Cartilage Defects

A cartilage defect refers to an area of cartilage that is damaged.

What can cause a cartilage defect?

If your child has a cartilage defect, it may have been caused by:

• Trauma (ligament tears increase force on the cartilage)
• Osteonecrosis (bone death)
• Osteochondritis (cartilage or bone in a joint is inflamed)

What are symptoms of a cartilage defect?

If your child has a cartilage defect, he or she may experience:

• “Cracking” or “crunching” sounds
• Swelling
• A locking or catching sensation
• Pain and stiffness after sitting for a prolonged period
• Speed and agility problems

Why choose Stanford Children’s Health to care for your child’s cartilage defect?

Our sports medicine doctors are experts in diagnosing and treating cartilage defects, and we offer a wide range of treatments to meet your child’s unique needs.