How is a torn meniscus diagnosed?
The patient’s history (mechanical complaints) can usually give the diagnosis of a torn meniscus. The physician should perform a careful exam to look for findings specific to a meniscus tear. Tenderness along the joint line of the painful side of the knee (medial or lateral) is consistent with both a torn meniscus and arthritis. If the patient has a positive McMurray test (moving the knee in a position to place pressure between the femur and tibia to compress the torn meniscus) this will elicit pain in a patient that has a meniscus tear. Swelling in the knee is generally a non-specific finding meaning that the knee is aggravated. X-rays should be obtained to evaluate the amount of arthritis in the knee. A torn meniscus will not appear on an x-ray and a knee with significant arthritis can still have a symptomatic meniscus tear. If the physician is unsure that a meniscus tear is present, he/she will often obtain an MRI. An MRI is sensitive for the soft tissues in the knee (menisus, ligame
