What Exactly Does Cartilage Mean, and Why Is It Important for My Health?

Question

I’ve been hearing a lot about cartilage recently, especially when it comes to joint health, and I’m not fully sure what it actually means. I know it’s something that’s found in our joints, but how does it work? I’ve been experiencing some knee pain lately, and someone mentioned that it might have to do with the cartilage in my knee. But what exactly does cartilage mean in terms of its role in the body?

From what I gather, cartilage is like a cushion between bones, and it helps prevent friction. But if that’s the case, why do I still feel pain when I move my knee? Is it possible that I’m losing cartilage in my joints, and if so, what can I do about it? Is it true that cartilage doesn’t regenerate, or can it heal on its own?

I’ve also read that certain activities or injuries can damage cartilage, and that it doesn’t always heal the same way as other tissue. Does that mean I have to avoid certain exercises or activities that put stress on the cartilage, like running or weightlifting? Are there any supplements or natural remedies that help with cartilage repair?

Should I be seeing a specialist to check the cartilage in my knee, or can I just manage the pain with some rest and physical therapy? And how do I know if my cartilage has been damaged enough to need surgery?

Dr Sujal Patil · Accepted Answer

Cartilage is a tough, flexible tissue found in joints, and it acts as a cushion between bones, reducing friction and absorbing shock to allow smooth movement. When cartilage is damaged or worn down, it can lead to pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joint, which may explain your knee pain.

Why does cartilage cause pain?
Even though cartilage cushions the bones, if it's damaged or deteriorating, like in conditions such as osteoarthritis, it may not function properly. This leads to bones rubbing against each other, causing pain and inflammation.

Can cartilage heal?
Cartilage doesn’t regenerate in the same way as other tissues like skin or muscle. The cells in cartilage don’t divide quickly, so once it’s damaged, healing can be slow and incomplete. However, treatments like physical therapy, certain medications, and sometimes surgery can help manage symptoms and improve joint function.

Should you avoid certain activities?
High-impact exercises like running or weightlifting may aggravate joint pain if cartilage is damaged. It's important to listen to your body and avoid activities that worsen the pain. Low-impact exercises like swimming or cycling can be gentler on your joints.

Supplements and natural remedies:
Certain supplements, like glucosamine and chondroitin, may support cartilage health, although their effectiveness varies. Omega-3 fatty acids and turmeric (due to their anti-inflammatory properties) are also commonly recommended.

Specialist consultation:
If you suspect cartilage damage, seeing a specialist (like a rheumatologist or orthopedic doctor) is a good idea. They may use imaging tests (like an MRI or X-ray) to assess the cartilage condition. If the damage is significant, surgery (such as a cartilage repair or replacement) may be considered.

How do you know if surgery is needed?
If your pain is severe, persistent, and not improving with rest, physical therapy, or other treatments, surgery may be an option. A specialist can assess your case and guide you in making the best decision.

Dr. Harsha Joy · Answer

Cartilage is a flexible, connective tissue that cushions and smooths the movement between bones in your joints. It acts as a shock absorber, preventing friction and wear. When cartilage becomes damaged or worn down, it can lead to pain, especially with movement, because the bones may begin rubbing together. In conditions like osteoarthritis, cartilage can deteriorate over time, and unfortunately, cartilage has limited ability to regenerate on its own. To support cartilage health, maintaining a balanced diet with anti-inflammatory foods, along with exercises that improve joint strength without putting excessive stress on the knee, can be helpful. Ayurvedic herbs like Ashwagandha and Shallaki are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and can aid in joint health. If the pain persists or worsens, seeing a specialist to assess the condition of the cartilage is advisable to determine if treatments like physical therapy, supplements, or even surgery might be necessary.

Dr. Harsha Joy · Answer

Cartilage is a smooth, flexible tissue that acts as a cushion between bones in your joints, helping reduce friction and absorb shock during movement. When cartilage is damaged or wears down, it can lead to pain, stiffness, and inflammation, which may be the cause of your knee pain. Unfortunately, cartilage doesn't regenerate like other tissues in the body, which is why it’s important to manage joint health early on. In Ayurveda, anti-inflammatory herbs like Shallaki, Turmeric, and Guggul can support joint health and help manage pain. Exercises that strengthen the muscles around the joint can also provide support and reduce stress on the cartilage. Avoiding high-impact activities like running or heavy lifting may help prevent further strain on the knee. If your pain persists or worsens, it’s a good idea to consult a specialist to assess the cartilage condition, as they can recommend physical therapy or other treatments. If the damage is significant, surgery may be considered, but this would depend on the severity of cartilage loss and the impact on daily function.

What Exactly Does Cartilage Mean, and Why Is It Important for My Health? - #14578

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