Meniscus tear, explained in 3D.

What it is

Two cushions inside the knee.

Each knee has two menisci, C-shaped pads of cartilage that sit between the thigh bone (femur) and the shin bone (tibia): one on the inner side (medial) and one on the outer side (lateral).

They spread load across the joint, absorb shock and help keep the knee stable as it bends and turns.

How it happens

A twist under load, or wear over time.

In younger, active people a tear usually comes from twisting on a bent knee with the foot planted. In older adults the meniscus can tear with everyday movements like squatting, as the tissue becomes less resilient.

People often notice pain along the joint line, swelling, stiffness, and sometimes a catching or locking feeling.

01

Peel to the structure

Slide past skin, muscle and ligaments until both menisci sit in plain view on top of the tibia.

02

Highlight the menisci

Click the medial or lateral meniscus and it lights up with a gold outline, so the patient can see exactly where the tear sits.

03

Show what rehab supports

Turn to the quadriceps and hamstrings to explain how stronger muscles share the load on the joint.

Recovery

What recovery usually involves.

Recovery depends on the type and location of the tear, the person and their goals, and is guided by a physiotherapist or surgeon. Many people do well with rehabilitation focused on strength and movement; some tears are treated surgically.

This page is general education, not medical advice.

More explainers

ACL tear, rotator cuff, ankle sprain and more, coming soon.