Does physiotherapy treat knee cartilage injury?

Cartilage injury can range from a small surface lesion to damage associated with twisting, impact or another knee problem. The knee may feel painful, swollen, stiff, catching or weak. Physiotherapy cannot repair every cartilage defect, so the injury type and severity matter. Assessment may include knee movement, swelling, walking, thigh strength and control during a step or squat. Treatment can then use gentle mobility, progressive strengthening, balance work and activity advice.

Use the loading plan provided after examination, especially if the knee is swollen or recently injured. Avoid deep bending, pivoting, jumping or impact when these provoke symptoms until you have clear guidance. Keep the knee moving within a comfortable range and rebuild strength gradually. Ice or elevation may be suggested for swelling, but neither replaces assessment. If the knee was injured suddenly, ask whether imaging or an orthopaedic review is needed before progressing exercise.

Arrange medical review for persistent swelling, repeated catching, locking, instability or pain that limits walking. Seek urgent care after an injury if you cannot bear weight, the knee is badly deformed, swelling develops quickly or you have severe pain. A hot, red knee with fever also needs prompt assessment rather than home rehabilitation.

Ask what type of cartilage is involved, whether the knee needs imaging, which movements should be limited and what signs show that loading can progress. Discuss work and sport demands, expected rehabilitation stages and when an orthopaedic opinion would be useful if symptoms remain mechanical or disabling.