<<Disclaimer: Verify this information before applying it to your situation.>> Sorry it's been so long folks but here is my summary on the CD- Cartilege degeneration link I enquired about. There were many replies who outlined the arthritis connection which seems to be a definite link - at the time I am only 27 though so hopefully arthritis won't be a factor for too long. Many of you wondered wether I followed a muscle strengthening program which I have been for some time. I lifted weights and built all major muscle groups for some time and my legs were very strong at the time my cartilege problems started. I always warmed up and cooled down but probably not as much as I should have. It would be quite easy to blame this on my injuries but I don't feel that is a factor here , mainly because of the fact that since my second operation in December 95 I have done very little sport and now both cartileges are torn in my other knee. Several people had heard of links between ingesting gluten when you are a coeliac which leads to cartilege degeneraton which I feel really could be a factor here. When I have had my surgery I shall ask for some of the supplements suggested to me to see if they help me out. Thank-you all for your input _ I now have to wait 9 months for my operation !!!! -- Paul Rodgers