Britannica
Sources used in this answer
How can rheumatoid arthritis cause joint deformities?
Created from Britannica articles
using AI.
AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.
arthritis
Learn about prosthetic jaw joint replacements and how that technology can be used for hip, shoulder, and spinal joint replacements.
Rheumatoid arthritis causes joint deformities primarily through chronic inflammation of the synovial membranes, which leads to the formation of a destructive, scarlike tissue known as pannus.1
As this pannus thickens and protrudes over the surface of the cartilage, it erodes and destroys the underlying joint structures. The resulting damage contributes to deformity in several ways:1
- Ankylosis: The joints may become fixed in place as the pannus hardens, creating a firm union between bony surfaces that renders the joint immobile.12
- Structural Instability: The loss of cartilage and bone, combined with the weakening of tendons and ligaments, leads to joint instability and partial dislocation.2
- Atrophy: Adjacent skin, bones, and muscles may undergo atrophy due to both the disease process and disuse, further altering the appearance and function of the joint.1
Proper physical therapy and medical management are essential to help maintain posture and range of motion, which can assist in preventing or minimizing these deformities.12