Usually happens gradually over time and can be due to uneven distribution of weight passing through the joint (similar to the effects of faulty wheel tracking)
Localised areas of damage could be caused by a twisting injury or fall.
Joint Surface Damage
How it happens
Operations
Chondroplasty
Procedures carried out on areas with minor damaged are aimed at removing debris and smoothing surfaces to remove irregularities
Your return to normal activity will be governed by discomfort and swelling. These are not usually severe and, if you were quite fit before surgery, you could be back to normal in a few weeks.
Abrasion Arthroplasty/ Micro fracture
In more severe cases, advanced modern techniques aim to produce an element of healing. At operation the damaged cartilage surrounding the lesion will be cleared thus leaving a ‘crater’. The bottom of the crater is either abraided or drilled to produce bleeding of the underlying bone – this bleeding will form the basis for the development of new fibrocartilage and should produce a more even joint surface.
Your return to light activity will take about 2 weeks but the full healing process does take a long time and it could be 9-12 weeks before all activities become completely comfortable. The physiotherapist will guide you and recommend exercises and activities which will promote rather than inhibit healing.
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