Can I keep playing padel or football with a torn meniscus?

Why the answer differs between players

Padel and football load the meniscus through pivoting, sudden stops and deep lunges. A small degenerative tear in a recreational player may tolerate this well after rehabilitation. A fresh, unstable tear in a young player, especially in the outer zone where repair is possible, can extend with each twist. An MRI and an examination usually show which type you have.

Signs you should stop playing for now

• The knee locks, catches or needs to be wiggled to straighten
• It swells after each match or training session
• It gives way when you change direction
• You are limping the next morning
• Pain is sharp and localised to the joint line when you twist

Any of these suggests the tear is mechanically unstable or that another structure, such as the ACL, may be injured.

If your knee is ready to try

Start with straight-line jogging and cycling, then add controlled lateral movement and short padel rallies before full matches. In Qatar's summer, train at cooler hours or indoors, since fatigue in the heat reduces muscle control. Keep strength work going through the season, not only during rehabilitation. A short, honest trial is reasonable; persistent swelling means stepping back.

When surgery becomes the better route

If the knee will not tolerate sport after a proper rehabilitation programme, or if the tear is repairable and you are young and active, Dr. Gelber may discuss arthroscopy. Repairing a suitable tear early protects the meniscus for the long term, even though it means a longer recovery before returning to play.