Knee Cartilage Care — Preservation, Repair & Restoration
A joint-preserving approach to knee cartilage problems, from therapy and orthobiologics to arthroscopic repair or cartilage restoration when needed.
What it involves
Treatment depends on the size and location of the cartilage injury, the condition of the rest of the knee, alignment, activity goals and prior care. Options may include physician-directed therapy, load modification and orthobiologics such as PRP or BMAC. When a focal defect needs structural treatment, arthroscopic repair or cartilage restoration may be considered.
Who it helps
- +Focal cartilage injuries after sports or trauma
- +Persistent swelling or pain with loading
- +Early cartilage wear in an active knee
- +Patients comparing non-operative care, orthobiologics and surgery
Recovery
Non-operative recovery is built around progressive loading over several weeks. Recovery after repair or restoration depends on the procedure and often includes protected weight bearing followed by staged rehabilitation.
In the office
We review your examination and imaging together, then weigh non-operative care, orthobiologics and surgical repair or restoration in the context of your knee and your goals.
Not sure this is your path?
Two quick questions will point you to a sensible starting point.
Other treatments
PRP
A concentrate made from your own blood, injected into an irritated tendon, ligament or joint to support the body's own healing response.
Non-surgicalMicrofat
A small amount of your own fat tissue, gently processed and placed into a painful joint to cushion and calm irritated surfaces.
Non-surgicalBMAC
Cells drawn from your own bone marrow, concentrated and delivered to a damaged joint or tendon to support repair.
Non-surgicalShockwave
Non-invasive acoustic energy directed at a painful tendon or bone to stimulate blood flow and reduce chronic pain.
Non-surgicalConservative care
The first line of treatment for most joint and tendon problems: activity modification, anti-inflammatories or acetaminophen, ice, bracing or a cane when helpful, and physician-directed physical therapy.
SurgicalArthroscopy
Small-incision joint surgery using a camera and precise instruments — for repair work that biologics and therapy cannot reach.
SurgicalShoulder reconstruction
Rebuilding a shoulder that has lost its stability or its cuff — from anchor-suture repair to complex revision and instability surgery.
Non-surgical & surgicalShoulder arthritis
A worn shoulder joint doesn't have to mean giving up what you love. Care ranges from therapy and biologic injections to total shoulder replacement when the joint is truly worn out.
Non-surgicalSports medicine & longevity
Care for active adults who want to stay in the game, protect their joints and perform at their best — from injury prevention to recovery and long-term resilience.
General information only — not medical advice. Your plan is confirmed in person after an exam and imaging review.