Synovial Fluid Lubrication

Synovial Fluid Lubrication

Synovial fluid is the key lubricant between moving, adjacent structures that interface to create joints. It helps to reduce the friction between the moving structures, allowing effortless motion and preventing further damage. It is a viscoelastic fluid that can accommodate changes in pressure, load, temperature and orientation of the joint.

What is Synovial Fluid?

Synovial Fluid is a viscous liquid that can be found within the joint capsule of a synovial joint. It is produced by the synovium which is the inner lining of the joint. The fluid consists of cells of different types, suspended in a watery base known as the synovial liquid. The fluid is responsible for lubricating and cushioning the joint, thus reducing friction between the bones that make up the joint.

What Are the Functions of Synovial Fluid?

Synovial fluid has several key roles such as:

• Lubrication: The fluid acts as a lubricant, reducing the friction between the two adjacent joints.
• Cushion: It acts as a cushion, providing shock absorbancy and therefore reducing joint impact forces.
• Nutrition: The synovial fluid also contains nutrients that are essential for the cells in the joint.
• Protection: It also helps protect the joint from injury.

Conclusion

Synovial fluid is essential for lubrication and cushioning of the joint and helps reduce the friction caused by movement. It also provides nutrition and protection for the joint. Without synovial fluid, the joint components would suffer increased wear and tear and the joint mobility would be significantly reduced.