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Joint Pointers
Posted: June 1, 2006
A joint is the place where two moving bones come together. Most joints are designed to allow smooth movement between the bones and to absorb shock from movements like walking or repetitive movements. The joint is made up of:
- Cartilage: a hard but slippery coating on the end of each bone.
- Joint capsule: a tough membrane sac that holds all the bones and other joint parts together.
- Synovium: a thin membrane inside the joint capsule.
- Synovial fluid: a fluid that lubricates the joint and keeps the cartilage smooth and healthy.
- Ligaments, tendons, and muscles: tissues that keep the bones stable and allow the joint to bend and move. Ligaments are tough, cord-like tissues that connect one bone to another. Tendons are tough, fibrous cords that connect muscles to bones. Muscles are bundles of specialized cells that contract to produce movement when stimulated by nerves.
Joints can be damaged by arthritis and other diseases, injuries, or other causes.
Arthritis or simply years of use may cause the joint to wear away. This can cause pain, stiffness, and swelling. Bones are alive, and need blood to be healthy, grow, and repair themselves. Diseases and damage inside a joint can limit blood flow, causing problems.
Joint replacement is often the answer if you have constant pain and can’t move the joint well; for example, if you have trouble with things like walking, climbing stairs, and taking a bath.
A new joint, called a prosthesis, can be made of plastic, metal, or both. It may be cemented into place or not cemented, so that your bone will grow into it. Both methods may be combined to keep the new joint in place.
Joint replacement is becoming more common. About 435,000 Americans had a hip or knee replaced last year. Research has shown that even if you are older, joint replacement can help you move around and feel better.
It’s important to keep in mind that any surgery has risks. Risks of joint surgery will depend on your health before surgery, how severe your arthritis is, and the type of surgery done. Your physician will discuss these with you if surgery is recommended.
Source: National Institute of Arthritis, Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases
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