Understanding Meniscus Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and How Physical Therapy Restores Knee Function
Knee pain that causes catching, clicking, or deep joint discomfort is one of the most common reasons patients seek clinical treatment. Very often, the root cause is an issue with the meniscus—a vital piece of shock-absorbing cartilage inside the knee joint. Whether caused by a sudden sports turn or gradual wear and tear over time, meniscus pain can severely restrict daily mobility if left untreated. What Is the Meniscus? Each knee has two C-shaped pads of fibrocartilage—the medial meniscus (inner side) and lateral meniscus (outer side). They sit between the thigh bone (femur) and shinbone (tibia) to cushion the joint, distribute body weight evenly, and keep the knee stable during movement. Primary Causes of Meniscus Pain Meniscus tears and irritation generally fall into two primary categories: Category Cause & Mechanism Common Patients Acute Traumatic Tears Sudden twisting, pivoting, or sudden deceleration while bearing weight. Athletes, active individuals, accidental fall...