What is synovitis and what are its symptoms

Synovitis is a disease in which the synovium of the joint becomes inflamed. In the early stage, joint swelling, pain and limited mobility are its main symptoms. Comprehensive treatment is required based on the cause and condition. Treatment of synovitis includes medication, physical therapy and surgery. Common drugs include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, glucocorticoids and intra-articular injections.

Genetic factors may lead to the occurrence of synovitis, and people with a family history of rheumatic diseases have a higher risk of the disease. Environmental factors such as cold and humid environments may induce or aggravate symptoms, and long-term heavy physical labor or excessive exercise will also increase the risk of disease. Physiological factors such as aging, obesity and metabolic abnormalities are also important causes. Obesity will increase the burden on joints, and metabolic abnormalities will affect the health of the synovium. Trauma such as joint sprains, contusions or surgery may lead to synovitis, and chronic strain can also cause synovial damage. Pathological factors such as rheumatoid arthritis, gout and other diseases may cause secondary synovitis, and the primary disease needs to be actively treated.

Typical symptoms of synovitis include joint swelling, pain, and limited movement, which may be accompanied by fever and fatigue in severe cases. Early symptoms are mostly mild discomfort, which gradually worsens and may affect daily life. The pain is usually persistent, aggravated by activity, and relieved after rest, but if the inflammation is severe, it may also be painful even at rest. Joint swelling is often symmetrical, the skin temperature may rise, there may be tenderness when touched, the range of joint movement is limited, and there may be stiffness. Accompanying symptoms such as fever and fatigue are more common in the acute phase or infectious synovitis, and medical attention should be sought in a timely manner to check for infection risks.

Drug therapy is often used to relieve the symptoms of synovitis. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen and diclofenac can relieve pain and inflammation. Glucocorticoids such as prednisone can be used for short-term control of severe inflammation. Intra-articular injections of drugs such as sodium hyaluronate can lubricate the joints. Physical therapy such as hot compresses, cold compresses, ultrasound and electrotherapy can relieve pain and improve blood circulation. Joint function exercises such as stretching and strengthening exercises can help restore joint mobility. Surgical treatments such as arthroscopic synovectomy are suitable for severe cases, and joint replacement is suitable for patients with severe joint damage. Synovectomy can effectively remove diseased synovium.

The prevention and treatment of synovitis requires a multi-pronged approach, including avoiding adverse environmental factors, controlling weight, reducing joint strain, actively treating the primary disease, regular check-ups, and timely adjustment of treatment plans, which will help improve prognosis and quality of life.