What classic complaint is associated with a meniscal tear?

A classic complaint associated with a meniscal tear is knee locking. This phenomenon occurs due to a portion of the torn meniscus becoming lodged within the knee joint, preventing movement and causing a sensation of the knee getting stuck in a certain position. This locking can happen during activities that involve rotational movements, such as pivoting or squatting, and can lead to difficulty fully extending or flexing the knee.

The association between knee locking and a meniscal tear is significant in clinical assessments, helping to differentiate meniscal injuries from other knee injuries or conditions. While knee pain exacerbated by activity, swelling around the knee joint, and difficulty straightening the knee can also occur with various knee pathologies, the specific symptom of locking is more characteristic and suggests a mechanical issue related to the meniscus itself.