Do all cartilage injuries require surgery?

No, not all cartilage injuries need surgery. Mild injuries can improve with conservative treatments like rest, physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medication, and injections. However, significant or full-thickness cartilage defects that do not heal on their own often require surgery to stimulate cartilage regrowth or repair.

What is the recovery process like after cartilage injury treatment?

Recovery time varies based on the type of treatment. Minor injuries may heal in a few weeks. Major cartilage repair procedures require progressive rehabilitation over four to six months to slowly strengthen the joint and allow cartilage to integrate. Restrictions on bearing full weight or returning too quickly to activity should be strictly followed.

How long does it take to recover from a cartilage injury?

Mild cartilage injuries can heal within a few weeks up to two months. Recovering from major surgical treatments typically takes a minimum of four to six months. Full maturation and strengthening of cartilage after surgery can take over a year. Factors like location, size, and treatment method all impact overall recovery time.

Are there any non-surgical treatments for cartilage injuries?

Yes, treatments like rest, ice, compression, elevation, anti-inflammatory medication, braces, physical therapy, gel injections, steroid injections, viscosupplementation, prolotherapy, and PRP therapy can help manage cartilage injury symptoms non-surgically. However, none of these options are able to repair significant structural damage so these options may not be suitable in every case.

Are there any alternative or experimental treatments for cartilage injuries?

Emerging treatments like Cartilage Autograft Implantation System (CAIS), DeNovo NT graft, and scaffolds with growth factors or stem cells show promise for cartilage repair. Oral glucosamine/chondroitin or injectable hyaluronic acid also aims to improve cartilage health. In addition to the promising treatments of today, more research is underway on cartilage regeneration techniques so we can expect to see some promising breakthroughs in the near future as well.

Who is at high risk for cartilage injuries?

While anyone and everyone can be affected by cartilage injuries, some people are a higher risk than others. Those who should be particularly cautious include people who have any of the following risk factors:

• Age: Cartilage breaks down as people get older and that means that older adults are more susceptible to cartilage tears and injuries. In particular, athletes over the age of 40 have a higher risk than the rest of the population.

• Sports: Athletes who play sports with frequent pivoting, twisting, and impact are more likely to deal with sports injuries and cartilage tears. This risk factor is especially true for anyone who plays sports like football, basketball, soccer, tennis, gymnastics, and hockey. The repetitive movements that these sports require can wear down cartilage over time.

• Previous injury: People who have already had a cartilage injury or surgery are more likely to develop further cartilage damage. The existing damage makes the cartilage weaker and more vulnerable.

• Obesity: Excess weight puts added stress and pressure on the joints, which increases your risk of cartilage degeneration and injury. While exercise is good for your overall health, the impact of physical activity is greater when you have more body weight.

• Improper training: Athletes who do too much high-impact activity without building up gradually or without resting enough between sessions have a higher risk of overuse injuries like cartilage tears.

• Anatomical factors: Some people are just built with increased susceptibility for cartilage damage due to the shape, alignment, or structure of their joints and bones. Unfortunately, this is one risk factor that simply can’t be helped.

• Genetics: In addition to having certain unique physical traits, research has found that some people may be prone to cartilage degeneration based on their genetics and family history.

Ultimately, the biggest factors are age, sports participation, previous injury, and obesity. Proper training and joint protection strategies can help reduce risk for athletes and active individuals but some baseline risk will always exist.

Can I return to sports or physical activities after cartilage injury treatment?

It is possible to return to sports after surgery, but high-impact activities may increase the recurrence risk as well as cause gradual wear. If you are an athlete, it is important to discuss your goals with your healthcare professional and ease back into your normal activities over many months as the joint gains its strength back. Certain key modifications like the use of braces and ongoing conditioning can be good tools to help you get back to your normal lifestyle.

Are there any specific exercises or physical therapy for cartilage injury rehabilitation?

Yes, physical therapy is vital after cartilage surgery, with gradual progression in weight bearing, range of motion, flexibility, strengthening, balance, and impact exercises. Gaining a solid level of muscle control around the joint prevents re-injury.

Ultimately, maintaining your customised physical therapy is key as it will be focused on safely restoring your body’s function while avoiding overstressing your healing cartilage.