Which is a common clinical finding for meniscal pathology?

Which is a common clinical finding for meniscal pathology?

• A. Joint line tenderness with reproduction of symptoms
• B. May see some minor swelling
• C. Pain at end ROM: flex and ext
• D. Positive McMurray's

Answer: (C)

Pain at the end of the knee’s range of motion is a common clue in meniscal problems because a torn meniscus often irritates or catches between the femur and tibia when the joint is moved to its extremes. As the knee approaches full flexion or full extension, the torn edge can rub or bind, producing sharp or aching pain and sometimes a brief locking sensation. This end-range discomfort reflects the mechanical effect of the tear during movement, which patients frequently notice during activities that require bending or straightening the knee. While joint line tenderness and mild swelling can occur with meniscal injury, they’re not as consistently reported or as specific to the symptom pattern as end-range pain. A McMurray’s test can help reveal a tear, but it depends on exam technique and the type of tear, so it isn’t as universally observed.

Pain at the end of the knee’s range of motion is a common clue in meniscal problems because a torn meniscus often irritates or catches between the femur and tibia when the joint is moved to its extremes. As the knee approaches full flexion or full extension, the torn edge can rub or bind, producing sharp or aching pain and sometimes a brief locking sensation. This end-range discomfort reflects the mechanical effect of the tear during movement, which patients frequently notice during activities that require bending or straightening the knee.

While joint line tenderness and mild swelling can occur with meniscal injury, they’re not as consistently reported or as specific to the symptom pattern as end-range pain. A McMurray’s test can help reveal a tear, but it depends on exam technique and the type of tear, so it isn’t as universally observed.