A torn meniscus is one of the most common knee injuries, often causing pain, swelling, and limited mobility that can interfere with sports, work, and daily life. Left untreated, a meniscus tear can lead to long-term instability and increase the risk of arthritis.
At Angelo Mattalino, MD in Scottsdale, AZ, we specialize in diagnosing and treating meniscus injuries with compassionate care, helping patients return to active, pain-free living.
What is a Meniscus Tear?
A meniscus tear is a knee injury that happens when the meniscus, a C-shaped pad of cartilage inside the joint, becomes damaged. This structure serves as a cushion between the thighbone (femur) and shinbone (tibia), helping the knee absorb impact, stay stable, and move smoothly. When torn, the meniscus can no longer function properly, often leading to pain, swelling, and limited mobility.
Types of Meniscus Tears
Meniscus tears are generally categorized into two main types based on how they occur: acute and degenerative. Understanding the difference between these types helps guide treatment:
Acute Meniscus Tears
These happen suddenly, typically resulting from trauma or injury. They’re common in athletes and often occur during sports that involve twisting, pivoting, or sudden stops. Symptoms appear quickly and may include pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the knee.
Degenerative Meniscus Tears
These develop gradually over time as the cartilage weakens due to age or conditions such as arthritis. They are more common in older adults and may happen during simple, everyday movements. Symptoms are often more subtle at first, with intermittent pain, stiffness, or swelling.
Common Causes of Meniscus Tears
Here are the common causes of meniscus tears:
- Sudden twisting or pivoting movements during sports like basketball, soccer, or tennis
- Deep squatting or kneeling that puts pressure on the knee joint
- Lifting heavy objects in a way that strains the knee
- Awkward landings from a jump or sudden change in direction
- Age-related degeneration, where cartilage weakens over time
- Everyday movements such as standing up, kneeling, or climbing stairs in older adults
- Arthritis or other joint conditions that wear down cartilage and increase vulnerability
Symptoms of Meniscus Tears
A meniscus tear can cause more than just discomfort. It often affects your ability to move, exercise, or even perform everyday tasks. While symptoms can vary depending on the severity and location of the tear, many patients experience:
- Sharp or persistent knee pain, especially with twisting or pivoting motions
- Swelling and stiffness that often appear within the first day or two after the injury
- Trouble straightening the leg fully, sometimes accompanied by a tight or restricted feeling
- Locking or catching of the knee joint, as if something is stuck inside
- A popping sound or sensation at the moment of injury
- Knee instability, with the joint feeling weak or as though it might give out
- Decreased range of motion, making it harder to bend or extend the knee normally
Recognizing the signs of a meniscus injury early is crucial for obtaining an accurate diagnosis and the appropriate treatment plan.
What Happens If a Meniscus Tear Is Left Untreated?
Leaving a meniscus tear untreated can lead to worsening symptoms and long-term knee problems. While minor tears may initially cause only occasional discomfort, prolonged use of the joint can lead to the injury progressing.
Beyond daily discomfort, an untreated tear can also accelerate wear and tear on the knee joint. Without a healthy meniscus to cushion and stabilize the knee, the cartilage and bone surfaces may be exposed to more stress, raising the risk of early-onset arthritis.
Over time, this can result in chronic pain, joint instability, and even the need for more extensive surgical procedures. Seeking timely evaluation and treatment is the best way to protect long-term knee health and mobility.
How Meniscus Tears Are Diagnosed
At our orthopedic clinic, we employ a comprehensive diagnostic approach to confirm a meniscus tear and determine the most suitable treatment plan. Your evaluation may include:
- Physical examination: We will assess for tenderness, swelling, and joint stability, often using specific maneuvers, such as the McMurray test, to detect pain or clicking in the knee.
- Medical history: A review of your symptoms, activity level, and the circumstances surrounding the injury helps identify whether the tear is likely to be acute or degenerative.
- Imaging tests:
- MRI to provide detailed images of the meniscus and surrounding soft tissues
- X-rays to rule out fractures, arthritis, or other bone-related issues
Early and accurate diagnosis is crucial for selecting the most effective treatment, whether that involves conservative management, meniscus repair, or partial meniscectomy.
What Is Meniscus Repair Surgery?
Meniscus repair surgery is a procedure designed to treat damage to the meniscus, the cartilage that cushions and stabilizes the knee joint. Depending on the severity of the injury, treatment may involve:
Surgical Repair
In this procedure, the torn edges of the cartilage are stitched together using sutures or anchors. This allows the meniscus to heal naturally over time, preserving its important function as a shock absorber. Meniscus repair is often recommended for younger, active patients or for tears located in the “red zone,” where blood supply is strongest and healing potential is higher.
Partial Meniscectomy
If the tear is too large or in an area with poor blood supply, repair may not be possible. In these cases, the damaged portion of the meniscus is carefully removed while keeping as much healthy tissue as possible intact. This approach relieves pain and restores function while still maintaining some cushioning for the knee joint.
