Fibrocartilage is a strong and durable type of cartilage found in areas such as the knee, spine, and pubic bone. It contains visible collagen bundles and is involved in joint articulation and protection. Injury may require surgery for repair or stabilization.
Fibrocartilage is a type of cartilage that is very rich in type I collagen and is found in areas such as the knee meniscus, symphysis pubis and vertebral discs. This type of cartilage is especially strong and durable, so it appears in areas where these stretches are needed. It can hurt in the form of tearing, with surgery often needed to repair a fibrocartilage injury or to stabilize the area where the injury occurs so healing can occur.
This form of cartilage is characterized by the tough collagen bundles that are clearly visible under a microscope when examined. The bundles are interspersed with clefts that contain cartilage cells, and the cartilage comprises a mixture of type I and II collagen, along with other cartilage components. Collagen bundles are part of what makes fibrocartilage so tough; while individual strands may break, others will retain their strength and support structure to prevent the cartilage from being compromised.
Along the spine, fibrocartilage is needed to create padding between the vertebrae and at the same time offer some protection to the spinal cord. Having an articulated spine is what allows bodies to bend, but it also creates vulnerabilities in each joint. Fibrocartilage supports the spine and the joints of the spine, absorbs shock, and creates an articulation surface so that the vertebrae can move smoothly when someone bends or twists the spine.
In the public symphysis, the cartilaginous joint that includes part of the pubic bone, the fibrocartilage holds the joint together, but it can also soften and separate during pregnancy to allow for the expanding uterus to accommodate. During labor and delivery, it separates further so the baby can exit, before firming up again after pregnancy to stabilize the pelvis. This softening occurs in response to the release of a hormone known as relaxin.
In joints such as the knee, fibrocartilage is involved in the articulation of the joint while also protecting the joint. This type of cartilage appears in many other joints that see a lot of use and can be subject to high impact, because it is less prone to tearing and separating than other forms of cartilage. Problems with the cartilage in a joint can lead to problems such as pain and tenderness in the joint, stiffness, and eventual damage to the bone as the cartilage padding is worn away.
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