What it means
The menisci are two rubbery, C-shaped pads of cartilage between the thigh bone and the shin bone. They cushion the knee and help keep it stable. On MRI a healthy meniscus looks dark, and a tear shows as a bright line that reaches its surface. Reports name the part involved: the front horn, the middle body or the back horn. They also describe the tear's shape, such as horizontal, radial or bucket-handle, and whether a piece has moved.
When it matters
Tears from wear are very common after middle age, and many cause no pain. Doctors therefore match the scan to your symptoms and examination. Many tears improve with time and guided exercise. A referral to an orthopedic surgeon is more likely after a twisting injury, or when a torn flap has moved and makes the knee lock or catch.
Questions to ask your doctor
- Does this look like a tear from wear or from an injury?
- Has any piece of the meniscus moved out of place?
- Would exercise therapy be a reasonable first step for this kind of tear?
Read more: Meniscal Tear on MRI: What It Means, Causes, and Treatment Options
