The knee joint relies on cartilage to support smooth and efficient movement while cushioning the bones during activities. Damage to this cartilage can disrupt daily mobility and lead to discomfort or long-term joint complications if untreated. This article provides an overview of knee cartilage injuries, their causes, symptoms, and available treatments.
Cartilage is a specialised tissue found in the knee, serving as both a cushion and a facilitator of movement. There are two main types of cartilage in the knee:
This smooth, glossy tissue covers the ends of bones in the joint, reducing friction and aiding in effortless movement. It also helps to distribute weight evenly during physical activities.
This is a C-shaped cartilage structure that acts as a shock absorber between the thigh and shin bones. It helps stabilise the joint and protect other structures from wear and tear.
Knee cartilage injuries often manifest through various physical and functional changes in the joint.
Pain is often localised around the knee and tends to worsen with movement or after prolonged periods of inactivity.
The injured knee may appear swollen due to inflammation and feel stiff, making it difficult to bend or extend the leg fully.
Damage to cartilage can limit how far the knee can move, affecting activities like walking or climbing stairs.
Loose fragments of cartilage within the joint can cause the knee to lock or catch suddenly during movement.
The knee may feel weak or unstable, especially when bearing weight.
Knee cartilage injuries can arise from various factors, including trauma and gradual wear over time.
Sudden incidents, such as twisting the knee during sports or experiencing a direct blow to the joint, can cause acute cartilage damage. These injuries are common in athletes and physically active individuals.
Over time, the cartilage can wear down due to conditions such as osteoarthritis, which leads to gradual joint damage. Repetitive use and ageing also contribute to this degeneration.
Genetic predisposition to weaker cartilage, combined with lifestyle factors such as obesity, may increase the likelihood of injury. Excess weight places additional strain on the joint, accelerating cartilage breakdown.
Accurate diagnosis of a knee cartilage injury involves a combination of clinical evaluation and imaging techniques.
Doctors review symptoms, prior injuries, and activity levels to narrow down the potential cause. The physical examination includes testing joint movement, identifying areas of tenderness, and evaluating any swelling or instability.
X-rays are typically used to exclude bone-related injuries or abnormalities. MRI scans provide a more detailed view of the knee’s soft tissues, including cartilage, and are necessary for evaluating the extent of the injury.
For cases where imaging is inconclusive, arthroscopy may be performed. This minimally invasive procedure involves inserting a small camera into the knee joint, allowing for a direct visual assessment of cartilage damage and other joint structures.
The treatment for knee cartilage injuries varies depending on the severity and underlying cause. Options range from conservative measures to surgical interventions.
Resting the knee reduces stress on the joint, allowing it to heal. Applying ice helps alleviate swelling and inflammation, while compression and elevation minimise fluid build-up, promoting comfort and recovery.
Targeted exercises improve the strength and flexibility of muscles supporting the knee. This reduces strain on the joint and enhances stability. Low-impact activities like swimming and cycling are often incorporated to avoid further stress.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can relieve pain and reduce swelling. These medications are generally recommended for short-term use during the initial recovery phase.
Hyaluronic acid injections improve the lubrication of the joint, facilitating smoother movement. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy utilises growth factors from the patient’s blood to promote tissue repair and reduce inflammation in some cases.
Small holes are drilled into the underlying bone to encourage the growth of fibrocartilage, a type of cartilage that can fill in damaged areas. This technique is often used for smaller injuries but may not restore the original cartilage’s full function.
Autologous Chondrocyte Implanation
This procedure involves harvesting healthy cartilage cells from the patient’s own body, cultivating them in a lab, and implanting them back into the damaged area. It is a two-step process designed to regenerate cartilage for long-term improvement.
Healthy cartilage is taken from another part of the patient’s body (autograft) or from a donor (allograft) to replace the damaged cartilage. This method is suitable for larger defects and aims to restore both structure and function.
If the meniscus is damaged, it can often be repaired using stitching techniques that allow the tissue to heal. For cases where the damage is too extensive, the meniscus may be replaced with donor tissue to restore its function. These procedures aim to re-establish cushioning within the joint and prevent additional wear on surrounding cartilage and bone.
Preventing knee cartilage injuries involves maintaining good joint health through balanced activities and appropriate habits. Regularly warming up before physical activities and performing stretching exercises can prepare muscles and joints for movement, reducing injury risks. Strengthening exercises, particularly for the quadriceps and hamstrings, can provide better knee support. Maintaining a healthy weight helps minimise stress on the knee joints, while wearing suitable footwear ensures proper alignment and cushioning during activities.
If knee pain, swelling, or reduced movement persists beyond a few days or worsens with time, consulting a healthcare professional is recommended. Sudden locking of the joint or a sensation of instability may indicate significant damage requiring medical intervention. Early evaluation can identify the issue and allow for timely treatment to prevent further joint complications.
Knee cartilage injuries can limit mobility and lead to long-term discomfort if not addressed. Recognising the symptoms and learning about the available treatment options can help manage the condition effectively. A combination of timely intervention, rehabilitation, and preventive measures supports joint health and reduces the likelihood of further complications.
For personalised advice and treatment, schedule a consultation today to discuss your specific knee concerns.
MBBS (S’pore)
MRCS (Ireland)
MMed (Ortho)
FRCSEd (Ortho)
Dr Kau (许医生) is a Fellowship trained Orthopaedic Surgeon with a subspecialty interest in Hip and Knee surgery and has been in practice for more than 15 years.
He is experienced in trauma and fracture management, sports injuries, and joint replacement surgery.
If you have any enquiry, please do get in touch. Leave us a message and we will get back to you shortly.
Information on knee bursitis causes, symptoms, and treatment options in Singapore. Learn about joint swelling triggers and evaluation options available.
Learn how to safely unlock a locked knee. Understand the difference between true mechanical and pseudo-locking, and find evaluation options in Singapore.
Knee pain when climbing stairs? Learn what causes it, how it's diagnosed, and what treatment options can help you move freely again.
Knee pain when squatting can stem from the patellofemoral joint, meniscus, ligaments, or tendons. Learn what your pain pattern means and when to seek treatment.
Discover how knee replacement surgery in Singapore can restore your mobility. Learn about the process, recovery timeline, and practical tips for a successful outcome.
Learn about robotic knee replacement surgery, including potential benefits, risks, and recovery considerations. Understanding robotic-assisted surgical options.
Information on knee injection options for osteoarthritis, including corticosteroids, hyaluronic acid, and PRP. Understanding potential benefits and considerations.
Skiing places immense rotational and shearing forces on the knee joint, often targeting the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), which has minimal blood supply and typically does not heal well once completely torn. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced skier, situations like “phantom foot” falls or sudden stops can easily exceed the tensile strength […]
Returning from a ski trip with lingering pain? Learn when winter sports injuries need evaluation by an orthopaedic surgeon and what to expect.
Recognise meniscal tear symptoms from skiing injuries, understand diagnostic methods, and discover recovery options for returning to the slopes.
