The normal mechanical properties of the chondrocytes and the pericellular matrix(PCM)is significant for maintaining the healthy articular cartilage. In the compressive stress environment, the chondrocytes exhibit viscoelastic solid material properties with anisotropic and inhomogeneous compressive mechanical characteristics. The PCM plays a definite mechanical protective role for the chondrocytes. The compressive stress may have an important influence on the metabolic activity of the chondrocytes. In spite of these, the biomechanical properties of the chondrocytes and the PCM are not fully understood, and still need further more study.