Cartilage is one of the primary connective tissues that comprise the human body. It is composed mainly of water (65%). The remainder is a highly organized meshwork of substances collectively called a “matrix,” which are produced by “chondrocytes” (cartilage cells). There are different types of cartilage: Hyaline, Fibrous, and Elastic. The different types of cartilage have various properties that correspond to their roles within the body. As a result, there are a wide range of cartilage issues that one can experience due to normal wear as well as trauma.
Hyaline cartilage is the cartilage that lines the bony surfaces of our joints and provides a low-friction, smooth surface, allowing the bones to glide across each other during movement. Hyaline cartilage covers structures such as the ends of your bones at your knee and shoulder. Here, the cartilage helps to reduce forces and friction. This is the cartilage most often damaged due to sports and physical labor.