What does "tear of the posterior horn of medial meniscus" mean?

A tear of the posterior horn of medial meniscus refers to a meniscus tear in the back and inner side of the knee, explains Howard J. Luks, MD. The meniscus is a cartilage disk that acts as a shock absorber or cushion.

Tears of the posterior horn of medial meniscus are the most common location for a meniscus tear and generally occur due to some form of trauma, sports injury or degeneration due to general wear and tear. Treatment options for such a tear include rest, physical therapy and modification of activity. In more serious cases a surgical procedure called an arthroscopy may be necessary to repair the damage, notes Howard J. Luks, MD.