How effective is physiotherapy for knee cartilage injury?

Cartilage injuries vary: some involve the smooth joint surface, while others occur with ligament or bone damage. Physiotherapy cannot rebuild every cartilage defect, so the first step is clarifying the injury, its location and whether the knee is stable. Treatment may include swelling control, range-of-motion work, quadriceps and hip strengthening, balance exercises and gradual loading. The therapist adjusts the programme if bending, twisting or impact causes catching or increased swelling.

Use the assessment to set a practical goal, such as walking comfortably, climbing stairs or returning to a chosen sport. Complete prescribed exercises consistently and avoid deep twisting, jumping or heavy loading until advised. Ice or elevation may help short-term swelling for some people, while pacing activity prevents repeated flare-ups. If the knee has been injured recently, ask whether imaging or an orthopaedic review is needed before progressing exercise.

Seek urgent assessment if the knee cannot bear weight, becomes locked, swells suddenly after an injury, looks deformed, or is hot and red with fever. Contact your clinician if pain, giving way or swelling continues despite following the plan. Repeated catching can require a reassessment of the joint surface or another injured structure.

Which cartilage structure is injured, and is the knee stable? What movements should I avoid for now? What signs show that loading can progress, and when would specialist review or further imaging be appropriate?