Yes, cartilage can break.
Understanding Cartilage Damage
Cartilage, a resilient yet flexible tissue, provides cushioning and support in joints and other areas of the body. While durable, it's not indestructible and can be damaged through injury or wear and tear. The following sections describe the ways cartilage can break.
Types of Cartilage Breaks
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Fractures: Cartilage can fracture, similar to how bones do, especially under significant force.
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Tears: Tears can occur in cartilage, particularly in areas like the meniscus of the knee.
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Fragmentation: According to provided reference, "Occasionally, an articular cartilage fragment completely breaks loose from the underlying bone". This creates what's known as a loose body.
- Loose Bodies: These fragments, also called "joint mice," float within the joint space and can interfere with normal joint movement.
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Chondral Lesions: These are areas of damage within the cartilage that may not involve a complete break but weaken the tissue and can progress over time.
Causes of Cartilage Damage
Cartilage breaks can occur due to a variety of reasons:
- Trauma: Direct blows or sudden twisting motions.
- Overuse: Repetitive stress on a joint.
- Age-related Degeneration: Osteoarthritis, where cartilage breaks down over time.
- Underlying Conditions: Such as rheumatoid arthritis.
Symptoms of a Cartilage Break
Symptoms can vary depending on the location and severity of the break. Common symptoms include:
- Joint pain
- Swelling
- Stiffness
- Clicking or popping sensations
- Locking of the joint
Treatment
Treatment options range from conservative management (rest, physical therapy) to surgical interventions, depending on the extent of the damage. For example, if a loose body is present, surgery may be required to remove it and alleviate symptoms.
