Knee Cartilage Damage

Knee cartilage damage refers to an injury or wear and tear of the cartilage that covers the ends of bones in the knee joint. The cartilage, also known as articular cartilage, acts as a cushion between the bones, allowing for smooth movement and reducing friction.

Causes

• Trauma or injury to the knee, such as a blow to the knee or a sudden twisting motion
• Overuse or repetitive strain on the knee joint, such as from running or jumping
• Aging and wear and tear on the cartilage over time
• Obesity, which can put additional stress on the knee joint
• Genetic conditions, such as osteochondritis dissecans, which can affect the development of cartilage in the knee

Symptoms

• Pain or tenderness in the knee, especially when weight-bearing or twisting
• Swelling or inflammation in the knee
• Stiffness or limited range of motion in the knee
• A feeling of grinding or crunching in the knee when moving
• Locking or catching sensation in the knee, where the knee gets stuck in a certain position

Types of Knee Cartilage Damage

• Chondral injuries: damage to the cartilage that covers the ends of bones
• Osteochondral injuries: damage to both the cartilage and the underlying bone
• Meniscal tears: damage to the meniscus, a type of cartilage that acts as a shock absorber between the bones in the knee joint

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of knee cartilage damage typically involves a combination of:

• Physical examination and medical history
• Imaging tests, such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans, to visualize the cartilage and surrounding tissues
• Arthroscopy, a minimally invasive surgical procedure that allows for direct visualization of the joint

Treatment Options

Treatment for knee cartilage damage depends on the severity and location of the injury, as well as the individual's overall health and lifestyle. Treatment options may include:

• Conservative management: rest, ice, compression, elevation, physical therapy, and pain management with medication or injections
• Surgical repair: arthroscopy, microfracture surgery, autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI), or osteochondral allograft transplantation
• Rehabilitation and physical therapy: to improve range of motion, strength, and function in the knee joint

Prevention

To reduce the risk of knee cartilage damage, individuals can take the following steps:

• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on the knee joint
• Engage in regular exercise to strengthen the muscles around the knee
• Avoid repetitive or high-impact activities that can put excessive strain on the knee joint
• Use proper technique and equipment when participating in sports or activities that involve jumping, landing, or twisting