Meniscus Tear and the Role of Physiotherapy in Recovery at Athos Physio Manchester
This week’s blog post dives into another common knee injury we treat at Athos Physio Manchester – meniscus tears. Whether caused by sports or general wear and tear, meniscus injuries can significantly impact daily life and physical performance. Read on to learn about meniscus tear surgery, recovery timelines, and how physiotherapy at our Manchester clinic plays a key role in rehabilitation.
What is a Meniscus Tear, and Why is Treatment Important?
The meniscus is a C-shaped piece of cartilage in the knee that acts as a shock absorber between the femur (thigh bone) and tibia (shin bone). Each knee has two menisci – medial and lateral – and they help with joint stability and load distribution.
Meniscus tears commonly occur due to twisting or pivoting movements, especially in sports like football, skiing, or basketball. They can also result from gradual degeneration with age. Symptoms may include:
• A popping sound at the time of injury
• Knee swelling or stiffness
• Pain during twisting or squatting
• A feeling of the knee “locking” or giving way
If left untreated, a meniscus tear can lead to long-term knee instability, cartilage damage, and increased risk of osteoarthritis.
What is Meniscus Surgery (Meniscectomy or Meniscus Repair)?
Depending on the severity and location of the tear, surgical treatment may be required. There are two main types of meniscus surgery:
• Meniscectomy – The damaged portion of the meniscus is trimmed and removed.
• Meniscus Repair – The torn meniscus is stitched back together and allowed to heal naturally.
Surgery is usually recommended when conservative treatments fail, or if the tear causes locking, instability, or persistent pain. At Athos Physio Manchester, we often support patients through both post-meniscectomy and post-repair rehabilitation.
Why is Physiotherapy Essential After Meniscus Surgery?
Physiotherapy is crucial after meniscus surgery to restore normal knee function, improve strength, reduce pain, and prevent re-injury. The surgery is only part of the solution—rehabilitation ensures full recovery.
At Athos Physio, we provide structured, personalised rehab plans to help you regain mobility, rebuild strength, and return to your normal activities or sport with confidence. We also use sports massage and biomechanics physiotherapytechniques for more targeted recovery.
Main Benefits of Physiotherapy Following Meniscus Surgery:
• Restoring Range of Motion – Early mobilisation prevents stiffness and improves flexibility.
• Pain and Swelling Reduction – Through manual therapy, ice therapy, and gentle exercise.
• Strengthening the Knee – Focused exercises on quads, hamstrings, and glutes for stability.
• Improved Balance and Coordination – Biomechanics training to retrain knee control.
• Faster Return to Activity – Step-by-step progression tailored to your goals.
How Do Physiotherapists Help with Meniscus Tear Recovery?
At Athos Physio Manchester, we create customised plans for each stage of your recovery:
• Initial Phase – Pain management, swelling control, gentle mobility work.
• Mobility and Strength Phase – Controlled exercises to regain knee movement and muscle strength.
• Advanced Rehab Phase – Proprioception, balance training, and resistance exercises.
• Return to Sport or Activity – Sport-specific drills to ensure safe return to full function.
How Long Does Recovery Take After Meniscus Surgery?
Recovery after meniscus surgery varies depending on the procedure type:
• Partial Meniscectomy: 4–8 weeks for full recovery
• Meniscus Repair: 3–6 months or more, depending on healing and rehab progression
A general recovery timeline includes:
• 0–2 Weeks: Reduce swelling, gentle range of motion, pain management
• 2–6 Weeks: Gradually increase mobility, begin strengthening
• 6–12 Weeks: Progressive strength and stability exercises
• 3–6 Months (for meniscus repair): Advanced rehab, sport-specific work, return to impact activity
Do’s and Don’ts in Early Meniscus Rehab:
Do’s:
✅ Follow your physiotherapy programme consistently
✅ Use ice to reduce swelling
✅ Keep the leg elevated and supported
✅ Engage in safe range-of-motion exercises
✅ Wear a brace if advised
Don’ts:
❌ Avoid high-impact activity too soon
❌ Don’t push through sharp pain
❌ Don’t ignore swelling or locking
❌ Avoid prolonged inactivity or knee flexion
Physiotherapy Exercises After Meniscus Surgery
At Athos Physio, we combine manual therapy, sports massage, and tailored exercises to support recovery. Key exercises include:
• Heel Slides – To gently increase flexion
• Quad Sets – Activate thigh muscles early on
• Straight Leg Raises – Strengthen without straining the knee
• Bridging – Engages glutes and core
• Mini Squats – Build functional strength
• Balance Board Work – Enhance stability and proprioception
• Resistance Band Work – Progressive strength gains
• Step-Ups and Lunges – In later stages for dynamic control
FAQs About Meniscus Tear Recovery Physiotherapy
1. When can I walk after meniscus surgery?
Most patients begin walking with crutches within a few days post-surgery. Weight-bearing depends on the type of surgery—repair surgeries often require more time.
2. Do I need physiotherapy after meniscectomy?
Yes! Even after a minor procedure, physio helps regain strength, prevent stiffness, and speed up recovery.
3. Can I return to sport after meniscus surgery?
Absolutely, but only after a full rehab programme. Return-to-sport timelines vary, with most athletes returning between 2–6 months depending on surgery type and sport intensity.
4. Is swelling normal after surgery?
Some swelling is expected in early recovery. Consistent physio and rest help reduce it. Persistent or severe swelling should be assessed.
5. What if I don’t follow physiotherapy?
Skipping rehab can lead to long-term issues such as reduced mobility, muscle weakness, or recurrent injury. Physiotherapy is key to full functional recovery.
Conclusion
Meniscus injuries are common and can seriously impact knee function without proper treatment. Surgery may be necessary in many cases, but physiotherapy is what ensures a complete and successful recovery.
At Athos Physio Manchester, we offer expert post-surgical rehab, sports physiotherapy, and massage therapy to support your journey—whether you’re aiming to return to sport, work, or simply enjoy daily life without pain.
Ready to get back on your feet after meniscus surgery?