Meniscus Tear Treatment at M&S Vascular and Orthopedic Group — minimally invasive treatment in Forest Hills, Queens & Great Neck, Long Island
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Meniscus Tear Treatment

Meniscus tear evaluation, arthroscopic repair, and non-surgical treatment in Forest Hills, Queens. Same-week appointments with Dr. Manouel and Dr. Formica.

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Amir Salem, MD · April 28, 2026

About Meniscus Tear Treatment

A torn meniscus is one of the most common knee injuries seen at M&S Vascular and Orthopedic Group. The meniscus is a C-shaped piece of cartilage that cushions the knee joint, and it can tear during twisting movements, deep squats, heavy lifting, or simply from age-related wear. Dr. Mehran Manouel evaluates meniscus tears in Forest Hills, Queens and determines whether the tear is best treated with physical therapy, injection therapy, or arthroscopic surgery. Not every meniscus tear requires surgery. Small tears in the outer portion of the meniscus, where blood supply is better, may heal with rest, anti-inflammatory treatment, and guided rehabilitation. Larger tears, locked knees, or tears that cause persistent catching and giving way often benefit from arthroscopic meniscus repair or partial meniscectomy. Dr. Formica manages non-surgical meniscus care, including PRP injections, bracing, and progressive strengthening programs. Our team serves patients from Forest Hills, Rego Park, Kew Gardens, Jamaica, Flushing, Great Neck, and the broader Queens and Long Island community.

Meniscus Tear Treatment — what to expect

What to Expect

Your Visit, Step by Step

Your visit begins with a focused knee examination including McMurray and Thessaly tests to reproduce meniscus symptoms. If a tear is suspected, an MRI is ordered to confirm the location, size, and pattern of the tear. For surgical candidates, Dr. Manouel performs arthroscopic meniscus repair or partial meniscectomy through two small incisions using a camera and specialized instruments. Meniscectomy patients often walk the same day and return to normal activity within a few weeks. Meniscus repair recovery is longer, typically six to eight weeks of protected weight-bearing followed by progressive strengthening.

Who Is This For?

Meniscus tear treatment is for patients experiencing knee pain, swelling, locking, catching, or difficulty straightening the knee after a twisting injury or gradual onset of symptoms. Both younger athletes with acute tears and older adults with degenerative meniscus damage benefit from evaluation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a meniscus tear heal on its own?
Some small tears in the outer (red zone) of the meniscus can heal with rest and rehabilitation because that area has adequate blood supply. Tears in the inner (white zone), complex tears, and tears causing mechanical symptoms typically require arthroscopic treatment.
What is the difference between meniscus repair and meniscectomy?
Meniscus repair stitches the torn cartilage back together, preserving the cushion. Partial meniscectomy trims away the damaged portion. Repair is preferred when the tear pattern and location allow it, because it preserves more of the natural meniscus and protects long-term knee health.
How long is recovery from meniscus surgery?
Partial meniscectomy patients typically return to most activities within two to four weeks. Meniscus repair requires six to eight weeks of protected movement and a longer rehabilitation program before returning to sports.
Do I need surgery for a degenerative meniscus tear?
Many degenerative tears in patients over 50 respond well to physical therapy, anti-inflammatory treatment, and corticosteroid or PRP injections. Surgery is considered when conservative treatment fails to relieve symptoms after several weeks.
Can PRP injections help a meniscus tear?
PRP may support healing for certain partial meniscus tears and reduce inflammation. Dr. Formica evaluates whether PRP is appropriate based on the tear location, your symptoms, and your activity goals.

Schedule an Appointment

Our board-certified providers are ready to help. Call us today.

Serving patients in:

Forest Hills / Queens · Rego Park · Kew Gardens · Flushing · Bayside · Jamaica · Elmhurst · Fresh Meadows · Jackson Heights · Great Neck / Long Island · Manhasset

Take the Next Step

Schedule your meniscus tear treatment appointment with M&S Vascular and Orthopedic Group P.C. today.