Glossary
Radial meniscus tear
Quick answer
A radial meniscus tear runs across the meniscus from its inner edge towards the outer rim, like a cut across a ring. A small one may cause few problems, but a full-width radial tear stops the meniscus spreading load, notes Doha knee surgeon Dr. Pablo Gelber at Aman Hospital.
What it looks like
The meniscus works like a hoop. Its circular fibres hold it together under load, the way the steel band holds a barrel. A radial tear cuts across those fibres at right angles, starting at the thin inner edge.
Radial tears happen after twisting injuries in sport and also in older, degenerative menisci. They are common in the lateral meniscus on the outer side.
Why it matters
A short radial tear at the inner edge often behaves like a minor tear and may settle with physiotherapy. A tear that reaches the rim, or one near the root, splits the hoop. The meniscus can then be pushed out of the joint, a finding called extrusion, and the cartilage beneath takes much more load.
That is why surgeons pay close attention to how far a radial tear extends, rather than simply whether it is present.
How it is treated
Treatment depends on size, position, your age and symptoms. Small inner tears are usually managed without surgery or trimmed if they catch. Complete radial tears in younger, active people are often considered for repair to restore the hoop, followed by a protected rehabilitation period.
Frequently asked questions
Can a radial meniscus tear heal on its own?
Small tears in the inner edge may stop causing symptoms, but that part has little blood supply and rarely heals. Larger tears usually need a surgeon's opinion.
Is a radial tear the same as a root tear?
A root tear is a radial tear at or very close to where the meniscus attaches to bone. It has similar effects to a complete radial tear and is often repaired.
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