Cartilage is the tough but flexible tissue that covers the ends of bones at a joint. It also gives shape and support to other parts of the body, such as the ears, nose and windpipe.
What healthy cartilage does
- lets bones glide over each other, so you can move;
- stops bones rubbing against each other, protecting them.
When cartilage is damaged
Injured, inflamed or damaged cartilage can cause pain and limited movement, and can lead to joint damage and deformity.
Causes
- tears and injuries, such as sports injuries;
- genetic factors;
- other disorders, such as some kinds of arthritis.
Osteoarthritis results from the breakdown of cartilage.
Sources
- "Cartilage Disorders," MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine, drawing on the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIH). https://medlineplus.gov/cartilagedisorders.html
- Rewritten in hubnx's own words.
Licence: CC0 1.0 (public domain) · Adapted from medlineplus.gov
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