Meniscus Injury: Conservative Treatments or Surgery? Let’s Investigate.

Studio On. - Physio Phnom Penh

Meniscus injuries are common sources of knee pain, especially among active individuals and athletes. At my physiotherapy clinic in Phnom Penh, I frequently see patients with sharp, localized pain on the inner (medial) side of the knee. This pain is often aggravated by physical activities such as walking down stairs or intense exercise. But what’s really going on, and do you need surgery? Let’s break it down.

Diagnosing a Meniscus Injury

Meniscus-related pain can often be diagnosed through clinical examination without requiring immediate imaging. One orthopaedic tests has proven especially reliable in scientific research:

• McMurray Test: A gold standard in meniscal assessment, this test helps pinpoint the origin of the pain. Even. if this test is not perfect it can complete the physical examination and a

case history durint our initial session.

If this test reproduce the same sharp, localized pain, the diagnosis of a meniscus injury is likely confirmed—no MRI needed at first. But MRI still a gold standard superior to this test. (1)

What Happens Next? Acute vs Chronic Pain

Most meniscus injuries do not require surgery. The initial step is usually conservative treatment, especially when symptoms are in the acute phase (0–6 to 8 weeks).

Pain that lasts beyond 12 weeks is termed chronic, but this doesn’t mean it’s permanent—it’s simply a clinical term describing duration.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Surgery is rarely the first option. However, surgical intervention is recommended in one specific case:

• When there is a loose body—a fragment of the meniscus that is detached and causes a mechanical block in knee flexion.

In this scenario, you might feel a literal block or locking of the joint when bending the knee. This is a strong surgical indication, and I’ll refer you to a general practitioner or orthopedic specialist for further evaluation. (2)

Why Choose Physiotherapy First?

Conservative care, especially physiotherapy, has strong scientific backing for meniscus injury recovery. Here’s what we focus on:

• Diagnosis & Prognosis: Identifying the cause and predicting recovery time.

• Education: Learning what movements help or aggravate the condition.

• Rehabilitation Exercises: Improving flexibility, mobility, and strength in structures surrounding the meniscus.

During the acute phase, inflammation actually helps the healing process. With the right support, your body can repair itself—especially within the first 6–8 weeks.

Early rehab prevents long-term pain, reduces fear of movement, and gets you back into sports or physical activity safely and confidently.

Conclusion

Meniscus injuries don’t always mean surgery. With the right clinical assessment and a guided rehabilitation plan, recovery is not only possible—it’s expected. If you feel a sharp pain in your knee or suspect a meniscal issue, don’t wait. A proper evaluation and conservative care might be all you need.

References:

1. Gupta Y, Mahara D, Lamichhane A. McMurray's Test and Joint Line Tenderness for Medial Meniscus Tear: Are They Accurate? Ethiop J Health Sci. 2016 Nov;26(6):567-572. doi: 10.4314/ejhs.v26i6.10. PMID: 28450773; PMCID: PMC5389077.

2. Raj MA, Bubnis MA. Knee Meniscal Tears. [Updated 2023 Jul 17]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-.Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK431067/