Wear and Tear Knee Problems

What are wear and tear problems of the knee?

It's rough, worn surface cartilage in your knee joint, often with bone spurs (excess bone growth).

Recovery from a wear and tear problem depends on how much surface cartilage damage you have and the extent of surgery you need. With a mild problem, your recovery may take 6 to 10 weeks. With a severe problem, your recovery may take 3 to 5 months.

Arthroscopy findings

With mild wear and tear, your surgeon may find worn or cracked surface cartilage. With severe wear and tear, the surface cartilage may be completely worn through to expose the bones of your knee. Loose bodies of cartilage, bone spurs (excess bone growth), and meniscus damage are also common.

Cartilage surgery

For a mild wear and tear problem, your surgeon may shave and smooth the rough cartilage. For a more severe wear and tear problem with areas of exposed bone, your surgeon uses a special burr to abrade the underlying bone to stimulate new cartilage growth. Your surgeon may also remove any loose bodies and bone spurs, and trim any damaged meniscus.

Your recovery

You may have an ace bandage and crutches for a few days to several weeks. After abrasion, you may need crutches for up to 2 months. Exercises are needed to strengthen the muscles that support your knee and take stress off the joint itself. Your surgeon may recommend using ice on your knee after exercise to limit swelling. your surgeon may also recommend that you modify some activities to reduce stress on your knees, such as using a low stool when gardening and a cart when playing golf.

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