**Core Concept**
Meniscal injuries are a type of knee injury that occurs when the meniscus, a cartilaginous structure in the knee joint, is damaged. The meniscus plays a crucial role in absorbing shock, distributing load, and facilitating smooth movement of the knee joint.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The most common mechanism of meniscal injury is a twisting or bending force on a flexed knee, often in combination with a valgus or varus stress. This occurs when an individual suddenly changes direction while running, pivots on one leg, or lands awkwardly from a jump. The twisting force causes the meniscus to tear or become displaced from its normal position, leading to pain, swelling, and limited mobility.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Meniscal injuries are not typically associated with direct blows to the knee or patellar fractures.
**Option B:** While meniscal injuries can occur in conjunction with ligamentous knee injuries, they are not a direct result of ligament sprains.
**Option C:** Meniscal injuries are not primarily caused by degenerative changes or osteoarthritis, although these conditions can increase the risk of meniscal damage.

**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A key risk factor for meniscal injuries is a combination of knee flexion and twisting motion, which can be remembered using the mnemonic "F-T" (Flexion-Twisting).

**Correct Answer: B. Ligamentous knee injuries.**