Meniscal tears, common knee injuries affecting athletes and the elderly, involve damage to the C-shaped meniscus that cushions the knee. Symptoms include persistent pain, swelling, and difficulty with movement like climbing stairs. Ignoring these signs can lead to increased friction, cartilage degeneration, and early osteoarthritis. Treatment ranges from RICE therapy and physiotherapy for minor tears to arthroscopic surgery for more severe cases, emphasizing early diagnosis for better outcomes.