Physical examination for meniscus tears

Abstract

Meniscus injury is one of the most common reasons of referral for orthopedic evaluation. Orthopedic physicians must be capable of performing a thorough history and physical examination of the knee as it relates to meniscus tears and associated injuries. When examining the knee, the clinician can elicit important clinical signs of meniscus injury through routine inspection and palpation of the knee as well as through assessment of range of motion and joint stability. In addition, several provocative maneuvers can be performed to aid in the diagnosis of meniscus injury, including the McMurray, Apley, Thessaly, and Childress tests. This chapter will provide a review of the basic approach to the physical examination of the knee with a particular focus on the evaluation for meniscus tears.