Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Cartilage, particularly in the form of supplements such as bovine or shark cartilage, has been explored as a treatment for cartilage damage due to its theoretical role in supporting joint health and cartilage repair. The rationale stems from the composition of these supplements, which includes collagen, glycosaminoglycans, and other structural proteins found in native cartilage. Scientific studies have investigated the efficacy of oral cartilage supplements, with some clinical trials reporting modest improvements in pain and function in patients with osteoarthritis and other cartilage-related conditions. However, the overall evidence is mixed, and systematic reviews and meta-analyses generally conclude that the benefit is small and not consistently superior to placebo. More robust support exists for procedures like autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI), where a patient’s own cartilage cells are cultured and implanted to repair cartilage defects. This approach is grounded in scientific principles and has demonstrated efficacy in selected patients. Additionally, research into tissue engineering and biomaterial scaffolds to support cartilage regeneration is ongoing and shows promise. In summary, while there is a scientific rationale and some supporting evidence for the use of cartilage (or cartilage-derived products) in treating cartilage damage, the quality and consistency of evidence for oral supplements is limited. Advanced medical procedures utilizing cartilage cells are more strongly supported. Overall, the use of cartilage for this purpose is based on scientific validation, but the strength of evidence varies by application.

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