The Active Adult's Guide to Cartilage Integrity
Articular cartilage is an avascular, aneural connective tissue dependent upon cyclical mechanical compression to circulate synovial fluid and deliver essential nutrients. This guide reviews the cellular dynamics of chondrocytes, extracellular matrix synthesis, and how moderate, low-impact loading maintains joint lubrication throughout decades of physical activity.
- Synovial fluid diffusion mechanics during walking and cycling.
- Aggrecan, proteoglycans, and glycosaminoglycan matrix architecture.
- Balance between mechanical stress and recovery intervals.