Not every meniscus tear needs surgery

By Dr. Lizeth Ortiz Barboza · Published September 20, 2026 · Updated September 28, 2026

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The key is the cause, not only the symptom

The knee hurts. The MRI says “meniscus”. That is not the end of the story. It matters whether:

• The meniscus is unstable
• There is locking
• The real problem is years of joint degeneration — cartilage and meniscus changing together
• The ligaments are not stabilizing
• The hip and the quadriceps are not doing their part

When surgery does enter the conversation

• True locking that does not settle
• An unstable fragment that causes repeated giving-way
• An associated injury that compromises the knee mechanically
• Failure of a well-done conservative program

“Not everything is surgical” does not mean “nothing is surgical”. That is said without hedging.

What a regenerative approach can add

Prolotherapy aims to stimulate the body’s own repair mechanisms. In the knee, when there is an indication, it may help ease pain and inflammation, improve stability and function, and support the tissue response. In some patients that makes it possible to avoid or postpone a surgery that was not necessary.

Viscosupplementation comes in when intra-articular joint degeneration (the joint environment) weighs more than the ligament.

Neither one “glues” a meniscus in a single visit.

Every knee is different

That is why the treatment also has to be personal. The plan comes from the assessment, which is often supported by ultrasound. It is not a generic package promoted on social media.

More on knee pain.

Educational text. Results vary. An assessment is required.

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