Meniscal Tears at the Knee: Some Can Avoid Surgery

For years, the docs at my office have offered a very conservative approach to some meniscal tears at the knee. I injured my right medial meniscus in 2009, and presently have avoided the knife. You want a surgeon to give you the option, when appropriate. Our office is lucky to have surgeons and non-surgeons. If the non-surgeon tells you to have surgery, you probably need it. 100% of the bucket handle tears that prevent the knee from moving need surgery, but these are a small minority. If an MRI shows you a tear, seek the opinion of a non-surgeon, or conservative surgeon, to attempt a 12 week rehab period. 

http://www.anklefootmd.com/meniscal-tears-exercise-beneficial-surgery/