Title : Articular cartilage degeneration and pelvic floor dysfunctions: Two faces of tissue aging
Abstract:
Objectives: This presentation aims to analyze the pathophysiological parallels between articular cartilage degeneration and pelvic floor dysfunctions as manifestations of tissue aging. It highlights their shared mechanisms, significant clinical and social impact, and advocates for an integrated, multidisciplinary approach to management.
Methods: A narrative literature review was conducted using international databases (Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science) for articles published between 2014 and 2024. Search terms included articular cartilage degeneration, pelvic floor dysfunction, aging, extracellular matrix, and regenerative therapy. The review included clinical, experimental, and review articles focused on degenerative processes in these tissues within the aging context.
Results: Both conditions share fundamental pathophysiological pathways: degradation of the extracellular matrix, alterations in collagen and elastin fibers, chronic low-grade inflammation, oxidative stress, and the influence of metabolic and hormonal changes. Articular cartilage degeneration leads to osteoarthritis, pain, and functional disability. Pelvic floor dysfunction results in urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, and sexual impairment. Both severely impact quality of life, independence, and impose a substantial burden on healthcare systems. While advances in imaging, minimally invasive surgery, and regenerative therapies offer new prospects, significant challenges remain in prevention and equitable access to comprehensive rehabilitation.
Conclusions: Articular cartilage and pelvic floor tissues are vulnerable to similar age-related degenerative processes. Recognizing their common pathophysiology is crucial for moving beyond a fragmented, specialty-specific view. This perspective enables the development of unified preventive strategies, fosters research into common biomarkers and regenerative treatments, and underscores the necessity of multidisciplinary collaboration among orthopedics, gynecology, rehabilitation, and public health. Such an integrated approach is essential to effectively preserve mobility, autonomy, and dignity in aging populations.
