Knee Cartilage Injuries & Chondral Damage
Damage to the smooth cartilage surface of the knee that can cause pain, swelling, and joint catching
Cartilage injuries, defects, and chondral lesions in the knee are common causes of joint pain, swelling, and stiffness. These conditions involve damage to the cartilage lining in the knee joint, which can lead to impaired movement and long-term issues if left untreated. Dr Ben McGrath, an orthopaedic specialist, provides expert assessment and personalised treatment options to support healing and improve knee function.
- What are Cartilage Injuries, Defects, and Chondral Lesions?
- Common Symptoms of Cartilage Damage
- Causes and Risk Factors for Cartilage Injuries
- Diagnosis of Cartilage Injuries and Chondral Lesions
- Non-Surgical Treatments for Cartilage Injuries
- Surgical Treatments for Cartilage Injuries
- When to See Dr Ben McGrath for Knee Pain
- FAQs About Cartilage Injuries
What are Cartilage Injuries, Defects, and Chondral Lesions?
Cartilage injuries, defects, and chondral lesions refer to damage within the articular cartilage that lines the surfaces of bones in the knee joint. Cartilage cushions the joint and enables smooth, pain-free movement. When this cartilage is damaged—due to trauma, degeneration, or wear and tear—the underlying bone may become exposed, leading to pain, swelling, and reduced joint mobility.
Common Symptoms of Cartilage Damage
Patients with cartilage injuries or chondral lesions in the knee may experience the following symptoms:
- Pain in the Knee: Pain may be localised or felt throughout the knee, worsening with activity.
- Swelling and Stiffness: Inflammation and fluid build-up around the joint can result in swelling and restricted movement.
- Joint Locking or Catching: Damaged cartilage can cause the knee to lock, catch, or give way during movement.
- Reduced Range of Motion: Knee movement may become limited due to pain and mechanical interference within the joint.
- Grinding or Clicking Sensations: Movement may produce sounds or sensations, particularly if the damaged cartilage affects joint alignment.
Persistent symptoms may require evaluation by Dr McGrath for an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan.
Causes and Risk Factors for Cartilage Injuries
Several factors increase the likelihood of cartilage injuries and chondral lesions:
- Acute Trauma: Direct impacts, falls, or sudden twisting movements during sports can damage the cartilage.
- Repetitive Stress and Overuse: Repetitive high-impact activities, such as running or jumping, place strain on the knee cartilage.
- Ageing and Degeneration: Cartilage naturally thins with age, making it more susceptible to wear and damage.
- Previous Knee Injuries: Individuals with a history of knee injuries, such as ligament tears, have an increased risk of cartilage damage.
- Obesity: Excess weight places additional load on the knee, accelerating cartilage wear.
These factors are carefully considered in Dr McGrath’s assessment to provide a personalised approach to prevention and treatment.
Diagnosis of Cartilage Injuries and Chondral Lesions
Dr Ben McGrath uses a comprehensive diagnostic approach to confirm cartilage injuries and assess their extent:
- Physical Examination: Dr McGrath assesses knee pain, swelling, and range of motion, often performing specific manoeuvres to evaluate cartilage integrity.
- Imaging Tests: MRI is commonly used to assess the cartilage and identify chondral lesions. In some cases, arthroscopy (a minimally invasive procedure) may be recommended to view the cartilage directly.
Accurate diagnosis is essential for developing a tailored treatment plan to address cartilage damage effectively.
Non-Surgical Treatments for Cartilage Injuries
Non-surgical options may be effective for minor or early-stage cartilage injuries:
- Physiotherapy: A physiotherapist can guide patients through exercises to strengthen the muscles around the knee, improve joint stability, and reduce strain on the cartilage.
- Medication: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting any medication.
- Activity Modification: Avoiding high-impact activities and incorporating low-impact exercises, such as swimming or cycling, can protect the cartilage from further damage.
- Injection Therapy: In some cases, Dr McGrath may recommend injections, such as hyaluronic acid or platelet-rich plasma (PRP), to reduce inflammation and promote joint lubrication.
These conservative treatments focus on managing symptoms, improving joint function, and slowing further cartilage degeneration.
Surgical Treatments for Cartilage Injuries
For more severe cartilage damage, surgery may be recommended to restore function and alleviate pain. Surgical options include:
- Arthroscopic Debridement and Microfracture: Arthroscopic surgery may be used to remove damaged cartilage and promote healing by creating small holes in the bone, stimulating cartilage growth.
- Osteochondral Autograft Transplantation (OATS): In this procedure, healthy cartilage is taken from another part of the knee and transplanted into the damaged area to restore smooth joint surfaces.
- Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation (ACI): ACI involves harvesting and culturing the patient’s cartilage cells, which are then implanted into the knee to repair cartilage defects.
- Meniscal or Ligament Repair (if required): In some cases, additional repair of surrounding structures, such as the meniscus or ligaments, may be necessary to fully restore knee function.
Dr McGrath carefully considers each patient’s age, activity level, and specific cartilage injury type before recommending surgery. Post-surgical rehabilitation is essential for optimal recovery.
When to See Dr Ben McGrath for Knee Pain
FAQs About Cartilage Injuries
Minor cartilage injuries may heal with rest and physiotherapy, but more extensive damage often requires surgical intervention to restore joint function and prevent further deterioration.
Recovery times vary based on the specific procedure, but full recovery may take several months. Physiotherapy is critical to regaining strength and mobility post-surgery.
Yes, strengthening the muscles around the knee, maintaining flexibility, and engaging in low-impact exercises can help reduce the risk. A physiotherapist can provide a personalised program to support knee health.