In reality, osteoarthritis produces relatively little inflammation, and although the pain and soreness it produces seem to emanate from the bones, the problem actually involves deterioration of cartilage in the joints. Some experts refer to this condition by the more accurate term degenerative joint disease. In fact, most people who say they have arthritis actually have degeneration of the cartilage in their joints. The joints of the body are the intersections where two bones interact with one another. The ends of these bones are covered with cartilage - a smooth, durable substance that allows bones to glide over each other with minimal friction.
Cartilage also acts as a cushioning device to absorb forces applied to the joints.
Back to Top Unlike most of parts of the body, however, cartilage receives no nourishment directly from the blood. It would soon become dry and brittle without the presence of another a substance called synovial fluid. A viscous substance similar to oil, synovial fluid brings nutrients to the cartilage so that it does not die and keeps its surface lubricated so the joints can work smoothly. A structure called the joint capsule keeps the synovial fluid from within the joint. The capsule is critical to joint function.