Which symptom can indicate a meniscus tear in the knee?

A meniscus tear in the knee is often associated with a popping sensation during the injury. This popping sound occurs when the torn piece of cartilage moves within the joint as the knee is flexed or extended. The symptom is a classic indicator of knee joint injuries, particularly in sports-related activities where twisting or sudden stops are common.

The other symptoms listed, while they may indicate different types of injuries or conditions, do not specifically correlate with a meniscus tear. Swelling of the ankle may suggest an ankle injury or other conditions unrelated to the meniscus, bruising on the thigh may indicate muscle or soft tissue injury rather than a knee-specific issue, and stiffness in the hip relates more to hip joint conditions rather than those of the knee. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning in clinical settings.