Where the Pain Begins

As we age, cartilage, the tissue in our joints that acts as a cushion between bone surfaces, grows brittle and begins to wear away until we have bone rubbing against bone. This loss of cartilage, which results in inflammation, pain, and stiffness in the joints, is known as arthritis.

Because the knee, hip and ankle are weight-bearing joints, the stresses and strains of living, such as injuries, weight, occupation, and genetics affect how much and how fast the cartilage wears away. The shoulder and hand, although non-weight bearing joints, also are frequently affected by arthritis and cartilage wear, and have their own set of stresses that can lead to problems.

The degree to which cartilage in a joint wears away varies from person to person. Moderate degrees of wear can cause intermittent or mild pain, which may be managed with treatments ranging from over-the-counter (or prescription medications) to exercise, weight loss and physical therapy.

If, however, cartilage wear and the accompanying pain reach a point where the normal functions of everyday life become difficult, joint replacement surgery — specifically knee, hip, shoulder or ankle — may be the appropriate option.

• More About Knee Pain and Problems

• Center for Joint Replacement Home
• Where the Pain Begins
• All About Joint Replacement
• Pre-operative Planning and Education
• “Joint Camp”
• Before and After Your Hospital Stay

• Body by Brassard
• AAMC Joint Center Reunion at Westfield Annapolis Mall
• Three New Knees, One New Hip
• Firm Footing
• Good Sports
• Strength in Numbers
• Hand in Hand
• New Knees on Life
• When to Have a Bone Density Test Performed, and Why
• No Bones About It: Staying a Step Ahead of Osteoporosis
• Shoulder to Shoulder
• AAMC's Spine Center Specializes in Relief

• Immunizations For Children Supported By Experts

• Knee Replacement
• Hip Replacement