Articular cartilage

Definition

Articular cartilage is a smooth, white tissue that covers the ends of bones where they come together to form joints. This specialized cartilage reduces friction between the bones during movement and acts as a shock absorber, providing a smooth surface for joint motion. The health of articular cartilage is crucial in understanding various joint disorders and rheumatic diseases that can lead to pain and limited mobility.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Articular cartilage is composed primarily of water, collagen fibers, and proteoglycans, which help maintain its structure and function.
2. Injuries or degeneration of articular cartilage can lead to conditions such as osteoarthritis, where the lack of cartilage results in bone-on-bone contact.
3. Articular cartilage has a limited capacity for self-repair due to its avascular nature, meaning it lacks blood supply which hinders nutrient delivery and healing.
4. The health of articular cartilage can be influenced by factors such as age, weight, and joint overuse, highlighting the importance of proper joint care.
5. Treatments for articular cartilage damage may include physical therapy, medications, or surgical options like arthroscopy or cartilage repair techniques.

Review Questions

• How does the structure of articular cartilage contribute to its function in joints?
  • Articular cartilage's structure is specifically designed to facilitate smooth movement between bones at joints. Its smooth surface reduces friction, allowing for fluid motion while also providing a cushioning effect to absorb shock during activities like walking or jumping. The composition of water, collagen fibers, and proteoglycans also contributes to its durability and flexibility, which are vital for maintaining joint integrity.
• Discuss the implications of articular cartilage damage on overall joint health and mobility.
  • Damage to articular cartilage can significantly impair joint health by leading to conditions such as osteoarthritis. When the cartilage deteriorates, it fails to provide adequate cushioning and lubrication for the joint, resulting in increased friction and pain. This can restrict mobility, affect daily activities, and lead to further complications if not addressed effectively through appropriate treatments or lifestyle modifications.
• Evaluate current treatment strategies for articular cartilage injuries and their effectiveness in restoring joint function.
  • Current treatment strategies for articular cartilage injuries range from conservative measures like physical therapy and anti-inflammatory medications to more invasive options such as surgical interventions like microfracture or autologous chondrocyte implantation. These approaches aim to restore function by either repairing or replacing damaged cartilage. Research indicates that while some treatments can yield positive outcomes in pain reduction and improved mobility, success varies based on injury severity and patient factors. Therefore, a tailored treatment plan is essential for optimizing recovery.

Related terms

Osteoarthritis:

A degenerative joint disease characterized by the breakdown of articular cartilage, leading to pain, swelling, and decreased joint mobility.

Synovial fluid: A viscous fluid found in synovial joints that lubricates the articular cartilage, reducing friction and facilitating smooth joint movements.

Chondrocytes: Cells found in cartilage that are responsible for maintaining the cartilage matrix and producing new cartilage material.