Dr. Beth Shubin Stein

Knee cartilage doesn't heal the way skin or bone does. Once the smooth, glassy tissue that cushions the ends of your bones wears down or tears, the body has very little natural ability to grow it back on its own. That's why a cartilage injury that might seem minor at first — some clicking, occasional swelling, a dull ache after a run — can quietly progress into a much bigger problem if it's left unaddressed. The good news is that orthopedic medicine has made real progress in this area. Patients diagnosed with a cartilage defect in 2026 have more options, better imaging, and more predictable outcomes than they did even a decade ago. This guide walks through what cartilage restoration actually means, who typically needs it, and how the major treatment categories differ — so you can have a more informed conversation with your own surgeon. What Is Cartilage Restoration, Exactly? "Cartilage restoration" is an umbrella term for a group of procedures designed to repair ...

  Patellar instability is a condition that can make everyday activities—and especially sports—painful and unpredictable. If you've experienced repeated kneecap dislocations or a feeling that your knee may "give out," your orthopedic surgeon may recommend surgery to restore stability. Among the available treatment options, MPFL reconstruction is one of the most commonly performed procedures for recurrent patella instability. However, depending on your knee anatomy and the severity of your condition, other patella stabilization procedures may also be recommended. This guide explains the differences between MPFL reconstruction and other surgical techniques, helping you understand which treatment may be right for you. Understanding Patella Instability The patella (kneecap) normally glides smoothly within a groove at the end of the femur called the trochlea. When this alignment is disrupted, the kneecap can partially or completely dislocate. Common causes of patella instabil...

  Knee cartilage damage is a common problem affecting athletes, active adults, and even younger patients who want to stay active without long-term joint pain. Because cartilage does not heal easily on its own, untreated damage can gradually worsen and increase the risk of arthritis over time. Fortunately, advances in modern orthopedic care now offer several knee preservation and cartilage restoration options designed to help patients reduce pain, improve mobility, and potentially delay or avoid knee replacement surgery. Understanding the early warning signs of cartilage damage can help patients seek treatment before the condition progresses further. What Is Knee Cartilage Damage? Cartilage is the smooth protective tissue that covers the ends of bones inside the knee joint. Healthy cartilage allows the knee to move smoothly during walking, running, jumping, and athletic activity. When cartilage becomes damaged, the joint surfaces can become rough and painful, leading to inflammat...