Not all meniscus tears require surgery. Small tears, especially those on the outer edge of the meniscus where blood supply is better, may heal with conservative treatment including rest, ice, physical therapy and anti-inflammatory medications.
Your doctor will consider factors like the size, location and pattern of the tear, as well as your age, activity level and symptoms. If your tear is causing significant pain, locking or limiting your activities despite conservative treatment, surgery may be recommended. The good news is that many people successfully manage meniscus tears without surgery, especially when they commit to a structured rehabilitation program.