Physiotherapy FAQ: Joint Problems

There are many styles of joints; they are mainly designed for movement. They consist of the following parts:

• Cartilage: The bones are covered with cartilage which is wear-resistant. Cartilage helps reduce the friction of movement.
• Synovial membrane: This lines the joint and seals it into a joint capsule. The synovial membrane secretes synovial fluid (a clear, sticky fluid) around the joint to lubricate it.
• Ligaments: These are tough, elastic bands of connective tissue around the joint to give support and limit the joint's movement.
• Tendons: These connect muscles to bones and can attach near to joints.
• Bursas: These are fluid-filled sacs which are present in some joints to help cushion the friction in a joint.
• Meniscus: A curved piece of cartilage in the knees and other joints.

Injuries may occur through a specific incident, or over time due to an underlying problem. After an injury the joint needs to be restored to full function to prevent further problems. Pain may often be minimal before full recovery but problems may recur if movement is still limited or the soft tissues around the joint remain weakened. A full physiotherapy assessment will identify any concerns. Advice for self help and other treatment, if necessary, will be based on restoring full function. Also see our Self Help section for immediate action that you can take.