Meniscal Tear Physiotherapy in Prahran – Diagnosis, Treatment & Recovery
Meniscal tears are among the most common knee injuries seen in both athletes and active individuals. Whether caused by sports, trauma or age-related degeneration, effective treatment and a structured physiotherapy program are essential for recovery. At Bodhiworks Physiotherapy in Prahran, we specialise in treating meniscal injuries with personalised, evidence-based care.
In this blog, we explore the different types of meniscal tears, key symptoms to watch for, how physiotherapy helps and what you can expect during recovery.
What Is a Meniscal Tear?
The meniscus is a C-shaped piece of cartilage in your knee joint that cushions and stabilises the space between your femur (thigh bone) and tibia (shin bone). It plays a crucial role in shock absorption and joint stability during movement.
Meniscal tears often occur from:
Twisting motions during sport (e.g., football, netball, skiing)
Sudden stops or pivots
Degeneration in older adults due to wear and tear
These tears are categorised as:
Vertical
Horizontal
Complex
Each type requires a specific approach to physiotherapy and healing.
Symptoms of a Meniscal Tear
Common signs of a meniscal tear include:
Pain in the knee joint
Swelling or stiffness
Clicking or locking sensation
Difficulty straightening or bending the knee
Instability when walking
Early diagnosis is key—physiotherapy can prevent further joint damage and accelerate recovery when started promptly.
How Physiotherapy Can Help Meniscal Tear Recovery
At Bodhiworks Physiotherapy, we take a personalised and holistic approach to treatment. Whether you’re managing a recent injury or post-surgical recovery, our experienced physiotherapists in Prahran offer effective solutions.
1. Comprehensive Assessment
Your physiotherapy journey begins with a detailed biomechanical assessment. We evaluate joint mobility, muscle strength, walking patterns and may refer for MRI imaging if needed.
Our goal: identify the specific type of tear and design a rehab plan tailored to your lifestyle, activity level and recovery goals.
2. Pain Management Strategies
Managing pain and inflammation is the first step toward healing. We use a range of proven physiotherapy techniques, such as:
Ice therapy to reduce swelling and numb discomfort
Ultrasound therapy to accelerate tissue repair (can reduce recovery time by up to 25%)
Electrotherapy (e.g., TENS) to relieve pain and boost circulation
These treatments create an optimal environment for healing and prepare the body for movement-based rehab.
3. Rehabilitation & Strengthening Exercises
Once pain is under control, we focus on rehabilitation exercises that restore function and reduce the risk of re-injury:
Range of motion exercises to improve knee mobilityE.g., heel slides, stationary bike
Strength training for quads, hamstrings & glutesE.g., straight-leg raises, wall squats, step-ups
Balance & proprioception workE.g., single-leg stands, wobble board training
Research shows strengthening surrounding muscles reduces reinjury risk by over 40%.
4. Advanced Recovery Modalities
To complement your rehab plan, we may also include:
Dry Needling – Targets trigger points to relieve deep muscle tension
Manual Therapy – Hands-on joint mobilisation improves knee function
Sports & Remedial Massage – Eases tight tissues and promotes blood flow
These hands-on therapies are often the key to resolving lingering discomfort and speeding up recovery.
Recovery Timeframes & Return to Activity
Recovery timelines vary depending on the severity of the tear, whether surgery was needed and your rehab commitment.
Non-surgical recovery: 6–12 weeks
Post-surgical (meniscal repair): 4–6 months for full return to sport
Older adults with degenerative tears: Focus on long-term joint management
Regular reviews ensure your program is adjusted to suit your progress, lifestyle and goals.
Meniscal Tear Treatment at Bodhiworks Physiotherapy, Prahran
A meniscal tear can significantly impact your daily movement and overall well-being—but with the right care, full recovery is possible.
At Bodhiworks Physiotherapy, we:
Provide expert assessment and diagnosis
Tailor your treatment plan to your activity level
Use a combination of hands-on therapy, exercise rehab and advanced modalities
Help you return to sport, work and life with confidence
Book Your Physiotherapy Appointment in Prahran Today
If you suspect a meniscal tear or are recovering from knee surgery, don’t delay treatment. The sooner you begin physiotherapy, the better your outcome.
📍 Located in Prahran, near South Yarra, Toorak and Windsor, Bodhiworks Physiotherapy offers expert care for knee injuries and more.
👉Book online or call us on P: 0402 610 027 to schedule your assessment and start your journey to recovery.
