Synovial fluid is a thick and viscous substance found in the cavities of our synovial joints, the most common type of joint in the body. It allows the bones to glide over one another with relative ease, which reduces wear and tear, and decreases pain and inflammation.

Purposes of Synovial Fluid

Nutrition for Articular Cartilage

Synovial fluid contains nutrients such as hyaluronic acid, which helps maintain high fluid viscosity and nourishes the articular cartilage. Hyaluronic acid molecules do so by binding to water to keep the fluid from thickening or drying out. 

Protection from Infection

Synovial fluid contains high levels of leukocytes, also known as white blood cells, which fight off bacteria in the joint.

Lubrication

During joint movement, synovial fluid reduces friction, allowing joints to move over one another with minimal resistance, which reduces the wear and tear on the bone surfaces.

Detection of Damage

Chemical components in the fluid, including glycoproteins, can be used to detect damage to the joint’s cartilage, ligaments, and tendons.  

Shock Absorber

Synovial fluid serves as a major shock absorber of the musculoskeletal system. 

What is a Synovial Fluid Analysis?

A synovial fluid analysis is a test that can be conducted to detect certain diseases or damage to the joints, ligaments, tendons, and other tissues in the joint. A small sample of fluid is taken from the joint via aspiration and analyzed in a laboratory. Increased leukocyte count and the presence of specific components may indicate disease or damage. The tests usually include the following: 

• Exam of the physical qualities of the fluid, including its color and thickness
• Chemical tests
• Microscopic analysis

The analysis can be used to diagnose the cause of joint pain and inflammation, like conditions such as:

• Osteoarthritis: chronic, progressive disease that causes joint cartilage to break down
• Gout: type of arthritis that causes inflammation in the joints
• A bleeding disorder: excessive bleeding
• Rheumatoid arthritis: when the body’s immune system attacks healthy cells in your joint
• Joint effusion: when too much fluid builds up around the joint
• Infection in a joint

Healthy synovial fluid will appear clear and colorless, stringy, and free of bacteria and viruses. An indication that you may have a condition is cloudy and overly thick synovial fluid. You should receive an analysis if you have symptoms of a joint disorder, like joint pain, swelling, redness, or a joint that feels warm to the touch. 

Contact Rejuvinix

At Rejuvinix, we pride ourselves on providing non-surgical joint treatments to optimize our patient’s quality of life. Since joints are some of the most intricate structures in our body, they can be susceptible to numerous conditions and types of injuries. Fortunately, Rejuvinix is here to eliminate joint pain and improve joint function. Contact us today to learn more!