Cartilage is a connective tissue that provides a smooth surface for joint movement and acts as a shock absorber between bones. Cartilage wear, also known as osteoarthritis, is a chronic degenerative disease that involves the gradual loss of articular cartilage due to a chronic inflammatory process.
Cartilage wear and tear can be caused by a variety of factors, including aging, knee injuries, being overweight, and medical conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis. In addition, certain blows, injuries from accidents or the practice of sports can also contribute to this wear and tear.
Common symptoms of cartilage wear include pain, inflammation, and loss of mobility in the knee. The diagnosis is made through an X-ray of the knee, where the specialist observes characteristic signs of osteoarthritis, such as narrowing of the joint space and changes in the bone.
In some cases, additional tests (MRIs or CT scans) may be required to determine the condition of the bone and soft tissues.
Analgesics and anti-inflammatories are commonly used to relieve pain and inflammation associated with cartilage wear.
Intra-articular injections and injections are another method of treatment. These injections may contain different substances, some common options are:
Hyaluronic acid viscosupplementation involves injecting this substance into the joint to improve function and relieve painful symptoms. This treatment offers good results in the medium and long term by providing a lubricating and nourishing effect for the cartilage.
Injections of corticosteroids and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) may also be helpful in treating cartilage wasting. Corticosteroids have properties that help reduce inflammation, while PRP focuses on promoting the healing of damaged tissue.
Physical therapy and rehabilitation are essential components of treating cartilage wear.
Recommended exercises for cartilage wear typically focus on muscle strengthening and improving flexibility and mobility.
Muscle strengthening helps support and stabilize the knee joint, which can relieve pressure on the cartilage and reduce pain.
Flexibility and mobility exercises maintain knee function and prevent stiffness.
Physical therapy can include a variety of techniques, including: manual therapy, therapeutic exercises, and patient education on how to move and perform activities in a way that protects the joints and promotes proper healing.
Nutritional supplements, such as glucosamine and chondroitin, may be helpful for some people with cartilage wasting. These supplements minimize the sensation of pain, reduce inflammation, and promote cartilage health.
Alternative therapies, such as acupuncture and chiropractic, can also be helpful for some people, as they serve to mitigate pain and improve knee function.
Surgery is generally considered when the pain is severe and significantly limits the patient’s quality of life. It may also be recommended when other conservative treatments have not been effective enough.
Surgical options for cartilage wear may include arthroscopy, osteotomy, partial knee replacement, or total knee replacement. The choice of surgical procedure will depend on several factors such as: the patient’s age, activity level, general health and the extent of cartilage wear.
