About this video
Last updated: 9 October 2026
In younger active people and athletes, tears often occur through trauma such as a sudden twist, a change of direction, an awkward landing or a direct impact. In older adults, the video says the meniscus weakens with age, and simple movements such as standing from a low chair, kneeling or climbing stairs can lead to a tear.
Key points
- The video describes the meniscus as a C-shaped piece of cartilage that acts as a shock absorber; each knee has two, on the inner and outer side.
- A torn meniscus may cause pain, swelling, locking or a catching sensation.
- The video says these are usually acute injuries in a single moment, and in many cases the rest of the knee may otherwise be healthy.
- These degenerative tears are not always linked to a single event but to long-term wear and thinning of the cartilage, and may be associated with early osteoarthritis.
Questions this video answers
What causes a meniscus tear in a young person?
The video says tears in younger, active people often occur through trauma, such as a sudden twist while pivoting, a change of direction, an awkward landing or a direct impact to the knee. These are usually acute injuries that happen in a single moment.
Why do older adults get meniscus tears?
The video says the meniscus tends to weaken with age as its collagen structure breaks down, so simple movements such as standing from a low chair or climbing stairs can lead to a tear. It calls these degenerative tears, linked to long-term wear and thinning of the cartilage rather than a single event.
Does treatment of a meniscus tear depend on age?
The video says treatment varies with the type of tear, and that a proper diagnosis is important. It mentions that surgical repair may be considered in younger patients with large traumatic tears or mechanical symptoms. It says every case is unique and treatment is tailored.
