Knee pain, often attributed to arthritis, can also stem from meniscus tears, which mimic early osteoarthritis symptoms like stiffness and swelling. A meniscus tear involves damage to the C-shaped cartilage cushioning the knee, often caused by sudden twisting or age-related deterioration. While both conditions share symptoms such as pain and reduced mobility, arthritis typically involves cartilage erosion and grinding sounds, whereas meniscus tears may present with instability or a feeling of the knee getting stuck. Differentiating these conditions is crucial for appropriate treatment.