Joint Anatomy

Joints can be the source of pain and discomfort caused by many forms of arthritis. Learn about the structure and anatomy of the various joints that can be affected by arthritis and other conditions.

Medical illustration of the hip joint including the acetabular rim, femoral head, greater trochanter

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Hip Anatomy

The hip joint is an intricate structure including hip bones, hip articular cartilage, muscles, ligaments and tendons, and synovial fluid. A problem with any one of these parts of the hip anatomy can result in pain.

Medical illustration of the synovial membrane and synovial fluid in the knee

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How Do Synovial Joints Work?

Healthy synovial joints provide ease of motion with slick cartilage and synovial fluid.

Illustration of the three knee bones: patella, femur and tibia

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Knee Anatomy

Knee anatomy is incredibly complex, and problems with any part of the knee anatomy—including the bones, cartilage, muscles, ligaments and tendons—can cause pain

Illustration of the shoulder bones with the clavicle, scapula and humerus labeled

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Shoulder Anatomy

Shoulder Anatomy is a remarkable combination of strong bones, flexible ligaments and tendons, and reinforcing cartilage and muscles. The shoulder is designed to be incredibly flexible, enabling a wide range of motion.

Medical illustration of the four joints of the shoulder Sternoclavicular, acromioclavicular, glenohumeral, and scapulothoriacic are labeled..

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Shoulder Joint Structure

The shoulder's ball-and-socket construction is essential to how the shoulder joint works. There are actually four joints within the shoulder: the glenohumeral, acromioclavicular, sternoclavicular, and the scapulothoracic.

Medical illustration of the synovial membrane in the knee

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What Is a Synovial Joint?

Most of the body's joints are synovial joints, which allows for movement but leaves then susceptible to arthritis and related inflammatory conditions.