Can arthritis cause a meniscus tear?

While arthritis and a meniscus tear can coexist, one does not directly cause the other. Arthritis, a degenerative joint condition that causes inflammation and wear and tear of the cartilage, can weaken the knee joint and make it more susceptible to injuries, including a meniscus tear. However, arthritis itself does not directly cause the meniscus to tear.

A meniscus tear often occurs when the knee is forcibly twisted or turned while bearing weight, such as during sports activities, especially those involving sudden changes in direction or quick stops and starts. Meniscus tears can also occur as a result of aging and degenerative changes in the knee joint, which can weaken the meniscus tissue and make it more prone to tearing.