Cartilage degeneration stands as the main pathological hallmark of joint diseases such as osteoarthritis (OA), characterized by the degradation of cartilage matrix, abnormal cell function, and disruption of structural integrity. This series of changes poses a severe threat to patients’ quality of life. The significant impact of mechanical stimuli on cartilage health and function has long been widely acknowledged, and research on its underlying mechanisms has become relatively systematic and in-depth. However, the specific pathways in which mechanical stimuli affect cartilage, as well as the hidden laws and intrinsic mechanisms behind them, are still in the process of continuous exploration, gradual revelation, and ongoing refinement. This article reviews the research progress in the field of mechanical stimuli and articular cartilage in 2024, indicating that it demonstrated characteristics of greater diversity in research subjects, broader perspectives, and more innovative techniques, further expanding our understanding of the role of mechanical factors in cartilage degeneration. The mechanical regulation-based therapeutic strategies are also explored, such as exercise therapy, biomechanical correction, chemical drug therapy, acupotomy therapy, and tissue engineering, providing theoretical foundations and practical directions for the prevention and treatment of degenerative joint diseases. Future research should concentrate on the integration of multi-scale and multi-perspective mechanisms as well as clinical translation to promote the application of precision medicine in the field of cartilage degeneration.