What does knee swelling feel like with meniscus tear?

A meniscus tear can irritate the knee after a twist, pivot, deep squat, or impact. Swelling may develop soon after an injury or become more noticeable later. The knee can feel full inside, stiff when bending, or tender along the inner or outer joint line. Some people notice catching, clicking, or a feeling that the knee is not moving smoothly.

Swelling and pain can make it difficult to squat, climb stairs, or fully straighten the leg. These symptoms can occur with other knee injuries too, so they do not confirm a meniscus tear by themselves. Learn more about [Meniscus Tear](/conditions/meniscus-tear/) and [Knee Swelling](/symptoms/knee-swelling/).

Limit twisting, pivoting, deep squats, and impact until the knee settles. Use relative rest, a cold pack wrapped in cloth, and elevation if comfortable. Keep the knee moving gently without forcing a painful bend or straightening. A clinician can assess stability and movement and guide rehabilitation.

Arrange an assessment after a significant twist, ongoing swelling, repeated catching, or trouble fully straightening the knee. Seek urgent care if the knee is locked, you cannot bear weight, pain is severe, or the joint becomes hot and red or you develop fever.

Ask whether the tenderness follows the joint line, which activities to avoid, whether physiotherapy is suitable, and what signs would require further evaluation. Describe the injury movement and when swelling first appeared.