Cartilage of Knee: Anatomy, Function and Recent Conservative Treatments

Abstract

Damage to the knee's cartilage, notably the menisci, is thought to be a substantial contributor to musculoskeletal morbidity. The unique anatomical, biomechanical, and functional properties of knee cartilage make it vulnerable to injury and destruction. Knee cartilage is essential for both everyday use and long-term health. Due to its importance and its injury susceptibility, treatment toward this injury also is important. Considering the contraindications of surgery and the requirements of anesthesia, and the characteristics of the disease in the age distribution, surgery might unsuitable for some people then conservative treatment is worth consider. The purpose of this review is to summarize and analyze recent conservative treatment toward the injury of cartilage in knee and some of the current developments in order to search for the future target. By analyzing several conservative treatments, including pharmacotherapy, physical therapy, Kinesio tape and tissue engineering, it can be clear that conservative treatments have significant effect on symptoms and part of its function but can hardly rebuild its structure and all physiological functions.