Cartilage: The Cushion Between Your Bones - Definition & Types

The material at ends acts as cushion between two bones is called cartilage. Cartilage is a type of connective tissue that is found in many parts of the body, including the joints. It is made up of cells called chondrocytes, which are embedded in a matrix of collagen and other proteins. Cartilage is flexible and strong, and it helps to protect bones from wear and tear.

There are three types of cartilage:

* Hyaline cartilage is the most common type of cartilage. It is found in the joints, nose, trachea, and bronchi.

* Elastic cartilage is found in the ears and epiglottis. It is more flexible than hyaline cartilage.

* Fibrocartilage is found in the intervertebral discs and menisci of the knee. It is the strongest type of cartilage.

Cartilage is avascular, which means that it does not have any blood vessels. This means that it is slow to heal if it is injured. However, cartilage can regenerate itself over time.