articular nerve

Articular nerves supply synovial joints, following the principle that arteries accompany nerves. These nerves branch from major nerves that also supply the muscles acting on a joint, as described by Hilton's law. For instance, the knee joint receives nerves from the femoral, sciatic, and obturator nerves.1

These articular nerves have two sensory functions: pain (algesic) and proprioception. Pain fibers in the fibrous capsule alert to overstretching or tearing, while proprioceptive fibers inform the central nervous system about joint position and movement. Sensory fibers reaching the synovial membrane are primarily pain-related, causing a more diffuse ache, and are abundant in fatty pads and near cartilage. Injury to these structures can cause significant pain.1

Impaired sensory mechanisms in joints, due to nerve lesions, can lead to neurogenic arthropathy (Charcot joint), a degenerative condition where joints are excessively strained and disintegrate. This is often associated with conditions like diabetes mellitus or syphilis.2