Cartilage is an elastic and fibrous connective tissue found in many body parts such as outer ear, nose, larynx and joints. Cartilage covers the ends of the bones at a joint, thus reducing rubbing against each other. Another important function of the cartilage is that it gives shape to nose, ears and windpipe.
There are numerous diseases which can affect the cartilage. They include spinal disc herniation, traumatic detachment, osteoarthritis, costochondritis, achondroplasia and bone tumours. Traumatic rupture or detachment is one of the biggest causes of cartilage damage that occurs due to a physical trauma to a joint. In osteoarthritis, cartilage covering the bones is damaged due to growing age, physical trauma or daily wear and tear. Costochondritis is the inflammation of cartilage in the ribs.
Treatment options for cartilage damage include arthroplasty, cartilage replacement therapy and transplantation of cartilage from a healthy individual to a sufferer.
To avoid cartilage diseases, make sure that you regularly take a supplement that helps maintain the health of your joints. Seatone Green Lipped Mussel Extract Jointcare is a popular brand that contains a unique purified green lipped mussel extract. This extract contains omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamines, chondroitin sulphate, proteins and nutrients that are used by the body to build up cartilage.
This supplement helps keep joints mobile and supple. Not only does it help reduce pain, but it also has an anti-inflammatory effect on the surrounding soft tissue. Components in Green Lipped Mussel Extract combine with water in the joints to act as lubricants and shock absorbers. In elderly people, this supplement helps protect cartilage by delaying damage.
