What is articular cartilage and what does it do?
There are two types of cartilage in the human knee: • Meniscus cartilage – This is the cartilage most commonly referred to when the term “torn cartilage” is used. These two rubbery shock absorbers sit between the upper bone of the thigh (femur) and the large bone in the lower leg (tibia). • Articular cartilage – This cartilage is the shiny, white surface that covers the ends of most bones. Articular cartilage protects the ends of bones and allows the joints to glide smoothly with less friction. It also helps to spread the loads applied to a joint. This covering is only a few millimeters thick and it has no blood supply to facilitate the healing process. Therefore, if it gets damaged, there is very little capacity for healing. What is an articular cartilage injury? An articular cartilage injury, or chondral injury, may occur as a result of a pivot or twist on a bent knee, similar to the motion that can cause a meniscus tear. Damage may also be the result of a direct blow to the knee. Ch
