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Warning-sign checks

Rehabilitation for a meniscus tear: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Call emergency services for chest pain, sudden shortness of breath, coughing up blood, fainting, or another severe and rapidly developing symptom.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Contact your therapist or healthcare team promptly if you develop increasing swelling, worsening pain, repeated giving way, new catching, or difficulty following the exercise plan.

    A knee that becomes locked and cannot straighten needs urgent assessment.

    After surgery, seek prompt advice for wound drainage, spreading redness, fever, or pain that is worsening instead of settling.

    New one-sided calf pain or swelling requires urgent medical assessment because it can be a sign of a blood clot.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Questions about exercise progression, work restrictions, or expected soreness can usually wait for routine follow-up.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Rehabilitation for a meniscus tear. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.