Locked Meniscus: Causes, Symptoms, and Physiotherapy Treatment at Home
A locked meniscus is a painful knee condition where the torn cartilage (meniscus) gets caught in the joint, restricting movement—often causing the knee to feel “stuck” in a bent or straightened position. If you’re experiencing a sudden locked knee, especially after a twist or squat, it may be due to a meniscal tear.
At After Hours Physio, we provide urgent home physiotherapy for locked knees across Melbourne, especially for patients who are unable to attend clinics or need after-hours care.
What Causes a Locked Meniscus?
A locked meniscus usually occurs due to:
- A bucket-handle tear of the meniscus (a flap of cartilage folds into the joint)
- Trauma during twisting or pivoting activities (common in sports or awkward movements)
- Degenerative changes in older adults with pre-existing knee osteoarthritis
Symptoms of a Locked Meniscus
- Inability to fully bend or straighten the knee
- Sudden locking or catching sensation
- Swelling and joint line tenderness
- Pain with walking or weight-bearing
- Feeling like something is “stuck” in the knee
Physiotherapy Treatment Plan for a Locked Meniscus (At Home)
Physiotherapy aims to reduce pain, restore mobility, and strengthen the knee to avoid surgery where possible. Here’s how our after hours mobile physiotherapy service can help:
1. Immediate Assessment (Home Visit)
- A licensed physio visits your home to assess knee range of motion, swelling, joint stability, and functional mobility.
- We use clinical tests like McMurray’s and Thessaly’s to assess the likelihood of a meniscal tear.
- In some cases, we may recommend imaging (MRI) for confirmation, and we can liaise with your GP for referrals.
2. Pain and Swelling Management
- Ice application and compression wraps (brought to your home)
- Gentle joint mobilisations to ease the “locked” sensation
- Education on positions of comfort and activity modification
- Referral to a GP or orthopaedic surgeon if the knee is completely locked and not responding to conservative care
3. Gradual Range of Motion Exercises
- Passive and active-assisted movements to gently restore knee flexibility
- Heel slides, knee bends, and quad sets—all demonstrated and monitored at home
4. Muscle Strengthening
- Focused on the quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes to offload the knee joint
- Home-friendly exercises using resistance bands or body weight
5. Balance and Gait Retraining
- Especially important if you’re limping or avoiding weight-bearing
- Prevents compensatory injuries in hips, lower back, and opposite leg
6. Return to Function and Activity
- Tailored rehab plan based on your goals—whether it’s walking without pain, returning to sport, or just managing stairs confidently
- Fall prevention and joint protection education
Why Choose After Hours Physio for Locked Knee Treatment?
- ✅ Urgent home visits available 7 days a week
- ✅ Ideal for non-ambulatory or elderly patients in Melbourne
- ✅ We bring all necessary equipment to your home
- ✅ Safe, comfortable, and personalised treatment in your own space
- ✅ Trusted by families, carers, and GPs for emergency physio services
Need Help Now?
If you or a loved one is dealing with a locked knee and can’t get to a clinic, don’t wait in pain. After Hours Physio is here to help with expert meniscus injury treatment at home in Melbourne.
📍 Available across Eastern Melbourne suburbs
📞 Call us now or book online for a same-day home physio appointment