There are a few common symptoms you may experience if you injure your articular cartilage. These symptoms can include pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joint where the cartilage is located. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention to ensure that you have not injured your articular cartilage and to begin treatment if you have.
There are a few common treatments that are available for those who have injured their articular cartilage. These treatments can include steroid injections, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, and rest. If the injury is more severe, surgery may be required to repair the damage.
The primary function of your articular cartilage is to allow your bones and joints to smoothly glide over each other with minimal resistance. It is specifically designed to to protect the ends of your bones and joints. There are three types of cartilage in your body. The presence of hyaline cartilage (articular cartilage), can be defined as spongy, fortified, and elastic in nature. You can find this cartilage between your ribs, your windpipe (trachea), and joints.
What are the Symptoms You May Feel if You Injured Your Articular Cartilage?
- Inflammation
- Swelling
- Tenderness
- Pain
- Stiffness
- Limited mobility
When we discuss articular cartilage damage, we are generally referencing trauma that has occurred to the knee joint, however, your elbow, wrist, ankle, shoulder and hip can all be affected.
What Treatment is Available?
- Steroid injections (on an occasional basis)
- Non-steroid anti-inflammatory medications
- Physical therapy
- Rest
- Ice pack (compression)
- Keep the affected area elevated
- Surgery