When Is Knee Surgery Needed? Meniscus vs ACL Tear Explained

Surgery isn’t automatic for every knee tear. Many small or degenerative meniscus tears improve with physical therapy, while some ACL tears need reconstruction, especially for people returning to pivoting sports. This article explains which signs point toward rehab and which point toward an operation, why preserving the meniscus matters, and how timing affects your options. A clear, plain-language guide to help you understand your choices before making a decision.