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Cartilage Disorders
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Bones Joints Muscles

Cartilage Disorders

Cartilage is a vital, flexible tissue that cushions joints and supports body structures, and its damage can lead to significant pain and limited mobility.

Overview

Cartilage is the tough but flexible tissue that covers the ends of your bones at a joint. It also gives shape and support to other parts of your body, such as your ears, nose and windpipe. Healthy cartilage helps you move by allowing your bones to glide over each other. It also protects bones by preventing them from rubbing against each other.

Symptoms and Causes

Injured, inflamed, or damaged cartilage can cause symptoms such as pain and limited movement. It can also lead to joint damage and deformity. Causes of cartilage problems include:

  • Tears and injuries, such as sports injuries
  • Genetic factors
  • Other disorders, such as some types of arthritis

Osteoarthritis results from the breakdown of cartilage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Beyond general pain and limited movement, specific signs of cartilage damage can include a persistent clicking, popping, or grinding sensation in the joint, a feeling of the joint catching or locking, instability or "giving way," and swelling that doesn't resolve. Pain that consistently worsens with weight-bearing activities or specific movements is also a key indicator. If you experience these symptoms, especially after an injury, it's important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.
Non-surgical management often involves a combination of strategies. Physical therapy is crucial for strengthening surrounding muscles, improving joint stability, and restoring range of motion. Lifestyle adjustments include maintaining a healthy weight to reduce joint stress, modifying activities to avoid high-impact movements, and using assistive devices like braces or canes if needed. Over-the-counter pain relievers or anti-inflammatory medications can help manage symptoms, and some people find relief with hot/cold therapy or topical creams. Proper nutrition and hydration also support overall joint health.
While no specific diet can cure cartilage disorders, a balanced, anti-inflammatory diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and omega-3 fatty acids can support overall joint health and reduce inflammation. Some people find certain supplements, such as glucosamine, chondroitin, or MSM, helpful for symptom management, though scientific evidence for their effectiveness in repairing cartilage is mixed. Vitamin D and calcium are important for bone health, which indirectly supports joint function. Always discuss any dietary changes or supplement use with your doctor to ensure they are appropriate for your specific condition and won't interact with other medications.
Surgical options for cartilage disorders vary depending on the type and extent of damage. Common procedures include arthroscopy for debridement (smoothing rough edges) or microfracture (creating small holes to stimulate new cartilage growth). More advanced techniques involve cartilage transplantation, such as autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI) or osteochondral autograft transfer system (OATS), where healthy cartilage is harvested and implanted into the damaged area. Recovery typically involves a period of immobilization, followed by extensive physical therapy for several weeks to months to regain strength and mobility. Full return to strenuous activities can take six months to a year or more, depending on the procedure and individual healing.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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