Knee Cartilage Injury

Here are some of the common types of knee cartilage injuries:

• Articular cartilage injury – This refers to damage to the smooth tissue that covers the ends of the bones in the knee joint. It is often caused by natural wear and tear, trauma, overuse or degenerative diseases such as osteoarthritis.
• Meniscus tear – This refers to a tear in the C-shaped cartilage in the joint (meniscus) that serves as a shock absorber between the shinbone and the thigh bone. It can be caused by the sudden twisting or rotating of the knee or force or even simple movements like kneeling and squatting.
• Osteoarthritis – Also known as “wear and tear arthritis,” osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease in which the cartilage in the knee begins to break down over time.
• Osteochondritis dissecans – This is a condition in which the underlying bone of the knee’s cartilage becomes loose due to lack of blood flow. Although its cause is unknown, it is often linked to repetitive trauma or stress to the bones, low vitamin D, and genetic predisposition to the condition.
• Chondromalacia patella – Colloquially known as “runner’s knee,” chondromalacia patella refers to the softening or swelling of the cartilage lining the underside of the kneecap. This condition is commonly caused by the overuse of the knee, poorly aligned bones and muscles around the knee joint, infection in the knee joint, and trauma or injury to the knee.
• Patellar dislocation – This occurs when the patella (kneecap) slips out from its natural position at the vertical groove at the knee joint, typically due to a sudden change in the direction or turn that twists the knee. In some cases, patellar dislocation may be congenital, commonly due to developmental abnormalities.

• Age – As we grow older, the cartilage in our knee joint naturally weakens and becomes more susceptible to injuries.
• Gender – Research indicates that women, particularly those middle-aged and above, are more prone to certain types of knee cartilage injuries than men. This may be linked to women having wider hips, which changes the alignment and mechanics of their lower bodies, placing more pressure on the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). Aside from this, oestrogen fluctuations – which has effects on the musculoskeletal system – can also make women more susceptible to injuries.
• Genetics – Certain genetic factors can predispose individuals to knee cartilage injuries. For example, some people may be born with weaker or less elastic cartilage, rendering them more susceptible to injury.
• Trauma – Direct injury to the knee joint, including forceful twisting or bending, can result in cartilage damage. Such injuries are common in contact sports or accidents.
• Overuse – Chronic stress on the knee joint can lead to cartilage damage over time. This is particularly prevalent among athletes and individuals who regularly engage in activities that involve frequent running, jumping, turning, and pivoting.
• Obesity – Obesity or being overweight significantly increases the stress on the knee joint, contributing to an elevated risk of cartilage injury.
• History of knee injuries – Individuals with a history of knee injuries are at increased risk of subsequent ones, including knee cartilage injuries.
• Pre-existing medical conditions – Certain medical conditions, such as arthritis, can exacerbate the risk of knee cartilage injuries due to the added joint inflammation and degradation.