A torn meniscus is one of the most common knee injuries. Athletes, especially those who play contact sports, are more likely to tear a meniscus. However, anyone of any age can tear a meniscus.

When people talk about a torn cartilage in the knee, they are usually referring to a torn meniscus. You may hear a clicking sound when the meniscus is torn.

Most people can still walk with an injured knee. Many athletes do not stop playing sports when they have a tear.

Within 2 or 3 days, the knee will gradually become stiffer and swollen. The most common symptoms of a torn meniscus are:

• Aches and pains
• Stiffness and swelling
• Stiffness or locking of the knee
• Feeling like the knee is "buckling
• Inability to move the knee through its full range of motion

If the tear is not treated, pieces of the meniscus can come loose and float around the joint, causing the knee to buckle, pop or lock.