Alternative Names
Tear - meniscus; Knee injury - meniscus; Knee cartilage tear
Definition of Meniscus tears:
Meniscus tears refer to a tear in the shock-absorbing cartilage (meniscus) of the knee.
Considerations:
The meniscus is a C-shaped piece of cartilage. Cartilage is found in certain joints and forms a buffer between the bones to protect the joint. The meniscus serves as a shock-absorption system, assists in lubricating the joint, and limits the ability to flex and extend the joint.
Causes:
Meniscal tears are most commonly caused by twisting or over-flexing the joint.
