Synovitis is a common condition that refers to the inflammation of the lining of the synovium, a protective membrane or sheath that surrounds joints and tendons, such as those in the jaw, hand, wrist, knee, ankle and foot.
The synovial membrane secretes a clear fluid that acts as a lubricant for the joints and tendons. Irritation, injury, and joint conditions, such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and gout, may cause excess fluid to accumulate, resulting in these common symptoms:
The specialists at Lancaster Orthopedic Group have extensive experience in relieving synovitis and its symptoms.
Depending on the underlying cause, which is typically identified with synovial fluid analysis, synovitis is most often treated with anti-inflammatory medications to relieve pain and swelling, antibiotics for infection, and corticosteroid injections to improve joint movement.