Symptoms of Meniscus Injury

The meniscus is a cartilage structure in the knee that cushions and stabilizes the joint. It is often injured due to intense exercise, accidental twisting, or age-related degeneration. Younger groups such as athletes and fitness enthusiasts are more likely to suffer from trauma-related injuries, while middle-aged and elderly individuals often develop degenerative tears, making them a high-risk population.

In Western countries such as the United States, Canada, and Germany, the incidence of meniscus injury remains high due to a strong sports culture. In Southeast Asian countries such as China, Thailand, and Singapore, cases have also increased significantly in recent years, closely related to sedentary urban lifestyles and aging populations, creating ongoing diagnostic and treatment pressure.

Detailed Symptoms of Meniscus Injury

1. Knee Joint Pain

Persistent dull pain occurs on the inner or outer side of the knee, which is the most common symptom, especially aggravated by climbing stairs, squatting, or standing up. Initially, the pain may be intermittent, but as the injury worsens, it can develop into continuous discomfort.

2. Restricted Knee Mobility

There is obvious resistance when straightening or bending the knee, with reduced range of motion. This is especially noticeable in the morning or after prolonged sitting. Such symptoms often indicate deeper meniscus tears affecting joint function.

3. Joint Locking or "Giving Way"

Some patients suddenly feel the knee "lock" or become unstable during movement, sometimes accompanied by clicking sounds or inability to fully extend, commonly known as the knee "giving way." This is usually caused by a torn meniscus fragment getting caught in the joint space.

4. Knee Swelling or Effusion

Due to local inflammatory reactions, joint effusion or mild swelling may occur, with a tense sensation upon palpation. Recurrent effusion increases joint pressure, further damaging the meniscus and cartilage.

5. Pain Worsening at Night

Some patients experience more obvious knee pain at night or in cold weather, affecting sleep quality. This is often related to synovial irritation, impaired intra-articular fluid circulation, and heightened nerve sensitivity.

6. Symptoms Exacerbated After Activity

After running, climbing, or strenuous exercise, knee pain and swelling worsen, indicating the joint is under stress and possibly has meniscus tears or cartilage damage.

7. Abnormal Walking Posture

To reduce discomfort, some patients habitually shift weight to the unaffected side while walking, leading to abnormal gait. Over time, this may increase the burden on other joints, such as the hip or spine.

8. Sensitivity to Weather Changes

Some patients are sensitive to weather changes, experiencing obvious soreness in the knee during cold or damp conditions. This is more common in degenerative meniscus injury patients.

Conclusion

Experts from United Life International Medical Center point out that symptoms of meniscus injury are often overlooked in the early stages. Once recurrent knee pain, locking, or effusion occurs, medical evaluation should be sought promptly. Stem cell therapy and other modern methods provide new directions for early intervention, helping patients relieve symptoms and restore joint function. Scientific recognition of symptoms and timely treatment are key to preventing further deterioration of the injury.