What is Synovitis?

The synovial membrane is a lining of connective tissue that occurs in the cavities of joints, tendon sheaths and bursae. Our knees, hips, wrists, shoulders and ankle joints have synovial membrane. This membrane also generates synovial fluid and together they help in lubricating joints. When the synovial membrane gets inflamed the condition is known as synovitis. When the membrane also known as synovium is inflamed, it produces excess fluid which collects in a sac and causes the joint to swell.

Who can get affected by synovitis?

Transient synovitis also known as toxic synovitis generally affects children between 3-10 years old. Sudden hip pain can result causing limping or difficulty walking. However this generally clears up with a short time with rest and anti-inflammatory medications. If it takes longer then it could be a more serious condition known as septic arthritis where fluid will have to be drained and intravenous anti-biotics given.

People with rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, juvenile arthritis, lupus and gout also tend to have synovitis.

What are the symptoms of Synovitis?

• Joints will be swollen and puffy
• Joints will feel warm
• Joints will be painful when moved
• If synovitis is present for many years it can lead to chronic pain and bone and cartilage degeneration

Analysing the synovial fluid aspirated from a joint can confirm or rule out various joint diseases such as traumatic arthritis, osteoarthritis, gout, and rheumatoid arthritis.

What causes synovitis?

Synovitis can be caused by injury or trauma to the joint and it can also be caused by diseases such as Rheumatoid disease, juvenile arthritis, lupus, gout, psoriatic arthritis, tuberculosis, Jacobs arthropathy-camptodactyly syndrome, SAPHO syndrome, Pigmented villonodular synovitis, Haemophilia type A and Systemic sclerosis.

What are some natural remedies to treat synovitis?

Synovitis is generally treated with NSAIDs or corticosteroids. Both of these types of medications can have serious side effects when used over a period of time.

Herbs such as Boswellia and Ashwagandha and Turmeric are well known herbs that help to soothe joints. Formulations like Rumalaya Forte and Rumalaya Gel from Himalaya Herbals are herbal ayurvedic formulations with several herbs and minerals that help to relieve symptoms of synovitis. They contain herbs such as boswellia, licorice, guggul, five-leaved chaste tree among others that are potent and beneficial for joints without side effects.

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Arthritis - Types, Causes and Herbal Remedies

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Knee osteoarthritis and Obesity

References:

The Handbook of Diseases

The Medical Advisor - The complete guide to Alternative & Conventional Treatments

Pubmed.org

Himalaya Herbals Company



Herbal remedies for Joints & Muscles

Boswellia
Pure herb which promotes joint mobility

Rumalaya Forte
Relieves occasional pain, ensures joint health

Ashwagandha
Relaxes and Eases joints & muscles