Chondral injury

Chondral injury refers to damage to the cartilage that covers the ends of bones in a joint, known as chondral lesions. This type of injury can occur in any joint, but is most common in the knee, ankle, and elbow.

Causes:

1. Trauma or direct blow to the joint

2. Sports injuries (e.g., soccer, football, basketball)

3. Falls or accidents

4. Repetitive stress or overuse

5. Degenerative joint disease (e.g., osteoarthritis)

Symptoms:

1. Pain or tenderness in the affected joint

2. Swelling or inflammation

3. Limited mobility or stiffness

4. Catching or locking sensation

5. Grinding or clicking sound

Treatment:

1. Rest, ice, and compression (RICE) to reduce pain and inflammation

2. Physical therapy to improve mobility and strength

3. Pain management with medication

4. Arthroscopy or surgery to repair or remove damaged cartilage

5. Cartilage repair or regeneration techniques (e.g., microfracture, autologous chondrocyte implantation)

Complications:

1. Osteoarthritis or degenerative joint disease

2. Chronic pain or stiffness

3. Limited mobility or function

4. Increased risk of future injuries

Recovery:

1. 6-12 weeks for mild injuries

2. 3-6 months for moderate injuries

3. 6-12 months for severe injuries or surgical