Total Meniscectomy
In rare, severe cases where the meniscus is extensively damaged and cannot be saved, the entire cartilage may need to be removed. While this can provide relief from pain and mechanical symptoms, it also increases the risk of future joint problems, such as arthritis. Because of this, total meniscectomy is generally considered a last resort when no other treatment option is viable.
Preserving as much of the meniscus as possible is often preferred, since it plays a key role in protecting the knee from long-term wear and arthritis.
What to Expect During Meniscus Repair Surgery
Before Surgery
Before meniscus repair surgery, you’ll have a full evaluation that may include imaging tests like an MRI or X-rays to confirm the extent of the damage. We will review your medical history, explain the surgical options, and provide instructions for preparation, including fasting, discontinuing certain medications, and arranging for someone to drive you home. You may also meet with a physical therapist to discuss your rehabilitation plan.
During Surgery
Meniscus repair is typically performed arthroscopically or with a small open incision. The surgeon inserts a tiny camera and specialized tools into the knee to view and repair the meniscus.
Depending on the severity of the tear, we may stitch the tissue together with sutures or anchors, or perform a partial or total meniscectomy if repair isn’t possible. The procedure usually takes about one to two hours and is often done under regional or general anesthesia.
After Surgery
Following surgery, you’ll spend some time in recovery before being discharged the same day in most cases. Your knee will likely be wrapped or braced, and you may need crutches to limit weight-bearing for several weeks.
Swelling, stiffness, and mild discomfort are common early on, but your care team will provide pain management strategies and detailed aftercare instructions. Physical therapy plays a crucial role in recovery, helping to restore mobility, strength, and stability over the following months.
Frequently Asked Questions About Meniscus Repair
What’s the difference between a meniscus repair and a meniscectomy?
A meniscus repair involves stitching the torn cartilage back together, allowing it to heal naturally. This option preserves the meniscus and provides long-term joint protection.
A meniscectomy, on the other hand, involves removing part or all of the damaged cartilage. While it may offer faster pain relief, removing tissue increases the risk of future joint problems like arthritis. Surgeons prefer repair whenever possible, but the choice depends on the type and location of the tear.
How painful is meniscus repair surgery?
Discomfort is common after surgery, especially in the first few days, but pain is usually well-managed with medication, icing, and rest. Most patients describe the pain as moderate rather than severe, and it improves steadily as healing progresses. Following your surgeon’s aftercare instructions—such as elevating your leg and starting gentle exercises at the right time—helps minimize discomfort and speed recovery.
What risks are associated with meniscus repair?
As with any surgery, there are potential risks, including infection, stiffness, nerve injury, or blood clots. There’s also a chance the meniscus may not heal fully, especially if the tear is in an area with poor blood supply. Fortunately, serious complications are rare, and the benefits of preserving meniscus function usually outweigh the risks. We will evaluate your health, activity level, and tear pattern to determine if you’re a good candidate.
How long will it take to get back to work?
The timeline depends on the type of work you do. Patients with desk jobs may return within one to two weeks, while those with physically demanding jobs may need several months before resuming full duties.
Jobs that involve heavy lifting, kneeling, or climbing ladders require more healing time to avoid re-injury. We will help create a personalized timeline based on your recovery progress.
Can meniscus repair prevent future knee problems?
Yes, one of the key benefits of meniscus repair is preserving cartilage that cushions the knee joint. By saving the meniscus instead of removing it, patients are less likely to develop early arthritis or chronic instability.
While no surgery can eliminate the risk of future problems, meniscus repair offers the best chance of maintaining long-term knee health, especially for younger and more active individuals.
Why Choose Dr. Angelo Mattalino for Meniscus Repair?
When it comes to knee health, experience and trust are essential. For over two decades, Dr. Angelo Mattalino has helped patients recover from meniscus tears and return to the activities they love—whether that means competing at the highest athletic level or simply enjoying daily movement without pain. His approach extends beyond surgical expertise, focusing on each patient’s unique goals, recovery timeline, and overall well-being.
As a trusted orthopedic consultant for professional sports teams, elite athletes, and performance organizations across Arizona, Dr. Mattalino has earned a reputation for excellence in sports medicine and knee surgery. Patients throughout Scottsdale and Phoenix turn to him for his combination of technical precision, compassionate care, and commitment to restoring optimal joint function. With Dr. Mattalino, you can feel confident that your meniscus repair is in expert hands.
Restore Knee Function with Expert Meniscus Repair in Scottsdale & Phoenix, AZ
At Angelo Mattalino, MD, we know how disruptive a meniscus tear can be—whether it keeps you off the field, out of work, or away from your favorite activities. With more than 25 years of experience in sports medicine and orthopedic surgery, Dr. Angelo Mattalino specializes in advanced meniscus repair techniques that relieve pain, restore stability, and preserve long-term joint health. From athletes recovering from sudden injuries to active adults managing knee damage, our care is designed to meet your individual needs and goals.
Conveniently located in Scottsdale and proudly serving patients across the greater Phoenix area, our clinic offers a comprehensive approach that blends surgical expertise with personalized rehabilitation strategies. If you’re ready to move without pain and return to the activities you enjoy, contact us today to schedule your personalized meniscus repair consultation with Dr. Mattalino.
