Joint Injuries
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Fast Facts
- The most common joint problems come from arthritis and injuries. Arthritis literally means joint inflammation. Although joint inflammation describes a symptom or sign rather than a specific diagnosis, the term "arthritis" often refers to any disorder affecting the joints. These disorders fall within the broader category known as rheumatic diseases, of which there are more than 100 kinds, and are characterized by inflammation as well as loss of function of one or more connecting or supporting structures of the body.
- More than 46 million people in the United States have arthritis or other rheumatic conditions. By the year 2020, this number is expected to reach 60 million. These diseases more frequently limit activity than do heart disease, cancer, or diabetes.
- The most common form of arthritis is osteoarthritis. It is seen especially among older people and is sometimes called degenerative joint disease. In osteoarthritis, the surface layer of cartilage (the hard but slippery tissue that covers the ends of bones) breaks down and wears away, causing pain, swelling, and loss of joint motion.
- About 435,000 Americans have a hip or knee replaced each year. Because of its structure and weight-bearing capacity, the knee is the most commonly injured joint. In the case of hip joint damage, osteoarthritis is the most common cause.
- Young adults who have had a previous joint injury are more likely to develop osteoarthritis. Researchers are looking for ways to prevent cartilage breakdown after injury.
To Find Out More
Go to the Arthritis and Osteoarthritis pages on MedlinePlus (medlineplus.gov)
The Web site for the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases has much more information on osteoarthritis. www.niams.nih.govoint injuries occur in the knees, ankles, wrists, shoulders and elbows. These joints can swell and suffer from inflammation and redness, making them immobile and limiting their range of motion. Joint injuries often occur as a result of bicycle wrecks, falling in contact sports, and car accidents.