What Is a Meniscal Root Tear? Treatment Options

What Is a Meniscal Root Tear? Treatment Options

Meniscal root tears are an important problem of the knee joint and can cause permanent damage if left untreated. This article explains what a meniscal root tear is, its symptoms, diagnostic methods, and current treatment options in detail.

The meniscus consists of two crescent‑shaped, cartilage‑based disk‑like structures in the knee joint. It increases joint stability, plays a key role in load distribution, and protects the articular cartilage. Meniscal roots are the areas where the meniscus attaches to the bones and are critical for the meniscus to maintain its normal function. A meniscal root tear refers to tears at these attachment points. This leads to loss of meniscal function and may cause knee pain, instability, and early osteoarthritis.

Definition, Symptoms, and Effects of Meniscal Root Tear

Meniscal root tears occur more frequently in the posterior root regions. These tears prevent the meniscus from performing its full function and increase intra‑articular pressure. When normal meniscal function is weakened, cartilage wear accelerates and the risk of early osteoarthritis rises. Symptoms typically include knee pain, swelling that worsens with squatting and stair climbing, limited range of motion, and sometimes a locking sensation. At the moment of injury, sharp pain and motion restriction may occur.

How Is a Meniscal Root Tear Diagnosed?

Diagnosis starts with a detailed clinical examination. Tenderness, swelling, decreased range of motion, and meniscal tests guide the preliminary diagnosis. Definitive diagnosis is made with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). MRI shows changes in the meniscus, the location and size of the tear, and its relationship to surrounding structures in detail. Knee arthroscopy can also be used for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.

Treatment Methods for Meniscal Root Tear

Management depends on the patient’s age, tear type, activity level, and concomitant joint problems. Early diagnosis is vital because untreated tears can lead to permanent degeneration in the knee. Treatment falls into two main groups: conservative (non‑surgical) and surgical.

Non‑Surgical Treatment Options

Conservative treatment may be preferred for small, stable, and asymptomatic meniscal root tears. Rest, exercises to preserve knee function, physical therapy, and pain control are prioritized. Short courses of nonsteroidal anti‑inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may reduce inflammation and pain. Physical therapy that strengthens the muscles around the knee contributes to joint stability. However, conservative treatment does not repair the tear itself.

Meniscal Root Tear Surgery and Postoperative Rehabilitation Process

If the tear is large, unstable, or the patient has high activity demands, surgical treatment is recommended. Today arthroscopic (minimally invasive) techniques are preferred. Root repair (reconstruction) may be performed to reattach the torn root to its bony footprint. An intensive rehabilitation program is essential after surgery. Early‑phase protocols that limit knee range of motion are applied carefully to protect the cartilage and the repair tissue. Gradual weight‑bearing is introduced and supported with muscle‑strengthening exercises. Return to sports is planned in the following months.

The goal in treating meniscal root tears is to preserve knee joint function, reduce pain, and prevent progressive joint degeneration. With modern surgical approaches and appropriate rehabilitation, successful outcomes are achieved. Collaboration with orthopedic surgeons and physical therapists is important throughout treatment.