Key takeaways
- Cartilage covers the ends of bones.
- It is mostly water and collagen.
- It has no blood supply.
- Movement nourishes cartilage.
- It thins and dries with age.
You cannot see or feel cartilage directly, but every comfortable step depends on it.
Types of cartilage
| Type | Where it is found |
|---|---|
| Hyaline (articular) | Joint surfaces, ribs, nose |
| Fibrocartilage | Knee menisci, spinal discs |
| Elastic | Ear, epiglottis |
What articular cartilage is made of
Water (65–80%)
Gives cartilage its cushioning and shock-absorbing ability.
Type II collagen
A strong fibre network that provides structure.
Proteoglycans
Large molecules built from glycosaminoglycans, such as chondroitin sulfate, which attract and hold water. Glucosamine is a building block for these molecules.
Why cartilage needs support
Because cartilage has no blood vessels, it relies on movement to pump nutrient-rich joint fluid in and out, and it repairs slowly. Over time, age, injury, extra weight and inactivity can affect it. Keep moving with low-impact exercise, strengthen the muscles around your joints, maintain a healthy weight and eat a balanced diet with vitamin C for collagen. Feilaira supplies glucosamine and chondroitin, plus MSM, Boswellia, turmeric and bromelain, to support cartilage and joint comfort.
Sources
- Sophia Fox A.J. et al. – "The basic science of articular cartilage: structure, composition, and function," Sports Health, 2009.
- Cleveland Clinic – "Cartilage."
- Arthritis Foundation – "How joints work."
Common questions
What is cartilage made of?
Mostly water, type II collagen and proteoglycans.
Can cartilage repair itself?
Only slowly, because it has no blood supply.
How can I support my cartilage?
Regular movement, a healthy weight, strong muscles and good nutrition.