Human menisci are crescent-shaped structures that play a chondroprotective role through the conversion of axial loads into “hoop-stress.” This role is perhaps best grasped through the analysis of knee biomechanics after meniscectomies or meniscal tears. In these subsets of patients, the disturbed function of the knee leads to an increase in shear forces, ultimately resulting in the progression to osteoarthritis of the affected compartment. When meniscal injuries arise, the self-healing capacity is mainly determined by the vascularity of the affected portion as well as the morphology of the tear. Hence, the peripheral portion exhibits greater regenerative properties than the central portions. Finally, menisci play an important role in joint position sensing, proprioception, and pain reception through their various neural endings. This chapter reviews the basic sciences, including the anatomy and biomechanics of the meniscus.