Meniscal Tear Causes & Risks

Causes

Most injuries to the meniscus are caused by trauma, usually compression and twisting of the knee. Movements that can cause trauma to the knee include pivoting, cutting, and decelerating. Because aging tends to break down the inner tissues of the meniscus, minor trauma (such as squatting) can injure the meniscus in an older person.

Risk Factors

A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition. Risk factors for a meniscal tear include:

• Participating in contact sports
• Improper techniques for jumping, landing, pivoting, and cutting
• Previous ACL injury