What are the most important things a person can do to limit
chondral or cartilage damage in the knee?
While there is not one specific thing that can prevent cartilage damage
in the knee, there are a few measures that can be taken to delay the
process.
Since excess weight can cause damaged
cartilage to wear down more quickly, losing extra pounds may be
helpful.
A person with cartilage damage should
avoid high impact activities, such as prolonged running or jumping
sports. These are very hard on the knee and can speed the progression
of cartilage damage.
Even those with significant joint
damage will benefit from mild to moderate activities, such as
walking, bicycling, or running in water.
My doctor has told me that I have arthritis
and will need an artificial knee in the next few years. Would I be
a candidate for growing my own cartilage so I won't need an artificial
knee?
The newer techniques involving cartilage growth will not work if a
patient is very bowlegged, knock-kneed, or has bone rubbing on bone.
The newly grown cartilage would be quickly rubbed away by the worn
surfaces. At some point in the progression of arthritis, only a total
knee replacement can offer pain relief.
Will glucosamine and chondroitin make new cartilage?
Most studies of the effects
of glucosamine and chondroitin have been done in animals, and most
of the reported effects are based on hearsay rather than scientific
evidence. Human studies are currently underway and reported results
do show some promise that these substances can relieve the inflammation
caused by arthritis in 60-70% of patients. It is doubtful, however,
that they can cause new cartilage to grow. Diabetics and individuals
taking blood thinners should not use these medications without a doctor's
approval.
