What are the Clinical Implications of Hyaline Cartilage Damage?
Damage to hyaline cartilage can lead to significant clinical issues, such as osteoarthritis. In osteoarthritis, the articular cartilage deteriorates, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility in the affected joints. Since hyaline cartilage has limited capacity for self-repair due to its avascular nature, injuries can lead to long-term problems. Treatments for cartilage damage often involve physical therapy, medications, or surgical interventions such as cartilage grafting or joint replacement.