FLOATING CARTILAGE Meaning and
Definition
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Floating cartilage refers to small fragments or pieces of cartilage that detach from their anatomical location within a joint and move freely within the joint space. Cartilage is a tough, flexible connective tissue that provides cushioning and support to joints, allowing smooth movement between bones. However, in certain instances, such as joint injury or degeneration, pieces of cartilage may become dislodged, leading to the development of floating cartilage.
These fragments can vary in size and shape, and their movement within the joint can cause a range of symptoms, including pain, swelling, and limited range of motion. Floating cartilage most commonly occurs in larger joints like the knee, but it can also affect other joints, such as the elbow, ankle, or shoulder.
The presence of floating cartilage can result in joint instability, as the loose fragments disrupt the normal articulation of the joint. This can lead to cartilage wear and tear, joint inflammation, and even damage to surrounding structures. To diagnose floating cartilage, imaging techniques like X-rays or MRI scans may be used to identify the presence and location of the loose fragments.
Treatment options for floating cartilage depend on the severity and impact of the symptoms. Non-surgical interventions may include pain management, rest, physical therapy, and the use of assistive devices. In more severe cases, arthroscopic surgery may be recommended to remove the loose fragments and potentially repair damaged cartilage or structures within the joint. Rehabilitation and exercises are typically recommended to restore joint function and prevent future floating cartilage occurrences.
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A loose meniscus articularis, especially in the knee-joint.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for FLOATING CARTILAGE
- floating cartilagg
- floatinngcartilage
- flowatingcartilage
- f loating cartilage
- fl oating cartilage
- flo ating cartilage
- floa ting cartilage
- float ing cartilage
- floati ng cartilage
- floatin g cartilage
- floating c artilage
- floating ca rtilage
- floating car tilage
- floating cart ilage
- floating carti lage
- floating cartil age
- floating cartila ge
- floating cartilag e
Etymology of FLOATING CARTILAGE
The etymology of the word "floating cartilage" can be understood by examining the roots of its components:1. "Floating": The word "floating" comes from the Middle English word "floaten", which means "to float or be buoyant". It can be traced back to the Old English word "flotian", meaning "to float or swim". The ultimate origin of "float" is uncertain, but it is likely related to the Old Norse word "floti", meaning "raft" or "float". 2. "Cartilage": The term "cartilage" originated from the Latin word "cartilago", which refers to the flexible connective tissue found within the body. In Latin, "cartilago" can be traced back to the noun "caro", meaning "flesh", and the suffix "-il", which signifies diminution or likeness, indicating the soft and pliable nature of cartilage.
