The ankle joint is a common site of many injuries like sprains, fractures etc. This part of the skeletal system can be also affected by different arthritic conditions. Ankle injuries are more frequent among athletes.
The Ankle Joint
The ankle joint is a synovial joint comprising the distal end of tibia and fibula and the proximal end of the talus. The mentioned bones are kept in the desirable place with strong, fibrous ligaments and tendons. The terminal parts of the bones are covered with protective cartilage and the inner space of the joint is covered with a synovial membrane. Inflammation of this membrane is medically known as synovitis.
Ankle synovitis represents inflammation of the synovial membrane of the ankle joint. This membrane is in charge with production of fluid necessary for lubrication of the joint and also provides cushioning for the large forces placed on the ankle joint. Sometimes this membrane gets irritated and inflamed.
Ankle Synovitis Causes
Ankle synovitis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the synovial membrane of the ankle joint and all the accompanying symptoms and signs such as pain, swelling, reduction in mobility etc. There is excess of fluid inside the joint, nutrients may not be able to reach all the tissue which eventually leads to degradation of the cartilage and joint instability.
Injuries such as sprains and fractures are common causes of ankle joint synovitis. Chronic problem may be closely related to different infections or result from rheumatoid arthritis, gout and other arthritic conditions.
Ankle Joint Synovitis Clinical Characteristics
Apart from pain and swelling in the affected area, one may notice that the affected ankle is hotter comparing to the healthy one. Pain is mild, moderate or severe, sometimes described as burning. There is also reduced range of motion as well as loss of function of the joint.Ankle Joint Synovitis Treatment
Healing is achieved with rest, ice and NSAIDs. More complex cases of synovitis may require corticosteroid injections or a walking cast/boot. In people in whom synovitis develops as a consequence of some underlying condition, after dealing with this condition, inflammation of the synovial membrane soon subsides.
Ankle Synovitis Prevention
Since ankle synovitis develops as a complication of certain injuries, it can be prevented only if one successfully prevents these injuries from occurring.
Athletes as well as other physically active individuals are due to warm up and prepare their muscles and joints for exercising or training.
And people who are suffering from arthritic conditions may prevent synovitis only if the underlying disease is well-controlled.
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