The proximal tibia is the upper end of the shin bone that forms the lower portion of the knee joint. Its surface is covered with smooth articular cartilage, which helps the knee move freely and distributes pressure across the joint during walking, climbing stairs, and other weight-bearing activities.
Damage to this cartilage can cause pain, swelling, catching, or difficulty using the knee. Because the tissue has a limited ability to heal, the size and location of the injury—as well as the condition of the surrounding joint—play an important role in treatment planning.
Board-certified orthopedic surgeon Dr. Brian Cohen evaluates proximal tibia cartilage injuries and recommends care based on each patient’s symptoms, knee health, and activity goals. Treatment may range from conservative measures to cartilage restoration or joint replacement when appropriate.
Proximal Tibia Cartilage Injuries
A proximal tibia cartilage injury occurs when the articular cartilage covering the upper surface of the shin bone becomes damaged. The injury may range from mild softening or a small surface defect to full-thickness cartilage loss that exposes the underlying bone.
Articular cartilage has a limited ability to heal because it does not have a direct blood supply. Without appropriate treatment, some injuries may continue to cause pain or place additional stress on the surrounding joint surfaces.
Knee Cartilage Damage Grading Scale
Cartilage injuries are commonly graded according to the depth and severity of the damage. The grade may be estimated using imaging studies and confirmed during arthroscopy.
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Grade 0: Normal cartilage
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Grade 1: Cartilage softening, blistering, or swelling
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Grade 2: Small surface defects or partial-thickness tears
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Grade 3: Deep fissures extending toward the underlying bone
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Grade 4: Full-thickness cartilage loss with exposed bone
Causes of Articular Cartilage Damage
Damage to the articular cartilage of the proximal tibia may result from:
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A previous knee injury
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Twisting or pivoting injuries
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A direct blow to the knee
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Meniscus or ligament injuries
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Abnormal knee alignment
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Osteoarthritis
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Inflammatory arthritis
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Repetitive wear over time
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Excess body weight, which increases stress on the knee joint
Proximal Tibia Cartilage Injury Diagnosis
Diagnosis begins with a review of the patient’s symptoms, activity history, and any previous knee injuries. Dr. Cohen or one of his sports medicine colleagues will examine the knee for tenderness, swelling, stability, range of motion, strength, and signs of associated meniscus or ligament damage.
X-rays may be ordered to evaluate knee alignment, arthritis, or other possible causes of pain. An MRI can provide additional information about the articular cartilage and surrounding soft tissues. In some cases, the full extent of a cartilage injury is confirmed during arthroscopic surgery.
Cartilage Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the size and location of the cartilage injury, the patient’s symptoms and activity level, knee alignment, and the overall condition of the joint.
Nonsurgical treatment may include:
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Activity modification
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Physical therapy
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Strengthening exercises
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Weight management when appropriate
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Anti-inflammatory or pain-relieving medication
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Injections when appropriate
For persistent or more significant cartilage injuries, Dr. Cohen may recommend a procedure intended to stimulate cartilage repair, restore the damaged surface, or transplant cartilage tissue. If cartilage loss is extensive and associated with advanced arthritis, partial or total knee replacement may be considered.
Arthroscopic Knee Surgery
Dr. Cohen may use arthroscopic surgery to evaluate and treat damaged cartilage through small incisions. A miniature camera allows him to view the inside of the knee, while specialized instruments are used to perform the selected procedure.
Depending on the condition of the cartilage, arthroscopy may be used to remove unstable tissue, stimulate cartilage repair, perform a cartilage restoration procedure, or address associated meniscus or ligament injuries.
Why Choose Dr. Cohen?
OVER 25+ YEARS OF EXPERIENCE
One of the first orthopedic surgeons employed by a large hospital. Dr. Cohen spent 20 years.
TRUSTED BY OVER 100,000+ PATIENTS WORLDWIDE
Over his distinguished career, Dr. Cohen has cultivated a reputation of excellence and trust among his patients and his peers.
UTILIZING THE LATEST TECHNOLOGY
To achieve the best surgical outcomes, Dr. Cohen uses the most advanced technologies and techniques, keeping his practice state-of-the-art.
PATIENT SAFETY IS TOP PRIORITY
An individualized, patient-focused process coupled with decades of training and experience helps ensure maximum safety for all of Dr. Cohen’s patients.
Proximal Tibia Cartilage Injury Care in Columbus, OH
Damage to the cartilage of the proximal tibia can cause persistent pain, swelling, catching, and difficulty with weight-bearing activities. Dr. Cohen evaluates the extent of the injury and the overall health of the knee before recommending conservative care, cartilage restoration, or joint replacement when appropriate. The goal is to relieve symptoms, restore function, and preserve the joint whenever possible. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Brian Cohen, call (614) 788-0375.
