Meniscus Repair: What It Is, How It Works, and What to Expect

When your meniscus repair, a surgical procedure to fix a torn cartilage in the knee. It's not just a quick fix—it's a step toward getting back to walking, climbing stairs, or playing sports without pain. The meniscus is a C-shaped piece of cartilage that acts like a shock absorber between your thighbone and shinbone. When it tears—often from twisting, squatting, or even just aging—it can cause swelling, locking, or a sharp catch in your knee. Not every tear needs surgery, but when the tear is in the outer edge where blood flow is good, meniscus repair gives you the best shot at long-term knee health.

What happens during the procedure? Most meniscus repairs are done arthroscopically—tiny incisions, a small camera, and specialized tools. Surgeons stitch the tear together or use pins or anchors to hold it in place. This isn’t like removing the damaged part (which is called a meniscectomy). Repair keeps the natural cushion, which matters because studies show people who keep more of their meniscus are less likely to develop arthritis later. But here’s the catch: repair only works if the tear is in the right spot. Tears near the center, where there’s little blood, won’t heal well. That’s why your doctor will look at the location, size, and shape before deciding.

Recovery isn’t quick. You’ll need crutches for a few weeks, and you can’t put full weight on the knee right away. Physical therapy starts early—not to rush you, but to prevent stiffness and rebuild strength slowly. A good rehab plan includes range-of-motion exercises, then balance training, then strength work. Skipping PT or pushing too hard too soon is one of the biggest reasons repairs fail. You might be back to light activity in 6 to 8 weeks, but full recovery can take 3 to 6 months. And yes, some people still feel occasional stiffness or discomfort, even after a successful repair.

Meniscus repair isn’t the only option, but it’s the one that protects your knee for the long haul. If you’re young, active, and your tear is repairable, it’s usually the best call. Older adults with degenerative tears might do better with conservative care—rest, physical therapy, or injections. But if you’ve been told you need surgery and you want to stay active, repair gives you more than just pain relief—it gives you a better chance of keeping your knee healthy for decades.

Below, you’ll find real stories and guides from people who’ve been through this—from the first appointment to the last rehab session. Whether you’re considering surgery, just had it, or are helping someone recover, these posts cover what actually works, what doesn’t, and how to avoid common mistakes.