Meniscus Injury Physiotherapy in Vancouver

A painful knee after a twist can make stairs, squatting and changing direction difficult. At Cadence Physiotherapy & Rehab in Vancouver, we assess your knee, help you understand what your symptoms may mean, and plan your next steps for work, exercise or sport.

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Physiotherapist working with an athlete on a standing balance exercise

Understanding meniscus injury

The menisci are pads of cartilage that help distribute load in the knee. An injury can happen during a pivot or twist, and meniscal changes can also develop gradually. Pain along the joint line, swelling or catching can occur with a meniscus injury. Similar symptoms can come from other knee problems, so the injury history and exam matter.

Common concerns

  • Pain on the inside or outside of the knee after a twist
  • Swelling or stiffness that limits bending or straightening
  • Catching or difficulty with deep squats, stairs or pivoting

When to get medical help

Get prompt medical assessment if your knee gets stuck and you cannot straighten it, you cannot bear weight after an injury, or you develop major swelling soon after a twist or impact.

Your assessment at Cadence

We ask about the injury, how soon swelling appeared and whether the knee catches or gets stuck. Your physiotherapist may check knee motion, swelling, strength and how you move on the leg. We can discuss whether medical review is appropriate based on your symptoms and examination.

How physiotherapy can help

Depending on the injury, rehab may work on restoring motion, improving thigh and hip strength and practising stairs or other daily tasks. A return-to-sport plan gradually reintroduces the loads and changes of direction you need. After surgery, progression depends on the procedure and your surgeon’s instructions.

Frequently asked questions

Does a meniscus injury always need surgery?

Some people improve with rehabilitation. A locked knee, some displaced tears or persistent symptoms may need orthopaedic review. The options depend on your injury and goals.

Can I squat during rehab?

Your physiotherapist can help you select a depth and load you can tolerate. If you recently had a meniscus repair, follow the bending and weight-bearing restrictions from your surgeon.

Book your Vancouver physiotherapy appointment

Find Cadence Physiotherapy & Rehab at 706–550 W Broadway, near Broadway–City Hall station. Book online or call 604-738-4900.

Explore Knee Pain Physiotherapy or see the other conditions we treat.

Further reading: AAOS guidance on acute meniscal injuries. Individual assessment guides diagnosis and treatment.