What are the functions of articular cartilage?

The joints of the human body are composed of a complex and sophisticated structure, which enables the human body to move freely and coordinately. The most important tissue among them is cartilage, which is a bone tissue with low density but good lubrication properties. It plays a key role in the mobility of the joints. Let's take a look at the functions of articular cartilage.

The surface of articular cartilage is smooth, which can reduce friction between adjacent bones and cushion the vibration generated during movement. Articular cartilage plays an important role in joint movement, and its structure is very delicate and scientific to adapt to different functional needs. Understanding the structure of articular cartilage is important for understanding some problems in bone and joint pain.

Articular cartilage is a transparent cartilage with a smooth, light blue and shiny surface. It is composed of a basic framework of a special collagen fiber called dense connective tissue. This framework is semi-circular, similar to an arched goal, with its bottom end tightly attached to the bone below and the upper end facing the joint surface. This structure allows the articular cartilage to be tightly combined with the bone and will not fall off. At the same time, when under pressure, it can also deform slightly, which plays a role in buffering pressure.

Functions of articular cartilage:

① Withstanding mechanical loads, social activities throughout a person's life are inseparable from the normal function of articular cartilage. Articular cartilage can evenly distribute force and expand the load-bearing surface. In this way, not only can the mechanical load be borne to the maximum extent, but the articular cartilage can also be protected from damage.

② Lubricating effect: Articular cartilage is very smooth and is not easily worn during joint movement. It is also flexible and free to move. Articular cartilage can sustain human life activities without damage because of its good lubrication function. When there is a lesion in the synovial membrane of the joint, such as rheumatoid arthritis, the synovial fluid secretion is abnormal and loses its normal lubricating function, affecting the joint function and the nutrition of the articular cartilage.

People should move their joints before working to fully lubricate them, which can increase joint flexibility and prevent damage to articular cartilage.

③ Absorption of force People engage in many strenuous activities throughout their lives without damaging their joints. One of the reasons is the powerful absorption function of articular cartilage.

Articular cartilage is not only smooth but also elastic, and can absorb and buffer stress to the maximum extent. After articular cartilage is damaged, the force absorption function is reduced, and joint damage and degeneration will progressively worsen.