Pictures of RA show damage in both knees, where OA typically affects only one.
Imaging studies in RA also show joint space narrowing, bone erosion, and joint deformity.
This damage occurs from inflammation in thesynoviallining(membrane lining the joints).
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The inflamed synovium releases enzymes that digest bone and cartilage.
This article discusses what RA looks like in different joints.
In a healthy knee, these are cushioned by wedge-shaped pieces of cartilage (called themenisci).
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Research suggests that shoulder impairment may be significant in the first 18 months of disease activity.
The first surgery is typicallyarthroscopic synovectomy, in which much of the synovium is removed.
If that’s unsuccessful, elbow-replacement surgery may be considered.
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About 450,000 Americans have a hip replaced each year.
Severe damage to cartilage, tendons, ligaments, and bone can cause joints to become unstable.
Joint instability can lead tosubluxation(partial dislocation) or, less often, dislocation.
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This is an uncommon but serious problem that needs to be corrected with surgery to avoid permanent damage.
Get our printable guide for your next healthcare provider’s appointment to help you ask the right questions.
Rheumatoid Arthritis and Systemic Disease
Rheumatoid arthritis doesn’t only affect the joints.
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This is typically symmetrical, with the same joints affected on both sides of the body.
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Get our printable guide for your next healthcare provider’s appointment to help you ask the right questions.
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