Factors associated with articular cartilage T2 relaxation time in uninjured individuals

Purpose
Mechanical loading during physical activity promotes synthesis of proteoglycans and collagen in the extracellular matrix to maintain normal organization of cartilage. In healthy individuals, greater knee joint loading is associated with thicker articular cartilage. T2 relaxation time is a quantitative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) method that can be used to assess articular cartilage structure. Increased T2 relaxation times indicate deterioration of the collagen network and increased water content.