Understand
What is a meniscus tear?
The menisci are two crescent-shaped cushions of cartilage between the thigh bone and the shin bone. They absorb shocks and stabilise the knee. A tear happens either during a twisting movement, typically in football, skiing or tennis, or through gradual wear, usually after the age of 40.
Not all tears are treated the same way: a degenerative tear usually improves with active rehab, whereas a traumatic tear in a young athlete, especially if the knee locks, sometimes needs a surgical opinion.
See a doctor promptly if…
- The knee is locked: you cannot fully straighten or bend it
- The knee swells a lot within hours of the injury
- The knee gives way, or you cannot put weight on your foot
Common causes
- Sudden twisting of the knee (sport)
- Progressive age-related wear
- Often associated with early osteoarthritis
Symptoms
- Pain along the joint line
- Locking or catching sensation
- Swelling after exertion
Timeline
How long does a meniscus tear take to heal?
These are guidelines: they depend on the size and location of the tear, your age and your sport. The first assessment lets us refine them.
- Degenerative tear, rehab only
- 6 to 12 weeks
- Traumatic tear treated without surgery
- 6 to 12 weeks
- After a partial meniscectomy
- 4 to 8 weeks
- After a meniscus repair, pivoting sports
- 4 to 6 months
Diagnosis
Our approach
The first step is always a medical consultation. Complementing this: clinical meniscal tests (McMurray, Apley) by the physiotherapist. MRI with Dr Massimo Donalisio to confirm the type and location of the tear.
Care at Off-Field
- Physiotherapy (mobility, offloading depending on phase)
- Physical preparation (progressive strengthening)
- In coordination with Dr Massimo Donalisio when indicated: injection if needed, surgical referral for clear mechanical locking beyond the scope of conservative care
Rehab
Meniscus rehab, step by step
- 01
Settle the knee
Reduce pain and swelling, regain full extension and a normal walk. Activities are adapted, without immobilising the knee.
- 02
Rebuild strength
Progressive strengthening of the thighs and hips, stationary bike, balance work.
- 03
Load the knee
Deeper squats, lunges, step-ups, then straight-line running once the knee no longer swells after exercise.
- 04
Return to sport
Changes of direction, jumps and sport-specific movements, with strength and jump tests to validate each stage.
Exercises
Exercises for a meniscus tear
Quad set
Sitting with your leg straight, tighten the thigh to press the back of the knee down and hold for 5 to 10 seconds. 3 sets of 10.
Mini squat
Feet shoulder-width apart, bend to 30-45° keeping your knees in line with your feet. 3 sets of 10 to 15.
Glute bridge
On your back with knees bent, lift your hips and hold for 3 seconds at the top. 3 sets of 12.
Single-leg balance
30 seconds on the injured leg, then with eyes closed or on a cushion once it feels easy.
Examples to adapt with your physio after the assessment: pain during exercise should stay moderate and settle within 24 hours.
Return to sport
Returning to sport after a meniscus tear
- A dry knee: no swelling after exercise
- Full, pain-free range of motion
- Thigh strength at least 90% of the other leg, measured with a dynamometer
- Jumps and changes of direction without apprehension, validated by timed tests
Investment
Base protocol price
From
4'060CHF
≈ 8 weeks
Indicative price that may vary with the number of protocol weeks. It will be adjusted after the clinical assessment by the physician and physiotherapist, based on the actual protocol duration and specific needs.
Mandatory prerequisite (not included)
Initial consultation with a partner physician (entry assessment): mandatory prerequisite, not included in the package. If needed, our team handles the referral and booking.
Included in the package
- Private physiotherapy sessions (2× 1h / week)
- One-on-one personal training (1× 1h / week)
- Initial + follow-up consultation with a partner nutritionist
- Case coordination: premium orchestration across all experts, direct booking of appointments once your schedule is shared
Extras not included. Imaging (ultrasound, MRI), orthobiologics (PRP, hyaluronic acid, SVF, BMAC), injections, shockwave therapy, biomarker panels: billed on top, only when clinically indicated by the responsible practitioner.
Questions
Frequently asked questions about the meniscus
Another question? We reply quickly on WhatsApp.
Message us on WhatsAppDoes a meniscus tear need surgery?
Can you walk with a meniscus tear?
Is cycling good for a meniscus tear?
Do I need an MRI?
Same area
Other conditions treated: knee
The diagnosis drives the protocol. Here are the other situations we treat in this area.
Fast booking
Book your physiotherapy session online.
Every condition is unique. Contact us for a personalised assessment.