Cartilage Damage: What You Need to Know Before It Gets Worse

By Dr. Daniel Romanelli, Orthopedic Surgeon – Rio Grande Valley

Your joints rely on smooth, healthy cartilage to function without pain. But once cartilage is damaged—whether from a sports injury, a fall, or overuse—it doesn’t heal the way other tissues do. That’s why early detection and treatment are crucial.

If you're dealing with persistent joint pain, swelling, or stiffness—especially in your knee—cartilage damage could be the underlying cause. And the sooner it's addressed, the better your long-term outcome.

What Is Cartilage and Why Does It Matter?

Cartilage is the smooth, rubbery tissue that cushions the ends of bones where they meet in a joint. It allows for smooth movement and helps absorb shock during walking, running, or other physical activities.

Unlike muscles or skin, cartilage has a very limited blood supply. That means once it’s injured, it doesn’t regenerate easily—and untreated damage can get worse over time, leading to chronic pain or even arthritis.

Common Causes of Cartilage Damage

• Sports injuries (especially in athletes under 40)

• Sudden impact or trauma (falls, accidents)

• Repetitive stress (running, squatting, kneeling)

• Joint instability (after ligament injuries like an ACL tear)

• Wear and tear from aging or arthritis

Signs You May Have Cartilage Damage

• Joint pain that worsens with activity

• Swelling or stiffness that doesn’t fully resolve

• A “catching” or “locking” feeling in the joint

• Decreased range of motion

• Pain that comes and goes but never fully heals

Many people live with cartilage injuries for months or even years without realizing the damage is progressing. The earlier you seek treatment, the more options you’ll have.

Treatment Options: Modern Solutions for Cartilage Repair

If you’ve been told to “just rest it” but the pain keeps coming back, it’s time to consider more advanced options. At our orthopedic practice, we offer several state-of-the-art treatments based on your age, activity level, and severity of damage:

1. Arthroscopy

Minimally invasive surgery that allows us to view the joint, clean out damaged tissue, and assess cartilage health. It’s often the first step in diagnosing or treating cartilage injuries.

2. Microfracture

A surgical technique that stimulates new cartilage growth by creating tiny holes in the bone beneath the damaged cartilage. Best suited for small defects in younger patients.

3. MACI (Matrix-Induced Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation)

An advanced, two-stage procedure that uses your own cartilage cells to grow new tissue and restore the damaged area. Ideal for active patients with larger defects who want to avoid a full knee replacement.

Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late

Once cartilage damage reaches a certain point, treatment becomes more complex—and your chances of needing a joint replacement go up. That’s why early intervention matters.

If you're experiencing joint pain, especially in your knee, don’t ignore it. Get answers. Get options. And take control of your joint health before the damage progresses.

Ready to Learn More? Dr. Daniel Romanelli specializes in diagnosing and treating cartilage injuries with precision and care. Schedule your consultation today and explore a treatment plan built just for you.