Cartilage Cells

Cells in little pockets

Cartilage cells are also called chondrocytes. Each one lives inside a tiny pocket.

All around the pockets is the cartilage the cells made. It is firm but bendy, like a rubbery gel.

Ears, nose, and cushions

You can find cartilage in lots of places:

• Your ears, which is why they fold and spring back.
• The tip of your nose.
• Smooth cushions on the ends of bones in your joints, like knees and elbows.

The cushions help your bones slide smoothly instead of rubbing.

Home activity: Gently fold the top of your ear down, then let go. It pops back! Now feel the hard bone behind your ear. Can you feel the difference?

Why cartilage heals slowly

Most parts of your body have blood tubes that bring food and oxygen. Cartilage has no blood tubes. Its cells get what they need slowly, as it soaks in from around them.

That's why cartilage heals slowly if it gets hurt.

Cartilage quiz