PHYSICAL WELLNESS

the body’s cushion + flex

CARTILAGE

Cartilage is like the shock-absorbing padding in your body. It’s a flexible, rubbery tissue that covers the ends of bones, cushions joints, and supports structures like the nose, ears, and trachea. Cartilage allows smooth movement and prevents bones from grinding against each other.

  • Cushions joints to reduce friction and absorb impact

  • Provides flexible support to structures like ears, nose, and airways

  • Maintains the shape of soft body parts

  • Helps bones grow and develop in children and adolescents

  • Reduces wear and tear on bones over time

CARTILAGE BASICS

Common Terms + Simple Definitions

Here’s a mini glossary for cartilage related words you’ll see throughout the site:

Cartilage - Flexible connective tissue that cushions and supports bones and joints

Hyaline Cartilage - Smooth cartilage covering bone ends in joints

Fibrocartilage - Tough cartilage found in intervertebral discs and knee menisci

Elastic Cartilage - Flexible cartilage in the ears and epiglottis

Meniscus - A type of fibrocartilage in the knee that absorbs shock

WHAT CARTILAGE WORKS WITH

CARTILAGE + OTHER SYSTEMS

  1. Bones → Covers bone ends to protect them and improve joint function

  2. Joints → Acts as a cushion and smooth surface for movement

  3. Ligaments & Tendons → Support cartilage and joint integrity

  4. Muscles → Work with cartilage-covered bones to create smooth motion

  5. Synovial Fluid → Works together to lubricate joints and reduce friction

HealthY CARTILAGE…

Cartilage keeps your joints healthy and your movements smooth. Without it, bones would grind together, causing pain and damage. It’s the body’s built-in cushion, providing both flexibility and protection for everyday movement.