The internet is full of "miracle cures" claiming to regrow cartilage and reverse arthritis.

But what is the medical truth? Can knee arthritis actually be reversed?

The honest answer is: No, not yet. Once cartilage is gone, it does not grow back on its own.

However, the symptoms can be reversed, and the progression can be slowed down significantly.

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Why Can't Cartilage Regrow?

Cartilage is a unique tissue because it has no blood supply. Without blood, it lacks the nutrients and cells needed to repair itself like skin or bone does.

Once it wears away (bone-on-bone), that structural loss is permanent.

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What CAN You Do? (The "Reversal" of Symptoms)

While you can't regrow the structure, you can often "reverse" the pain and disability.

1. Weight Loss

This is the closest thing to a cure.

• Losing just 10% of body weight can reduce knee pain by 50%.
• It stops the mechanical overload that drives the disease.

2. PRP and Stem Cell Therapy

• Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP): Injections of your own growth factors can reduce inflammation and stimulate the remaining cartilage environment.
• While it doesn't grow a new knee, it can improve the health of the existing tissues.

3. Physiotherapy

• Strong muscles (quads/hamstrings) act as shock absorbers.
• By strengthening the support system, you reduce the load on the damaged joint, effectively reducing pain.

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Myths to Ignore

• Myth: "Taking collagen supplements will rebuild my knee."
  • Fact: While supplements may support joint health, there is no evidence they can rebuild lost cartilage.
• Myth: "If I run, I'll ruin my knees."
  • Fact: Moderate running is actually safe for healthy knees. For arthritic knees, low impact is better, but inactivity is the real enemy.

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Takeaway

Don't be fooled by "cartilage regrowth" scams.

Focus on what works: Weight management, muscle strengthening, and medical treatments to manage symptoms.

If arthritis is affecting your life, let's discuss a realistic management plan. 👉 Consult Dr. Abhijit Kale.