Courtesy of Intermountain Medical Imaging, Boise, Idaho. Figure 1 is an X-ray of a normal knee with normal space between the bones of the upper and lower leg. Figure 2 shows bone spurs and a narrowed joint space caused by osteoarthritis.
What are glucosamine and chondroitin? Glucosamine and chondroitin are part of normal cartilage. Cartilage acts as a cushion between the bones in a joint. Glucosamine, also called chitosamine, is a natural substance that is found in the covering of shellfish. It is available in different forms, including glucosamine…
Osteoarthritis is a condition in which the cartilage that protects and cushions the joints breaks down over time. Eventually, the bones-formerly separated by the cartilage-rub against each other. This results in damage to the tissue and bone and causes painful joint symptoms. Osteoarthritis is common in the finger and…
Bony bumps on the finger joint closest to the fingernail are called Heberden’s nodes. Bony bumps on the middle joint of the finger are known as Bouchard’s nodes. Bony bumps are also common at the base of the thumb. These bumps do not have a nickname, but the joint is called the CMC or carpometacarpal joint. The name…
After being away from sports since his college days, Steve decided it was time to get back in shape and back into the game. Squash (an indoor racquet sport) and weight training topped his list of activities to enjoy again. And he did for a while—until arthritis turned his enjoyment into pain. First signs of pain Steve…