Cartilage

Scientists have recently discovered a new treatment strategy for damaged cartilage.

What is it?

• It is a strong, flexible connective tissue that protects your joints and bones.
• It acts as a shock absorber throughout your body.
• Cartilage at the end of your bones reduces friction and prevents them from rubbing together when you use your joints.
• It’s also the main tissue in some parts of your body and gives them their structure and shape.
• Types — There are three types of cartilage in the body,
• Hyaline cartilage —
  • • It is the most common type of cartilage.
    • It lines the joints and caps at the ends of your bones. Hyaline cartilage at the ends of your bones is sometimes referred to as articular cartilage.
    • Hyaline cartilage is slippery and smooth which helps the bones move smoothly past each other in your joints.
• Fibrocartilage —
  • • It is tough cartilage made of thick fibers.
    • It’s the strongest and least flexible of the three types. It’s tough enough to hold parts of your body in place and absorb impacts.
• Elastic cartilage —
  • • It is the most flexible cartilage.
    • It supports parts of your body that need to bend and move to function.
    • Elastic cartilage can bounce back to its original shape, even after a strong force.