Cartilage Restoration Specialist

What is cartilage, and why is it important?

Cartilage is an incredibly strong, fibrous tissue you have throughout your body. The cartilage found in your joints is called articular cartilage because it covers the areas of bone that meet (articulate) to create a joint.

Some joints have thicker articular cartilage than others, but the tissue works in all joints to help the bones glide over each other and absorb shock during weight-bearing activities. 

Articular cartilage also holds synovial fluid, which lubricates joints and circulates nourishment to keep the joints healthy. This viscous, sticky fluid is stored within articular cartilage much like water is held in a sponge, ready to be used whenever the joint bends or bears weight.   

What causes cartilage damage and loss?

Cartilage loss can lead to stiff, swollen, and painful joints. Several things can lead to cartilage loss, some that you can control and some that you can’t. 

Overuse injuries

People who are active or athletic can experience overuse injuries by moving joints in a repetitive manner. Improper technique and pushing too hard during training can also cause cartilage loss. 

Osteoarthritis

This common degenerative joint condition often worsens over the years. As your cartilage wears down, your joints are left without the proper protection and lubrication. Osteoarthritis is most common in your hips, knees, and hands.

Injuries

Any type of blunt trauma to a joint can result in cartilage loss. Sports injuries are a common cause, as are injuries from falls.  

There are steps you can take to reduce your risk of overuse injuries and traumatic injuries. Once cartilage loss occurs, it won’t resolve itself or improve without treatment. 

What is cartilage restoration?

Cartilage restoration is the term used to describe procedures that seek to restore or replace lost cartilage. Multiple approaches can help, and your practitioner performs a thorough diagnostic exam prior to choosing a treatment path. 

Some of the possible techniques for cartilage restoration include:

• Microfracture
• Abrasion arthroscopy
• Drilling
• Autologous chondrocyte implantation
• Osteochondral allograft transplantation
• Osteochondral autograft transplantation

Many cartilage restoration techniques are done using minimally invasive surgical procedures. This can reduce healing time and prevent excess bleeding. Regenerative medicine offers a powerful path toward new collagen production and joint enhancement. 

If you’re living with stiff, swollen, or painful joints, don’t accept these changes as an inevitable part of growing older. Book a consultation with Colorado Sports Medicine and Orthopaedics by calling the office or using the online booking tool today.