Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease characterised by the breakdown of cartilage, the protective tissue at the ends of bones. This condition typically occurs as people age and can affect any joint, bur most commonly impacts the knees, hips, hands and spine. I like to think of it as wrinkles on the inside.
Symptoms of Osteoarthritis include joint pain stiffness swelling and reduced range of motion.
Here is the good news, Cartilage needs to move to Improve.
Cartilage is made of specialised cells called chondrocytes which are responsible for creating and maintaining th e cartilaginous matrix. The matrix consists mainly of water, collagen fibres and proteoglycans which give the tissue it’s strength and resilience. The high water content in cartilage allows it to act like a sponge absorbing shock and distributing loads across the joint surfaces.
One of the remarkable features of cartilage is its bioplastic nature. This means that unlike artificial materials, cartilage can adapt and respond to the body’s needs. While artificial knee joints are made from metals and plastics that can wear out and require replacement, cartilage has the potential to last much longer. It can repair itself to some extent making it more durable over time.
Cartilage doesn’t have a robust blood supply like other tissues. Instead of receiving nutrients directly from blood vessels, it relies on a process called diffusion. The lubricant produced by the joint capsule (synovial fluid) is crucial for this process. When you move your joints – like when you walk – the synovial fluid is secreted. It seeps into the cartilage, delivering essential nutrients and helping remove waste products. This means that regular movement and getting the knees moving through their range is vital for he health of the cartilage. Cartilage needs to move to improve!
You may not know that 50% of people with OA findings do not have any pain at all.
