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What is a common symptom of meniscal tears?

  1. Pain at rest

  2. Clicking or locking of the knee

  3. Swelling without pain

  4. Numbness in the foot

The correct answer is: Clicking or locking of the knee

A common symptom of meniscal tears is the sensation of clicking or locking of the knee. This occurs because a torn meniscus can cause pieces of the cartilage to interfere with the normal motion of the joint. When the meniscus is damaged, it may not glide smoothly during knee movements, leading to this characteristic clicking sound. In more severe cases, a part of the torn meniscus may become entrapped between the bones of the knee joint, causing the knee to lock and preventing further movement until the obstruction is alleviated. This symptom is particularly relevant in diagnosing meniscal injuries, as it distinguishes them from other knee issues that might present symptoms like general pain or swelling. It is important for individuals experiencing these symptoms to seek medical evaluation, as meniscal tears often require targeted treatment to restore proper function and alleviate discomfort.