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Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most common causes of disability around the globe,
especially in aging populations. The main symptoms of OA are pain and loss of motion and function
of the affected joint. Hyaline cartilage has limited ability for regeneration due to its avascularity, lack
of nerve endings, and very slow metabolism. Total joint replacement (TJR) has to date been used as
the treatment of end-stage disease. Various joint-sparing alternatives, including conservative and
surgical treatment, have been proposed in the literature; however, no treatment to date has been fully
successful in restoring hyaline cartilage. The mechanical and frictional properties of the cartilage
are of paramount importance in terms of cartilage resistance to continuous loading. OA causes
numerous changes in the macro- and microstructure of cartilage, affecting its mechanical properties.
Increased friction and reduced load-bearing capability of the cartilage accelerate further degradation
of tissue by exerting increased loads on the healthy surrounding tissues. Cartilage repair techniques
aim to restore function and reduce pain in the affected joint. Numerous studies have investigated
the biological aspects of OA progression and cartilage repair techniques. However, the mechanical
properties of cartilage repair techniques are of vital importance and must be addressed too. This
review, therefore, addresses the mechanical and frictional properties of articular cartilage and its
changes during OA, and it summarizes the mechanical outcomes of cartilage repair techniques.
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