Unlike osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis usually affects more than one joint at a time. The joints are affected by excess fluid in the synovial membranes, which are tiny sacs of fluid found in the joints. The normal function of the membranes is to produce synovial fluid, which lubricates and nourishes joint cartilage. With rheumatoid arthritis, the synovial tissue swells and leads to the destruction of bone and cartilage. The symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis vary, but many people experience painful joint swelling and progressively limited joint movement as the cartilage wears away.
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Patient Education information provided by Biomet, Inc. - Advanced Science for Real Living™