Introduction
Meniscal tears are a common knee injury affecting both athletes and the general population. Traditionally, surgery was often recommended, but recent research suggests that physiotherapy and conservative management can be just as effective in many cases. At Shellharbour Health, we provide expert physiotherapy for knee injuries, helping patients recover without unnecessary surgery.
In this article, we’ll explore the latest evidence on meniscal tear management and how to achieve the best recovery outcomes.
What is a Meniscal Tear
The menisci are two C-shaped cartilage structures in the knee that act as shock absorbers and provide joint stability. Meniscal tears can occur due to:
- Trauma: Common in younger athletes, often from twisting injuries.
- Degeneration: Seen in older adults due to wear and tear over time.
Common Symptoms of a Meniscal Tear
- Knee pain and swelling
- Clicking or locking of the knee
- Reduced range of motion
- Difficulty bearing weight
If you’re experiencing these symptoms, an assessment by a Shellharbour physiotherapist can help determine the best treatment plan.
Surgery vs. Non-Surgical Treatment: What Does the Evidence Say?
Conservative (Non-Surgical) Treatment as First-Line Approach
Recent studies show that physiotherapy-based rehabilitation is just as effective as surgery for many meniscal tears. A 2023 systematic review published in The British Journal of Sports Medicine found that structured exercise programs provided similar outcomes to surgery in middle-aged and older adults with degenerative meniscal tears.
Key Components of Conservative Management:
Physiotherapy: Strengthening exercises improve knee function and reduce pain.
Activity Modification: Avoiding high-impact activities while staying active (e.g., cycling, swimming)
Pain Management: Ice, NSAIDs, and gradual load progression Injections: Corticosteroid or PRP injections may provide short-term relief.
At Shellharbour Health, we specialize in evidence-based physiotherapy for knee pain, tailoring treatment plans to each patient.
When is Surgery Necessary?
While physiotherapy is effective in most cases, surgery may be required for:
- Severe traumatic meniscal tears causing knee locking.
- Persistent symptoms despite physiotherapy (after 3–6 months).
- Repairable tears in younger, active patients, where meniscal repair is possible.
A 2024 study in The American Journal of Sports Medicine found that meniscal repair is preferable to meniscectomy (removal) to reduce long-term knee arthritis risk.
The Role of Physiotherapy in Meniscal Tear Recovery
At Shellharbour Health, our physiotherapists use evidence-based rehab programs to help patients recover from meniscal injuries, whether managed conservatively or post-surgery.
Phase 1: Early Pain Management & Load Control
- Isometric quadriceps exercises to maintain strength without aggravating symptoms.
- Relative rest while avoiding deep squatting or twisting.
Phase 2: Strengthening & Neuromuscular Training
- Quadriceps, hamstring, and glute strengthening.
- Balance and proprioception exercises to prevent re-injury.
Phase 3: Return to Sport & Function
- Gradual reintroduction of running, jumping, and sport-specific drills.
- Plyometric and agility training when strength and control are restored.
A 2023 meta-analysis in Sports Medicine confirmed that physiotherapy-based rehabilitation can achieve outcomes equal to or better than surgery for many meniscal tears.
Key Takeaways
- Physiotherapy is the first-line treatment for most meniscal tears.
- Structured exercise programs are as effective as surgery in many cases.
- Meniscal repair is preferable to meniscectomy when surgery is required.
- Shellharbour Health provides expert physiotherapy for meniscal injuries to help patients recover without unnecessary surgery.
If you’re experiencing knee pain or have been diagnosed with a meniscal tear, book an appointment with our experienced Shellharbour physiotherapists today.
Book Your Physiotherapy Appointment
Contact Shellharbour Health to start your recovery journey.
Location: Shellharbour Health Clinic
Phone: 02 42 954698
Email: [email protected]
