Synovitis: Symptoms, Treatments and Prevention : Your online pharmacy selection

What is synovitis?

Synovitis is an inflammation of the synovial membrane, a layer of tissue that lines the inside of joints and tendon sheaths. This condition can cause pain, swelling and joint stiffness, affecting quality of life. It can be acute or chronic, and often occurs following injury, infection or autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis.

What are the main causes of synovitis?

Synovitis can be caused by a number of factors:

• Infections: Bacterial or viral, they can invade the synovial membrane.
• Trauma: direct injury to the joints.
• Autoimmune diseases: such as rheumatoid arthritis, where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue.
• Wear and tear: Osteoarthritis and other forms of joint degeneration can also cause synovitis.

What are the symptoms of synovitis?

Symptoms of synovitis include:

• Joint pain: Often the first sign, aggravated by movement.
• Swelling: due to accumulation of synovial fluid.
• Stiffness: Particularly pronounced in the morning or after periods of inactivity.
• Redness and warmth around the affected joint.
• Decreased range of motion.

How is synovitis diagnosed?

Synovitis is usually diagnosed by a thorough physical examination, supplemented by :

• Medical imaging: X-rays, MRI or ultrasound scans to observe the condition of the joints.
• Blood tests: to detect signs of inflammation or the presence of markers specific to certain diseases.
• Synovial suction: Sampling of joint fluid for analysis, to detect infections or gout crystals.

What are the treatment options for synovitis?

Treatment of synovitis aims to reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and restore joint function. Options include:

• Anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): To reduce inflammation and pain.
• Corticoids: Injections or tablets for powerful anti-inflammatory action.
• Physiotherapy: Exercises designed to maintain joint mobility and strengthen the muscles around the joint.
• Rest: Avoid activities that place excessive strain on the affected joint.
• Surgery: In severe or chronic cases, to clean or repair the synovial membrane.

Can synovitis disappear on its own?

Yes, some forms of synovitis, particularly those caused by trauma or minor infection, can resolve without specific treatment. However, medical follow-up is recommended to avoid complications or recurrence.

What complications can arise from untreated synovitis?

If left untreated, synovitis can lead to complications such as..:

• Joint destruction: Prolonged inflammation can damage cartilage and bone.
• Infections: Untreated infectious synovitis can spread and become septicemic.
• Functional limitation: Reduced range of motion, impacting quality of life.

How can synovitis be prevented?

Preventing synovitis involves :

• Avoiding injury: Using protective equipment, maintaining good physical condition.
• Managing overall health: Controlling inflammatory or autoimmune diseases with appropriate treatment.
• Regular physical activity: Maintaining flexibility and joint strength to prevent wear and tear.

Is synovitis common in children?

Yes, transient synovitis in particular is quite common in children, often seen in the hips. It manifests as sudden lameness and pain, but usually resolves without permanent treatment within a few weeks.

What is the link between synovitis and sports?

Sports activities, especially those that impose repeated loads or impacts on the joints (such as soccer, running or tennis), can increase the risk of developing synovitis. Using the right equipment, warming up properly before activity and getting adequate rest are crucial to preventing this condition.

What's the difference between synovitis and arthritis?

Although synovitis andarthritis both involve inflammation, they do not refer to the same condition:

• Synovitis: Inflammation specifically of the synovial membrane. It may be an isolated symptom or part of a broader disease.
• Arthritis: General term for inflammation of the joints, which may involve several joint structures, including the synovial membrane, cartilage and bone. Arthritis is often chronic and can be due to a variety of causes, including autoimmune diseases and wear and tear.

Synovitis can be a component of arthritis, especially in conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, where chronic inflammation of the synovial membrane is a major feature.

Are children more likely to develop a specific form of synovitis?

Yes, children are particularly susceptible to transient synovitis of the hip, also known as "acute transient synovitis." This condition mainly affects children between the ages of 3 and 8 and is characterized by:

• Sudden hip pain, often with lameness.
• Absence of highfever (in most cases).
• Spontaneous resolution of symptoms within a few days or weeks.

It is essential to consult a doctor to rule out other more serious conditions such as osteomyelitis or Perthes' disease, especially if pain persists or is accompanied by fever.

Can I play sports with synovitis?

It is possible to play sports with synovitis, but a number of precautions must be taken:

• Medical consultation: Before continuing any sporting activity, it's crucial to consult a doctor.
• Adaptation of activity: Choosing low-impact sports or modifying the intensity and duration of sporting activity can help reduce symptoms.
• Use of supports: Wearing orthoses or other joint supports to stabilize and protect the affected joint.
• Warm-up and hydration: Essential to prepare joints for exertion and avoid further injury.

It is generally advisable to limit activities that aggravate pain or swelling until symptoms improve.

What role can nutrition play in the management of synovitis?

Nutrition plays a crucial role in the management of synovitis, notably by controlling inflammation and providing the nutrients the body needs to repair damaged tissue:

• Omega-3 fatty acids: Found in oily fish, flaxseeds and walnuts, they have anti-inflammatory properties.
• Antioxidants: Colorful fruits and vegetables, rich in vitamins C and E, which help fight free radical damage.
• Curcumin: The active component of turmeric, known for its powerful anti-inflammatory effects.
• Hydration: Drinking enough water is essential to maintain synovial fluid viscosity and facilitate joint movement.

Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains, while limiting consumption of added sugars and saturated fats, is beneficial for reducing inflammation and supporting joint health.

Does synovitis always require medical treatment?

No, synovitis does not always require medical treatment. In cases of transient synovitis, especially in children, the condition may resolve spontaneously without intervention. However, it is important to consult a doctor for a proper diagnosis and to exclude other more severe causes. In cases where synovitis is due to infections, autoimmune diseases, or persists with severe symptoms, medical treatment is necessary to control inflammation, relieve pain and prevent possible complications.