5 physical therapy strategies to treat a meniscus tear

A meniscus tear can seriously disrupt your life, especially when you’re dealing with pain, swelling and reduced mobility. Whether your injury happened while playing sports or simply from twisting your knee the wrong way, physical therapy is a critical part of your recovery. 

At REPAIR SI in Huntington Beach, California, we take a patient-first approach to physical therapy, combining expert care with cutting-edge techniques tailored to your unique needs.

• Pain management and inflammation control

The first step in meniscus tear physical therapy is reducing pain and swelling. Our team focuses on:

• Class IV laser therapy to stimulate circulation and decrease inflammation
• Ice therapy and elevation to minimize swelling
• Gentle movement techniques that promote healing without stressing the joint

Early inflammation control helps prevent secondary issues like muscle atrophy and joint stiffness.

• Range-of-motion restoration

Regaining full knee mobility is essential. After swelling subsides, your therapist will guide you through:

• Passive and active range-of-motion exercises
• Joint mobilization and techniques like the McKenzie Method®

Stiffness is a common barrier to recovery, so restoring movement early may reduce long-term limitations.

• Strengthening exercises

Muscle weakness after a meniscus tear can affect how you move and increase your risk of reinjury. Therapy includes:

• Targeted exercises for the quadriceps, hamstrings and calves
• Resistance training, progressing from body weight to bands and weights

We focus on balanced strength to support your knee through daily activity and sports.

• Neuromuscular reeducation and balance work

Did you know that your knee’s stability depends on more than just muscles? Reconnecting your brain and body is crucial. We use:

• Balance boards and foam pads to retrain proprioception (your body’s sense of joint position)
• Gameplay and functional tasks that restore coordination

This phase reduces the chance of future injury and builds confidence in your movement.

• Return-to-activity training

Once strength and stability return, we focus on getting you back to what you love:

• Personalized movement retraining for sports, work or daily life
• Shockwave therapy for lingering stiffness or scar tissue, when needed

A structured, therapist-guided return ensures that you’re ready physically and mentally.

REPAIR SI is here to support your meniscus tear recovery

Meniscus tear recovery isn’t one size fits all. At REPAIR SI, our expert team builds customized therapy plans that empower you to heal fully and safely. From reducing pain to preparing you for a full return to activity, we walk with you every step of the way.

Ready to start your recovery journey? Book your personalized physical therapy assessment today at our Huntington Beach clinic.