Arthrosis

Published on Locomotor system.

The bones of a joint are kept in the right place by ligaments and tendons which allow only normal movement. The muscles also determine the maintenance of joint stability. Joints are enclosed in fibrous capsules filled with a thin layer (joint cap mucus) that continuously produces liquid, called synovium fluid, which acts as the cartilage’s lubricant and nutrient. In healthy joints, the tops of the bones are covered by a “layer” of off-white elastic matter called cartilage (the one at the knee is called meniscus). The cartilage allows the smooth movement of the bones and acts as a cushion that absorbs the shock of bone movement and weight. Arthrosis results from the progressive wear and tear of the joint tissue, and in particular the cartilage, which leads to increasing pain, deformity, and difficulty of movement. The onset of hip arthritis starts with the deterioration of the cartilage, which loses its elasticity and becomes less effective. In the absence of part, or all, of this “cushioning” effect of the cartilage, the bones rub one another and cause friction, inflammation, pain, and difficulty in moving. In very advanced stages of this condition, pieces of cartilage and bone may get loose and lodge themselves in the joint, seriously limiting or blocking movement altogether. The hips, knees, shoulders, feet, and fingers are the most frequently affected by this condition.

We saw earlier that the articular cartilage is located at the centre of the joints where the bones come together. In the knee, for instance, the femur and the tibia meet. This cartilage is called meniscus.

Here we are at the movement level. If the movement is not adequate, we develop a joint problem. Undervaluation of movement is reflected on the joints. It can be reflected in a movement in sports or in any movement, in any action of our lives which indicates change of direction or flexibility. The movements of life are reflected in the body, and the injuries of the body are reflected on life.

We are in the presence of movement quality. A person may undervalue himself through movement.

Sports and manual occupations are excellent examples of this. Consider the surgeon, the dentist, the pianist, and the secretary.

Joint problems indicate conflicts of movement undervaluation. “I didn’t do the right move. I’m not worth a thing!”

In the case of rheumatism, for example, the person says, “I’m no longer as good at this (movement)…”

When the person develops arthrosis, it shows that the bone is healing, regaining strength, following undervaluation. The undervaluation has been repaired. The tension was resolved, perhaps not its causes, but at least the effects.

Study the joint where you experience problems.

© Copyright by Luís Martins Simões, developed by RUPEAL