Articular Cartilage Injury

What is an Articular Cartilage Injury?

The articular cartilage lines the ends of bones where they form a joint. It is also known as hyaline cartilage and is different to the two rings of cartilage in the knee, known as the meniscus. The function of this cartilage is smooth movement between the bones.

The articular cartilage is most frequently injured in conjunction with another injury, such as an ACL or PCL tear. The articular cartilage has a very poor blood supply and so injuries are unlikely to heal well. This injury also increases the risk of developing osteoarthritis later on.

Symptoms of an articular cartilage injury include:

• Repeated swelling and poorly localised pain in the knee joint.
• Feelings of locking or giving way at the knee joint.
• Clicking on knee movements.

Treatment

• RICE principle - rest; ice; compression; elevation.
• Wear a knee support.
• Visit a specialist, who may:
• Prescribe anti-inflammatory medication.
• Refer for an X-ray or MRI scan.
• Advise on a rehabilitation programme.
• If this fails, surgery may be considered.

Recommended Products:

• Cold therapy - Ice packs and wraps can be used to ease pain and reduce inflammation.
• Knee supports - A knee support may be worn to provide support and heat retention.

Please see the Virtual Sports Injury Clinic for more information on how to treat an Articular Cartilage Injury and other causes of knee pain