The medial and lateral menisci are shock absorbers and force distributors located between the femur and the tibia. Consequently, menisci can tear due to traumatic injury or degenerative wear (e.g., in knee joint arthritis), and can compromise force distribution across the knee joint.

Aetiology:

Young patients - Often occur during twisting movements whilst playing sports

Older patients - Menisci more prone to injury, tears can occur with minor twisting movements (e.g. standing from seated with an awkward ankle twist)

Risk factors:

• Acute trauma
• Knee joint arthritis
• Knee instability
• History of ACL injury (leads to knee instability)
• Malalginment of knee joint
• Uneven/rough playing surface

PC

• Knee swelling - Usually several hours after injury, not always
• Knee pain - Varies, some experience very little pain
• Sensation of knee buckling/catching

On examination:

• Localised tenderness on the joint line