Menu Healthy Lifestyle Diseases & Conditions First Aid Symptoms Tests & Procedures Videos Definitions FAQs Tear of meniscusUpdated: 2017-06-13OverviewA meniscus tear is a tear in the rubbery knee cartilage that cushions the shinbone from the thighbone. The meniscus can tear with forceful twisting or rotation of the knee.SymptomsPain, swelling, stiffness, and difficulty extending the knee are symptoms.TreatmentsTreatment includes rest, ice, pain relievers, and, sometimes, physical therapy, and surgery. © 1998-2022 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research(MFMER). All rights reserved. Terms of Use