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Hip cartilage injuries

What are hip cartilage injuries?

Cartilage is the tough, flexible tissue that covers the surface of the joints, including the hip. It cushions the joints, acting as a shock absorber, and helps the bones to slide smoothly over one another for ease of movement. Injuries to the cartilage are common and can be the result of gradual wear and tear, as in the case of osteoarthritis, or sudden trauma, such as with a sporting injury.

Hip cartilage injuries sometimes get better by themselves, however more severe damage may require surgery. Because cartilage has no blood supply of its own, cartilage injuries can take much longer to heal than other types of tissue injury.

What causes hip cartilage injuries?

There are several possible causes of cartilage injury in the hip:

  • Gradual wear and tear can cause damage to the cartilage, particularly in people who are obese or who have osteoarthritis
  • Trauma caused by a heavy blow, such as a car accident or bad fall, or a collision during certain types of sport can result in cartilage damage
  • Immobility increases the risk of damage to hip cartilage.

Hip cartilage injuries

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