How long does it take for a knee cartilage fracture to heal?

Recovery time for a knee cartilage fracture is usually 6 to 12 weeks, depending on the extent of the injury, treatment, and individual differences. Early treatment and proper rehabilitation can help speed healing.

1. The recovery time of a knee cartilage fracture is affected by many factors. Minor fractures may only take about 6 weeks to recover, while patients with severe injuries or other joint problems may need 12 weeks or even longer. Age, health status, and whether a rehabilitation plan is followed can also affect the speed of recovery. For example, young people usually recover faster than the elderly, while smoking or malnutrition may delay healing.

2. Treatment is crucial to recovery time. Drug treatment includes nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen, which are used to relieve pain and inflammation; glucosamine sulfate and chondroitin may help cartilage repair. Physical therapy such as ultrasound, electrical stimulation, and hot and cold compresses can promote blood circulation and tissue repair. Surgical treatment is suitable for severe bone fractures, and common methods include arthroscopic surgery, cartilage transplantation, and microfracture technology.

3. Rehabilitation training is the key to recovery. Performing low-intensity activities such as straight leg raises and ankle pumps in the early stage can prevent muscle atrophy and joint stiffness. In the middle stage, low-impact exercises such as cycling and swimming can be added to enhance joint stability. In the later stage, high-intensity activities such as running and jumping can be gradually resumed, but excessive load should be avoided. In terms of diet, increasing foods rich in protein, vitamin C and calcium such as eggs, oranges and milk can help tissue repair and bone health.

Recovery from a knee cartilage fracture requires patience and scientific management. Following a combination of medication, physical therapy, and rehabilitation training can effectively shorten recovery time and reduce the risk of recurrence. Regularly review and adjust the rehabilitation plan to ensure full recovery of joint function.