Effects of aging and physical activity on articular cartilage: a literature review
Braz. j. morphol. sci
;
29(1): 1-17, Jan.-Mar. 2012.
Article
in English
| LILACS
| ID: lil-654231
ABSTRACT
The overall aim of this literature review is, by making use of major databases, to introduce the conceptsabout the articular cartilage structure and the effects of aging on articular cartilage. The effects of physicalexercises on those cartilages are also discussed. The most important observations found are cartilage thicknessdecreases gradually with age as well the content of proteoglycans and water, and there is an increase and thecollagen fibrils, which may be associated with the increased rigidity and fragility of the articular cartilage. Whenproperly done, physical activities produce compressive stimuli which enhance the activity of chondrocytesincreasing its nuclear volume density per area, as well as the width of the layers leading to greater resistance tocompression. Another consequence is extracellular matrix hydration resulting in greater mechanical resistanceand elasticity and a consequent increase the number of collagen fibrils which generates greater resistance todeformation and implies less rigidity. These facts reduce the risk of breakdown of cartilage when it is subjectedto high mechanical demand.
Full text:
Available
Index:
LILACS (Americas)
Main subject:
Aging
/
Exercise
/
Cartilage, Articular
Language:
English
Journal:
Braz. j. morphol. sci
Journal subject:
Anatomy
Year:
2012
Type:
Article
Affiliation country:
Brazil
Institution/Affiliation country:
São Judas Tadeu University/BR
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