Best place to start here is understanding the terms of cartilage and meniscus. Technically the meniscus is a type of cartilage. The other type of cartilage in the knee is called articular cartilage. Read on to find out the difference.
The first is MENISCAL CARTILAGE which is a C-shaped piece of cartilage in the knee joint that acts as a cushion between the shinbone (tibia) and the thighbone (femur). Each knee has two menisci, one on the inside (medial meniscus) and one on the outer side (lateral meniscus). The primary role of these structures is to help absorb shock, stabilise the knee, and distribute weight across the joint.
Meniscus injuries are common, particularly among athletes, and can occur due to sudden twisting or turning motions, especially with the foot planted and the knee bent. They can also result from direct impact or degenerative changes in older adults. Symptoms of a Meniscus Injury include pain, reduced range of movement and occasional instability.
The second is ARTICULAR CARTILAGE which is a smooth, white hard tissue that covers the ends of bones where they come together to form joints. Its primary function is to reduce friction and absorb shock in the joint, enabling smooth and painfree movement. Strong enough to withstand the pressures and stresses of movement and weightbearing, articular damage is often linked with osteoarthritis.
Physiotherapy can be very beneficial to help recover from either type of cartilage injury. Treatment is often learning how to reduce pain and improve surrounding strength and stability.
If you think you have injured the cartilage in your knee we would be happy to see you at the clinic for a full and comprehensive assessment and a rehabilitation plan.
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