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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.
I have been told 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 partial or 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. These nutritional supplements
are typically recommended by Dr. Tauro since they have much fewer side effects than traditionally
prescribed arthritis medications. Unfortunately, they do not work for everyone. If there is no relief
after taking glucosamine and chondroitin for a month, there probably is no benefit in taking them any
longer. Diabetics and individuals taking blood thinners should not use these medications without a doctor's
approval and supervision.
References
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