Lateral Meniscal Tear

A lateral meniscal tear is an injury to the cartilage on the outer side of the knee joint. The meniscus acts as a shock absorber and helps stabilize the knee during movement. When this cartilage is torn, it can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the knee normally. People with this injury often experience a feeling of the knee locking or catching during activity. This condition affects the musculoskeletal system and can limit daily activities and sports participation.

Lateral meniscal tear refers to a disruption of the fibrocartilaginous structure of the lateral meniscus in the knee, commonly caused by traumatic twisting injuries or degenerative changes. The lateral meniscus plays a critical role in load distribution, joint stability, and shock absorption. Tears can be classified by pattern (e.g., longitudinal, radial, horizontal) and location, which influence symptoms and treatment. Clinically, patients present with joint line tenderness, mechanical symptoms such as locking or clicking, and sometimes effusion. This injury is significant because it can lead to joint instability and predispose to early osteoarthritis if untreated. Diagnosis and management require careful assessment to preserve knee function.