Cartilage is a flexible connective tissue found throughout the human body. It provides structural support and acts as a shock absorber, present in various locations from joint surfaces to organ frameworks.
Different Kinds of Cartilage
The human body contains three primary types of cartilage, each with unique characteristics and locations. Hyaline cartilage, the most common type, has a glossy, bluish-white appearance and is quite resilient. It is found on the surfaces of joints, at the ends of ribs, and in the nose, larynx, trachea, and bronchi.
Elastic cartilage is more pliable and has a yellowish appearance due to the presence of elastic fibers in addition to collagen. This type of cartilage provides support while maintaining shape, making it suitable for structures like the external ear, the auditory tube of the middle ear, and the epiglottis.
Fibrocartilage is the strongest type of cartilage, characterized by dense masses of Type I collagen fibers interwoven with layers of hyaline cartilage matrix. It is exceptionally tough and resistant to compressive forces. This robust tissue is predominantly found in intervertebral discs, the menisci of the knee, and at the insertion points of ligaments and tendons.
What Cartilage Does
Cartilage serves multiple functions, enabling smooth bodily movement and providing structural integrity. It supports various body parts, such as the nose and ears, maintaining their shape and flexibility.
In joints, cartilage acts as a smooth, low-friction surface, allowing bones to glide and reducing wear and tear. It also functions as a shock absorber, cushioning bones and joints during movement and impact, which helps distribute forces and reduce stress on the skeletal system.
When Cartilage Gets Damaged
Cartilage can be damaged through acute injuries or degenerative conditions. Acute injuries, such as those from trauma or sports accidents, can result from forceful impacts or twisting motions, causing cartilage to detach from the bone. These injuries are common in physically active individuals and can affect joints like the knee, hip, and ankle.
Degenerative conditions, like osteoarthritis, involve the gradual breakdown of cartilage over time due to wear and tear. This process can cause the cartilage to thin, fray, or crack, leading to symptoms such as pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Cartilage has limited self-repair capabilities because it lacks blood vessels, nerves, and lymphatic supply. Nutrients and waste products move through diffusion from surrounding tissues, which slows the healing process after injury.
Keeping Cartilage Healthy
Maintaining cartilage health involves a combination of lifestyle choices and proper care. Regular, moderate exercise helps nourish cartilage by facilitating the diffusion of nutrients and waste products. Low-impact activities like cycling, swimming, walking, or using an elliptical machine are beneficial because they provide joint movement without excessive stress.
Maintaining a healthy weight is also important, as excess body weight places additional stress on joints, particularly the knees, accelerating cartilage wear. For instance, every pound of body weight can translate to several pounds of pressure on the knees. A balanced diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, fish, nuts, and beans, can support joint health and reduce inflammation. Avoiding repetitive high-impact activities or using improper form during exercise can help prevent stress and damage to cartilage.