When joint cartilage is damaged, the bones rub together, causing pain, inflammation, loss of mobility, and a range of other symptoms. At Potomac Podiatry Group, our team of expert podiatrists specializes in advanced cartilage reconstruction procedures for people in Woodbridge, Chantilly, and Sterling, VA, and White Plains, or Crofton, MD, and surrounding areas.
What is Cartilage Reconstruction?
Cartilage reconstruction encompasses surgery that aims to build new cartilage in your joint. Your procedure may involve cartilage grafts or techniques that encourage your body to build new cartilage. The technique that we recommend is based on the extent of your cartilage damage and other factors.
Techniques for Cartilage Reconstruction
Cartilage reconstruction can be achieved in two general ways. The first approach works by increasing the blood supply to the joint. This stimulates your body’s natural healing process which results in new cartilage forming in the joint. Microfracture, drilling, and abrasion are three techniques we use to increase the blood flow to the damaged joint.
The second approach involves implanting cartilage grafts. The grafts may be harvested from the same joint, another area of your body, or from donor material. Over time, the graft attaches to your bone to restore joint function.
Best Candidates for Cartilage Reconstruction
Younger patients are the best candidates for cartilage reconstruction procedures. Individuals who have multiple cartilage lesions in the joint may not be good candidates. If a cartilage reconstruction procedure is not right for you, our team of specialists will recommend alternative options for your joint pain.
Recovery from a Cartilage Reconstruction Procedure
You will need to limit the use of the affected joint for the first 14 days after the procedure and avoid strenuous activities for three months or longer. Physical therapy helps the joint heal properly and ensures that you experience the best possible outcome.
Cartilage reconstruction procedures for people in Woodbridge, Chantilly, and Sterling, VA, and White Plains, or Crofton, MD, and nearby communities help restore joint function. Learn more about the procedure by scheduling an appointment with one of our podiatrists. Potomac Podiatry Group has five convenient locations. You can reach our office in Woodbridge, VA, at (703) 583-5959. For our Chantilly, VA, location, call (703) 490-5599. Contact our Crofton, MD, location at (410) 721-4505, our Sterling, VA, location at (703) 444-9555, and our White Plains, MD, location at (301) 645-1406.