liigesekõhride

Liigesekõhr, also known as articular cartilage, is a smooth, white tissue that covers the ends of bones where they meet to form joints. Its primary function is to reduce friction between the bones during movement, allowing for smooth and effortless articulation. It also acts as a shock absorber, cushioning the impact on the bones during activities like walking, running, and jumping.

Articular cartilage is composed of chondrocytes, which are cells responsible for producing and maintaining the extracellular matrix. This matrix consists mainly of collagen fibers, proteoglycans, and water. The collagen provides structural integrity, while proteoglycans attract water, giving the cartilage its remarkable ability to withstand compression.

Unlike most other tissues in the body, articular cartilage lacks blood vessels, nerves, and lymphatic vessels. This means it has a very limited capacity for self-repair. Damage to articular cartilage, whether from injury or wear and tear, can lead to conditions like osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint disease characterized by pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Treatment options for articular cartilage damage can include conservative measures like rest, physical therapy, and pain management, as well as surgical interventions such as arthroscopy, microfracture, or cartilage transplantation.