What is a meniscus?

A meniscus refers specifically to a crescent-shaped cartilage structure found in the knee joint. This cartilage serves several vital functions, including providing cushioning between the femur (thigh bone) and the tibia (shin bone), helping to stabilize the joint, and distributing body weight across the knee. The menisci also play a role in absorbing shock during movement, which is important for maintaining proper joint function and reducing the risk of injury.

The other terms differ in both structure and function: bones are rigid structures that comprise the skeleton, ligaments are connective tissues that attach bones to other bones, and muscle tissue is responsible for movement and strength in the leg. Understanding the role of the meniscus is crucial in fields such as orthopedics and sports medicine, as injuries to this cartilage can significantly impact mobility and function.