Knee cartilage lesions are one of the most common sources of knee pain and dysfunction, commonly affecting athletes, the elderly and people with a history of knee injury. The knee joint relies heavily on the integrity of its cartilage for smooth and painless movement. Damage to the cartilage in the knee can disrupt this delicate balance, causing pain, swelling, stiffness and ultimately loss of mobility.
What are knee cartilage lesions?
Knee cartilage lesions refer to damage or injury to the cartilage in the knee joint. Cartilage is a firm, flexible connective tissue that covers the bone surfaces in the knee joint (femur, tibia and patella), and allows for smooth movement and minimal friction of the joint surfaces. Damage to the cartilage of the knee can cause significant knee pain, limited functionality and the potential for further degeneration of the joint if left untreated. Cartilage lesions in the knee can range from mild cartilage thickening to complete tears that may require surgery.
What causes knee cartilage lesions?
Knee cartilage lesions can result from a number of factors. The most common of these are:
- Injury, as acute injuries such as twisting, hyperextension or direct blows to the knee can cause cartilage tears. Sports such as football, basketball and skiing often involve quick spins, jumps or sudden changes of direction, which can cause the knee to twist or absorb high impact forces, causing cartilage damage. Also, an injury in a car accident, especially when the knee is forced into an unnatural position, can cause damage to the knee cartilage.
- Degenerative changes, due to age and prolonged use. Osteoarthritis is one of the most common causes of knee cartilage damage in the elderly.
- Repetitive strain due to sports activity or nature of work. For example, long-distance runners are at increased risk for cartilage damage due to the constant impact and stress on the knee joint.
- Anatomical abnormalities, such as high knee cap position or abnormal alignment of the femur or tibia, can increase pressure on the cartilage and lead to damage. People with anatomical abnormalities may develop cartilage damage earlier or more severely than others.
The symptoms of knee cartilage lesions
Knee cartilage lesions manifest themselves in a variety of ways, with symptoms ranging from mild discomfort to severe pain and disability. The most common include:
- Pain and tenderness, in the area of the lesion or spreading throughout the knee joint. Pain intensity often increases with activity and weight bearing. In more severe cases, the pain may persist even when the knee is at rest.
- Swelling and stiffness around the knee joint. Inflammation from damaged cartilage can cause fluid to build up in the joint, causing noticeable swelling. Stiffness may also occur, making it difficult to fully extend or bend the knee.
- Locking sensation, where the joint temporarily blocks and cannot move smoothly.
- Reduced range of motion, which makes everyday activities such as walking, sitting or climbing stairs increasingly difficult.
Procedure for the diagnosis of knee cartilage lesions
The diagnostic process usually involves a combination of clinical evaluation and imaging examinations.
The doctor will first perform a physical examination to evaluate symptoms such as swelling, tenderness and range of motion. Special tests, such as the McMurray or Apley tests, may be performed to evaluate for meniscal tears or other cartilage injuries.
In addition, imaging tests such as radiographs (to detect bone changes), MRI (for more detailed images of the soft tissues) and seldom diagnostic arthroscopy (for direct visualisation of the cartilage and possible damage) may also be needed.
How are cartilage lesions in the knee treated?
Treatment of knee cartilage lesions depends on the severity of the lesion, the patient's age, activity level and general health. Both non-surgical and surgical options are available.
For mild to moderate cartilage damage, non-surgical treatments can be effective in managing symptoms and improving knee function. They may include:
- Rest and avoiding activities that stress the knee joint to reduce inflammation and facilitate recovery.
- Physiotherapy, to strengthen the muscles surrounding the knee joint, improve stability and reduce pain.
- Medication, to manage pain and reduce inflammation.
- Hyaluronic acid injections, to improve motion and reduce pain.
- Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy, to accelerate healing.
For surgery to be seriously considered, the patient's symptoms should be consistent with a full-thickness cartilage defect. When non-surgical options fail to achieve acceptable results, surgery, followed by physiotherapy, is required.
Prevention of knee cartilage lesions
Prevention of cartilage lesions in the knee involves addressing the risk factors associated with their development:
- Regular exercise to strengthen the quadriceps, hamstrings and calf muscles can help stabilize the knee joint and reduce stress on the cartilage.
- Excess body weight puts additional pressure on the knee joint, increasing the risk of cartilage damage.
- Before physical activity, warming up and stretching the muscles around the knee can reduce the risk of injury.
- Wearing shoes that provide adequate support and cushioning can reduce the impact on the knee joint during physical activities.
Knee cartilage lesions is a major cause of knee pain and dysfunction, with the potential to affect both sports performance and daily activities. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are essential to manage symptoms and prevent further damage.
To find out more about the treatment of cartilage lesions to the knee, contact us at 6943903343 (secretariat), at 6949196061 (doctor) or at at orthopedikos-papagiannopoulos.gr and make an appointment.
