Healthy cartilage allows the knee joint to move smoothly by cushioning the bones and reducing friction during walking, running, climbing stairs, and other daily activities. When cartilage becomes damaged through injury, overuse, or degeneration, it can lead to pain, swelling, stiffness, and difficulty with movement. Early evaluation can help determine the extent of the damage and the most appropriate treatment.
Dr. Brian Cohen is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon who evaluates and treats knee cartilage issues in Columbus, OH. After a comprehensive examination and appropriate imaging, he develops an individualized treatment plan based on the location of the cartilage damage, the severity of the condition, and each patient’s activity level and goals.
Types of Knee Cartilage Issues
Cartilage damage can occur in different parts of the knee and may affect joint function in different ways. Dr. Cohen treats a variety of cartilage-related conditions, including the following.
Runner’s Knee
Runner’s knee, also known as patellofemoral pain syndrome, is a common condition that causes pain around or behind the kneecap. It often develops from repetitive stress, muscle imbalances, overuse, or improper tracking of the kneecap as it moves within the femoral groove.
Symptoms may include pain while running, climbing stairs, squatting, kneeling, or sitting for extended periods. Treatment typically begins with activity modification, physical therapy, strengthening exercises, and other conservative measures, although additional treatment may be recommended if symptoms persist.
Distal Femur Cartilage Damage
The distal femur forms the upper portion of the knee joint and is covered with smooth articular cartilage that allows the joint to move without friction. Injury or degeneration of this cartilage can lead to pain, swelling, mechanical symptoms, and progressive joint deterioration if left untreated.
Treatment depends on the size, depth, and location of the cartilage injury and may include nonsurgical care or cartilage restoration procedures for appropriate candidates.
Proximal Tibia Cartilage Damage
The top of the tibia, known as the proximal tibia, also contains articular cartilage that helps distribute weight across the knee joint. Damage to this cartilage may occur following injury, repetitive stress, or degenerative changes and can contribute to pain, stiffness, and reduced function.
Depending on the extent of the cartilage loss, treatment may include conservative therapies, cartilage restoration techniques, or other procedures designed to preserve joint function and relieve symptoms.
Why Choose Dr. Brian Cohen?
Dr. Brian Cohen is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with more than 20 years of experience treating cartilage injuries, sports-related knee conditions, arthritis, and other complex knee disorders. He completed medical school and orthopedic surgery residency training at Mount Sinai in New York City, followed by sports medicine fellowship training at Rush Medical School in Chicago.
Throughout his career, Dr. Cohen has performed more than 30,000 orthopedic surgical procedures and completed over 100,000 patient evaluations. His experience includes arthroscopic knee procedures, cartilage restoration techniques, and joint preservation strategies designed to relieve pain and improve long-term knee function.
Dr. Cohen’s patient-first philosophy emphasizes accurate diagnosis, individualized treatment planning, and clear communication to help patients achieve the best possible outcome.
Knee Cartilage Treatment in Columbus, OH
Cartilage damage can interfere with everyday activities and may worsen over time if left untreated. Dr. Cohen provides comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment for a wide range of knee cartilage conditions to help reduce pain, improve mobility, and preserve joint health.
To schedule a consultation with Dr. Brian Cohen, call (614) 788-0375.
