Meniscus Related Knee Pain Treatment in Mineola, NY

MULLIGAN CONCEPT

Meniscus Related Knee Pain

The menisci are cartilage cushions inside the knee. Pain and stiffness around them often show up with twisting, squatting or kneeling, and many people do well without surgery. At Enhanced Physical Therapy in Mineola, we use the Mulligan squeeze technique and knee mobilization with movement to improve how the knee moves and feels, then build strength.

Certified Mulligan Practitioner Over 10 Years of Experience

Our clinics director is a Certified Mulligan Practitioner (CMP) with over a decade
of experience using this evidence-based approach. Each treatment is customized to
your specific diagnosis and movement limitations to achieve optimal outcomes.

Common signs of meniscus related knee pain

Pain on the inside or outside of the knee joint
Pain twisting, pivoting, squatting or kneeling
Swelling after activity
Catching or clicking
Stiffness bending the knee fully

What causes it

In younger people, meniscus pain often follows a twisting injury. After 40, it often develops gradually with age and can flare with minor movements.

How we examine it

Before any hands-on treatment, we ask about your health and screen for anything that needs a doctor first. We assess motion, swelling, strength and specific knee tests, and check for a locked knee that needs a surgeon. We don't confirm or repair a meniscus; we test which techniques ease your painful movements.

Mulligan techniques we use

Squeeze technique. Dr. Kurian applies gentle pressure over the sore part of the joint line while you bend and straighten the knee.
Tibial rotation MWM. A gentle rotational glide while you bend the knee.
Weight-bearing MWM. Applied during a squat or lunge.
Mulligan taping. Tape to support a helpful rotation during activity.

What the research says

In a sham-controlled trial (Hudson 2018, 23 people), the squeeze technique improved knee function and activity scores more than a sham treatment, but pain was not different between groups. A 2022 review of six studies reached similar conclusions. Research also shows exercise-based care works as well as surgery for many age-related meniscus problems.

What else is in your treatment plan

Your plan includes manual therapy, quad and hip strengthening, balance work and a gradual return to activity.

How long recovery takes

Many people improve over 6 to 12 weeks.

When to see a doctor first

Call your doctor, or get urgent care, if you have any of the following:

A knee locked and unable to straighten
Large swelling soon after an injury
A knee that keeps giving way
Unable to bear weight
A hot, red knee or fever

Meniscus related knee pain treatment near Mineola

Enhanced Physical Therapy is at 137 Willis Ave, Suite 100, Mineola, NY 11501, a short walk from NYU Langone Hospital-Long Island. We see patients from Mineola, Garden City, Williston Park, New Hyde Park, Carle Place, Westbury, Albertson and Manhasset, and across central Nassau County.

Frequently asked questions

Do all meniscus problems need surgery?

No. Many, especially age-related ones, do well with physical therapy.

What is the squeeze technique?

A Mulligan technique that applies gentle pressure at the sore part of the knee joint while you move the knee.

Can I squat?

Often yes, within a comfortable range. We guide your progress.

When is surgery needed?

If the knee locks or keeps giving way, or symptoms don't improve after a good trial of rehab.

Written and clinically reviewed by Jacob Kurian, PT, MSPT, CMP, DPT, Certified Mulligan Practitioner, Enhanced Physical Therapy, Mineola NY. Last updated October 14, 2026.

Move Better, Feel Better

If this is limiting your work, sleep or activity, call Enhanced Physical Therapy at (516) 833-5880 to book an evaluation with Jacob Kurian, Certified Mulligan Practitioner. Mulligan treatment may help reduce pain and improve movement, and we will tell you honestly what to expect.