About this video
Last updated: 9 October 2026
The video describes the meniscus as C-shaped cartilage that distributes load across the knee and acts as a shock absorber, and says tears do not all behave the same. It says some tears cause aching after activity, while others create a loose flap of tissue, which it compares to a corner of carpet lifting off the floor.
Key points
- When the flap becomes trapped, the video says patients may feel sudden stabbing pain, catching or brief locking before the flap moves away.
- The video says symptoms that come and go do not necessarily mean the problem is improving; the flap may keep catching with certain movements.
- It says MRI scans are useful in identifying these tears, but the findings need to be interpreted alongside symptoms and physical examination.
- The video says treatment depends on the type and location of the tear, age and activity level, and whether symptoms are affecting daily life.
Questions this video answers
What does a meniscus flap tear feel like?
The video says that when a flap of torn meniscus becomes trapped inside the knee, patients may feel a sudden stabbing pain, catching or a brief locking sensation before the flap moves away. It says symptoms come and go.
How is a meniscus flap tear found?
The video says MRI scans are very useful in identifying these tears, although the findings always need to be interpreted alongside the patient’s symptoms and physical examination.
How is a meniscus flap tear treated?
The video says many meniscal tears improve with rehabilitation. When an unstable flap repeatedly catches inside the joint despite appropriate conservative treatment, it says arthroscopic keyhole surgery may be considered to smooth or repair the torn portion.
