Cartilage: Cushion protection

Cartilage holds our bones together and supports our tissues.
It is tough, but at the same time flexible, which makes damaging this tissue
pretty easy. This tissue has a rubbery texture as it serves to cushion the area
between the bones and joints. This cushioning helps reduce friction. When we
walk, run, or jump, cartilage is there to absorbs the impact. For a visual aid,
think of the outer part of your earlobe which is made up entirely of cartilage.
Interestingly, cartilage does not require a blood supply. This means that when
damaged, it takes a longer time to heal. When cartilage is damaged, this can be
painful …read more