How Do Meniscus Tears Affect Athletes?

The meniscus is a vital part of the knee, serving as both a shock absorber and a stabilizer. When young athletes suffer a meniscus tear, it can have lasting effects on their performance and overall knee health. These injuries are most often caused by trauma, particularly in sports that involve sudden twisting and compression of the knee, such as football, skiing, and volleyball. Meniscus tears often occur alongside other knee injuries, like ACL tears, making proper diagnosis and treatment essential.

If your athlete suffers a meniscus tear, they may experience:

• Knee pain and swelling
• A popping sensation at the time of injury
• Difficulty bending or straightening the leg
• A feeling that the knee is catching or locking

“At first, the pain might not seem severe, and an athlete may try to keep playing,” says Dr. Steven Thaxter, a knee specialist at Sierra Pacific Orthopedics. “However, continuing to play on a torn meniscus can make healing more difficult and lead to long-term knee problems.”

Many mild to moderate meniscus tears can heal without surgery. Our experts recommend:

• Resting the knee and minimizing weight-bearing activities
• Applying ice for 20 to 30 minutes every few hours over the first few days
• Using compression, such as an elastic bandage or knee sleeve, to control swelling

For more severe tears, surgery may be needed. The decision to repair or remove the torn section depends on factors like the location of the tear and the athlete’s age. While surgery often provides excellent short-term results, studies show that athletes who undergo meniscus surgery have a higher risk of developing knee arthritis later in life.

If your athlete is experiencing ongoing knee pain or think they may have a meniscus tear, early evaluation is crucial for effective treatment and recovery. Schedule an appointment with our knee specialists at Sierra Pacific Orthopedics, please call (559) 256-5200 or request an appointment online.