A phenomenological mathematical model of the articular cartilage damage

Articular cartilage (AC) is a biological tissue that allows the distribution of mechanical loads and movement of joints. The presence of these mechanical loads influences the behavior and physiological condition of AC. The loads may cause damaged by fatigue through injuries due to repeated accumulated stresses. The aim of this work is to introduce a phenomenological mathematical model of damage caused by mechanical action. It is considered that tissue failure is a consequence of chondrocyte death and matrix loss, taking into account factors modifying fatigue resistance such as age, body mass index (BMI) and metabolic activity. The model was numerically implemented using the finite elements method and the results obtained allowed us to predict tissue failure at different loading frequencies, different damage sites and variations in damage magnitude. Qualitative concordance between numerical results and experimental data led us to conclude that the model may be useful for physicians and therapists as a prediction tool for prescribing physical exercise and prognosis of joint failure.