Cartilage problems in the knee can cause pain and loss of motion. The meniscus, a C-shaped cartilage pad, can tear due to injury or degeneration. Knee arthritis, characterized by gradual wear and tear of cartilage, can cause knee pain, swelling, and stiffness. Treatment includes medication, weight loss, physical therapy, and surgery. Osteoarthritis is more common in older people, those who are overweight, and those with a family history of the condition. Traumatic knee injuries can contribute to its development and progression.
While cartilage is typically both strong and flexible, it can wear away and be damaged, causing pain and loss of motion in the knee area. Among the problems that can affect the cartilage of the knee are degeneration and tearing. In some cases, a piece of cartilage in a person’s knee may even break off, causing pain and swelling.
One problem that can affect the cartilage in the knee is a tear in a person’s meniscus. The meniscus is a cartilage pad that helps maintain proper weight distribution and stability on a person’s knee; each knee has two. The medial meniscus sits on the inside of the knee while the lateral meniscus sits on the outside of a person’s knee.
The C-shaped meniscus can be damaged either through a knee injury or a degenerative condition. Often, the meniscus tears while a person is involved in a sporting activity and accidentally twists the knee while simultaneously planting all of their weight on the affected leg. This injury can be painful, but can be treated with pain relievers, rest, and ice on the knee. In severe cases, surgery may be required.
Sometimes the meniscus is torn due to age-related degeneration. As people age, the cartilage in the knee can wear away and become brittle. When this happens, it can be easier to suffer a meniscus tear. An injury related to knee cartilage degeneration can also be treated with rest, ice, and medication to maintain comfort. A doctor may also recommend surgery for severe tears.
In some cases, knee cartilage problems affect the cartilage at the ends of the knee bones. For example, a person may develop knee arthritis, which is a degenerative condition characterized by the gradual wear and tear of the cartilage in this area. Osteoarthritis is a common type of knee arthritis.
Osteoarthritis is characterized by the gradual wear and tear of the cartilage in the knee. Over time and with extended use that comes with age, cartilage can begin to deteriorate. When this happens, the bones in the joints are gradually exposed and begin to rub against each other. The result is knee pain, swelling, cracking, stiffness, and reduced flexibility. Treatment may include medications, weight loss, and physical therapy. In severe cases, patients may opt for knee replacement surgery.
Osteoarthritis is more common in older people. While it appears to be a symptom of aging, it’s also more likely to develop in people who are overweight. A person may be more likely to develop it if there is a history of the condition in their family as well. Osteoarthritis can develop on its own, but traumatic knee injuries, including those affecting the meniscus and ligaments, can contribute to its development and progression. Fractures near the knee joint can also help him.
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