Cartilage Injury Treatment in NYC

Cartilage is a crucial connective tissue found throughout the body, providing structural support and facilitating smooth joint movement. Cartilage acts as the cushion between bones to keep them in place and from rubbing against one another. Specifically, knee cartilage, known as articular cartilage, is vital for the proper functioning of the knee joint. Unfortunately, cartilage injuries, or cartilage lesions, can occur due to various factors such as trauma, wear and tear, or degenerative conditions like arthritis. In such cases, seeking the expertise of the best orthopedic surgeons becomes essential for effective cartilage repair and recovery. 

When it comes to repairing damaged knee cartilage there are plenty of surgical and nonsurgical treatment options available for patients. Our cartilage injury specialist serving Manhattan will provide a physical examination to evaluate the severity of your injury and determine the next best steps for your recovery.

Types of Cartilage and Their Importance

Cartilage comes in different types, with articular cartilage being particularly vital in the context of knee joint health. Articular cartilage covers the ends of bones that form a joint, acting as a cushion between them. This specialized tissue allows for smooth, frictionless movement, acting as a shock absorber during weight-bearing activities.

Cartilage Injuries and their Consequences

Cartilage injuries, especially those affecting the knee, can significantly impact an individual’s mobility and overall quality of life. Common causes include sports-related injuries, trauma, and the natural progression of wear and tear over time. When cartilage is damaged, it may lead to pain, swelling, and a reduction in the range of motion.

Orthopedic Approach to Cartilage Injuries

Dines Orthopedics specializing in sports medicine and cartilage restoration plays a crucial role in diagnosing and treating cartilage injuries. Our experts offer a range of treatment options, including both surgical and nonsurgical approaches, tailored to the severity and nature of the cartilage damage.

Nonsurgical Treatment Options

For less severe cases, orthopedic surgeons often recommend nonsurgical more conservative treatments. This may include physical therapy to improve joint strength and flexibility, anti-inflammatory medications to manage pain and swelling, and injections to stimulate the growth of new cartilage. Dines Orthopedics provides a variety of nonsurgical treatment options for patients who don’t require surgery.

• Physical Therapy: Designed to improve strength and flexibility around the knee joint, enhancing stability and reducing strain on damaged cartilage.
• Anti-inflammatory Medications: Help manage pain and swelling associated with cartilage injuries.
• Injections: Various injections, such as corticosteroids or hyaluronic acid, may be administered to reduce inflammation and promote joint lubrication.
• Activity Modification: Advising lifestyle adjustments to minimize stress on the knee and allow for natural healing.

Surgical Treatment Options

In more severe cases where nonsurgical options for patients in Manhattan are insufficient, surgical interventions become necessary. Orthopedic surgeons employ advanced techniques such as arthroscopically-assisted procedures to address cartilage damage. One common method is microfracture, a surgical procedure that involves creating small fractures in the underlying bone to stimulate the growth of new cartilage. Cartilage injuries can also be treated arthroscopically, which is a minimally invasive procedure. 

• Arthroscopic Procedures: Minimally invasive surgeries done through small incisions, allowing orthopedic surgeons to visualize and address cartilage issues directly.
• Microfracture: Involves creating tiny fractures in the bone, promoting the growth of new cartilage to replace damaged tissue.
• Cartilage Repair and Transplantation: Surgical techniques that involve removing damaged cartilage and either stimulating the growth of new cartilage or transplanting healthy cartilage from another area or a donor.

Cartilage Repair and Transplantation

In cases where the damaged area is extensive, orthopedic doctors may recommend cartilage repair and transplantation. During these procedures, the surgeon may remove the damaged cartilage and create small channels in the underlying bone to stimulate the growth of new cartilage. Additionally, healthy cartilage may be harvested from another area of the joint or from a donor to replace the damaged tissue.

The Role of Orthopedic Doctors

Dines Orthopedics has extensive experience in treating cartilage injuries and is invaluable in providing accurate diagnoses and personalized treatment plans. Specialists in the field, such as those at the Hospital for Special Surgery on the Upper East Side, offer the latest advancements in both surgical and nonsurgical techniques.

Cartilage Injury Treatment in NYC

Knee cartilage injuries can occur due to various factors, affecting the articular cartilage in the knee joint. Seeking the expertise of Dines Orthopedics, with a focus on cartilage restoration and sports medicine, is crucial for effective treatment. Whether through nonsurgical approaches like physical therapy and injections or surgical interventions such as microfracture and cartilage transplantation, orthopedic solutions aim to restore function, alleviate pain, and improve the overall quality of life for individuals with cartilage injuries. If you or someone you know is experiencing knee pain or cartilage damage, don’t hesitate to contact an orthopedic specialist to explore the best treatment options available. Please contact the office today to schedule a consultation.