Arthritic damage refers to the pathological changes that occur in the structures of a joint in the context of inflammatory or degenerative arthritis. It includes deterioration of the articular cartilage, damage to the subchondral bone, inflammation of the synovial membrane, as well as alterations of the periarticular ligaments and joint capsule.
In osteoarthritis, the damage is mainly mechanical and degenerative in nature, characterized by gradual thinning of the cartilage and the formation of osteophytes. In rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory arthropathies, the damage results from chronic autoimmune inflammation of the synovial membrane, which may lead to destruction of both the cartilage and the underlying bone.
Progressive arthritic damage causes pain, swelling, stiffness, particularly morning stiffness in inflammatory forms, and gradual restriction of joint mobility, significantly affecting the patient’s function and quality of life.
The extent and severity of the damage are assessed clinically in combination with imaging studies, such as X-rays for evaluation of bony changes or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for more detailed visualization of cartilage and soft tissues. In inflammatory forms, laboratory markers of inflammation also contribute to the diagnostic evaluation.
Treatment depends on the type and severity of the damage and may include medication, physiotherapy, intra-articular injections, and, in advanced cases with significant joint destruction, surgical intervention such as joint arthroplasty.