending/descending stairs, performing bending movements.
• Clicking/catching in the knee.