Cycling With a Torn Meniscus

Meniscal tears are a fairly common knee injury, one that some athletes choose to play through. While cycling strengthens the leg muscles surrounding the knee, your ability to continue cycling depends on the type of tear you sustain. A rip in certain areas of the meniscus may heal on its own without surgery; however, serious tears require more attention and recovery time. Your doctor can recommend a rehabilitation program that may include biking with a torn meniscus.

Your knees are equipped with two C-shaped pads of cartilage that cushion the juncture of your shin and thigh bones. The pads sit on the outside, or lateral, and inside, or medial, portions of the joint.

Meniscal tears often occur with a forceful twist or rotation of your knee, particularly when your foot is planted on the ground. Your menisci also wear out with age and use. Tears can also occur performing normal activities — the cartilage may become worn down enough that a simple movement elicits a tear.

Cycling is a low-impact sport, meaning there is little weight-bearing movement placed on your joints. Higher gears, hills and fast sprints do place stress on the knee joint, however. Improper seat height, shifting incorrectly and riding too hard can all negatively impact your knee.

Pain along the inside part of the knee may indicate a medial meniscus tear, while a lateral meniscus tear will cause pain on the outside of your knee. Other symptoms may include swelling, loss of full range of motion and locking of the knee. If cycling causes any pain in your knee, stop the activity immediately. If pain persists, contact your doctor.

Read more: Knee Pain on the Outside of the Knee

There are several tear classifications, the severity of which depends on its location. Tears along the outside areas of the meniscus may not require surgery, as this area has a blood supply to deliver nutrients. These can often be healed with rest, ice, compression and elevation.

Transverse tears run straight across the width of the meniscus and are among the most severe types of tears. Flap and bucket handle tears as well as torn horns all impact the inner portion of the cartilage pad — these areas may require surgical repair and longer healing time. In addition to tearing cartilage, a knee injury can also result in damage to the ligaments that hold your bones in place.

Your doctor can determine the type and severity of a meniscus tear with a physical exam and imaging tests including an MRI and X-rays.

Read more: Knee Pain After a Fall

Riding a stationary bike is often recommended during meniscal tear rehabilitation to maintain cardiovascular fitness. Stationary bikes are easily programmed to provide little resistance to your knee joint. They can also help regain normal range of motion in your knee.

Your ability to use or ride a bike is dependent on the extent of your injury, surgery and overall health. A doctor or physical therapist will clear you for cycling when swelling and pain are reduced and your knee regains a certain amount of mobility.