Nivelrustoissa

Nivelrustoissa refers to the cartilage found in joints. It is a smooth, white tissue that covers the ends of bones where they meet to form a joint. This cushioning material allows bones to glide over each other with minimal friction, facilitating smooth movement and absorbing shock.

The primary component of joint cartilage is chondrocytes, specialized cells that produce and maintain the extracellular matrix. This matrix is rich in collagen, which provides structural integrity, and proteoglycans, which attract water and contribute to the tissue's ability to withstand compressive forces. This combination of components gives cartilage its resilience and elasticity.

Damage to nivelrustoissa can occur due to injury, overuse, or degenerative conditions like osteoarthritis. Unlike many other tissues in the body, cartilage has a limited capacity to repair itself because it lacks blood vessels and nerves. When cartilage is damaged, it can lead to pain, stiffness, and reduced joint function. Treatments for cartilage damage often focus on managing symptoms, improving joint mechanics, or in some cases, surgical interventions aimed at repairing or replacing the damaged tissue.