Articular Cartilage Injuries: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Articular cartilage injuries are a common yet often overlooked cause of knee pain and dysfunction. Articular cartilage is the smooth, white tissue covering the ends of bones in joints, allowing for pain-free movement and shock absorption. Damage to this cartilage can lead to joint instability, pain, and long-term degeneration, increasing the risk of osteoarthritis.

Dr. Nandeesh Shashidhar, a highly experienced orthopedic surgeon, specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of articular cartilage injuries, using advanced techniques to restore joint function and mobility.

Causes of Articular Cartilage Injuries

Articular cartilage injuries can result from various factors, including:

• Trauma or Impact: Direct blows to the knee during sports, falls, or accidents.
• Repetitive Stress: Long-term wear and tear from running, jumping, or heavy lifting.
• Knee Instability: Ligament injuries (ACL, PCL tears) can put extra strain on the cartilage.
• Degenerative Changes: Age-related cartilage thinning increases the risk of injury.
• Genetic or Metabolic Disorders: Conditions like osteochondritis dissecans affect cartilage health.

Symptoms of Articular Cartilage Injuries

The severity of symptoms depends on the extent of cartilage damage. Common signs include:

• Pain in the Joint: Worsens with movement or weight-bearing activities.
• Swelling and Stiffness: Fluid buildup in response to cartilage damage.
• Locking or Catching Sensation: Due to loose cartilage fragments in the joint.
• Reduced Range of Motion: Difficulty bending or straightening the knee.
• Joint Instability: Feeling like the knee may give way during movement.

Diagnosis of Articular Cartilage Injuries

A proper diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment. Dr. Nandeesh Shashidhar employs:

• Physical Examination: Evaluating pain, swelling, and knee stability.
• MRI Scan: Provides a detailed view of cartilage damage.
• X-rays: Helps rule out fractures and arthritis-related changes.
• Arthroscopy: A minimally invasive procedure to assess and treat cartilage damage.

Treatment Options for Articular Cartilage Injuries

The treatment approach depends on the extent and location of the injury.

Non-Surgical Treatment

For mild or early-stage cartilage injuries:

• RICE Therapy: Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation to reduce inflammation.
• Pain Management: NSAIDs and corticosteroid injections for symptom relief.
• Physical Therapy: Strengthening surrounding muscles to support joint function.
• Viscosupplementation: Injection of hyaluronic acid to improve joint lubrication.

Surgical Treatment

For severe cartilage damage, surgical intervention may be required:

• Arthroscopic Debridement: Removing loose cartilage fragments to reduce pain and inflammation.
• Microfracture Surgery: Creating small holes in the bone to stimulate cartilage regrowth.
• Osteochondral Autograft Transfer (OATS): Transferring healthy cartilage from a non-weight-bearing area to the damaged site.
• Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation (ACI): Culturing a patient’s own cartilage cells and implanting them in the damaged area.
• Joint Replacement (Severe Cases): If damage is extensive, partial or total knee replacement may be necessary.

Rehabilitation and Recovery

Post-treatment rehabilitation is essential for optimal recovery:

• Phase 1 (0-6 Weeks): Pain control, swelling reduction, and gentle knee movement.
• Phase 2 (6-12 Weeks): Strengthening exercises and controlled weight-bearing.
• Phase 3 (3-6 Months): Improving balance, flexibility, and gradual return to activity.
• Phase 4 (6-12 Months): Full recovery with continued strengthening and prevention strategies.

Why Choose Dr. Nandeesh Shashidhar for Cartilage Injury Treatment?

• Expert in Knee Arthroscopy and Cartilage Repair
• Advanced Minimally Invasive Techniques for Faster Recovery
• Personalized Treatment Plans for Long-Term Joint Health
• Dedicated Rehabilitation Support for Optimal Recovery

If you’re experiencing knee pain or joint stiffness, schedule a consultation with Dr. Nandeesh Shashidhar to explore the best treatment options for restoring pain-free movement and joint health!