Loose cartilage, often referred to as "loose bodies," is most commonly found within joint spaces, with the knee joint being a frequent location. These fragments detach from the articular cartilage, the smooth surface that covers the ends of bones within a joint.
Here's a breakdown of where loose cartilage can be found and why:
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Knee Joint: This is the most common site due to the high stress and impact it endures. Injuries and degenerative conditions (like osteoarthritis) can cause cartilage to break off.
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Other Joints: While less frequent than the knee, loose bodies can also occur in other joints, including the:
- Elbow
- Shoulder
- Ankle
- Hip
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Within the Joint Capsule: Once detached, loose cartilage fragments float freely within the synovial fluid inside the joint capsule. This allows them to move around and potentially cause intermittent symptoms.
The presence of loose cartilage within a joint can lead to pain, locking, catching sensations, and swelling, depending on where the fragment migrates and if it becomes trapped between joint surfaces.
