Hyaline cartilage is found on the surfaces of movable joints, where its primary role is to minimize friction between moving bones. Its cells, called chondrocytes, continually build materials that help keep cartilage healthy.

Because hyaline cartilage does not contain blood vessels, joint compression and decompression help nutrients reach cartilage cells. Daily movement and an active lifestyle therefore play an important role in maintaining healthy joints.

Regular exercise is valuable, but individual joints may still become tight or restricted over time. The original article describes the chiropractor’s role as identifying joints that are not moving normally and helping to restore movement—sometimes with gentle mobilization.

A note about this resource

This article is educational and is not a diagnosis or a substitute for advice based on your individual circumstances.