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Joints are sites of motion between two bones, each of which is lined with a smooth, friction free surface called articular
cartilage. The alignment and stability of the joint are maintained by supportive structures called ligaments and tendons, and cushioning of the joints is provided by fluid filled sacs called bursae. Ligaments are
cord like structures that run from bone to bone, while tendons run from muscle to bone. Inflammation of either structure at the site of attachment to the bone is known as enthesopathy, while inflammation of the
bursae is known as bursitis. Inflammation of ligaments, tendons, and bursae can occur as a result of trauma to the joint or as result of overuse such as
in athletic injury. Inflammation of the structures around a joint can also occur as one the first signs of a systemic inflammatory arthritis. In sero-negative arthritis (psoriatic arthritis, colitic arthritis,
Reiter's syndrome) enthesopathy is often the first and most significant manifestation of the disease and is best treated by a rheumatologist with systemic anti-inflammatory medications.Our physicians can quickly
determine if inflammation of a ligament, tendon, or bursae represents a mechanical problem or an inflammatory problem. If the problem is mechanical we can provide treatment by a staff orthopedist with
specialization in sports medicine and can provide access to state of the art physical therapy in a variety of convenient locations. If the problem is systemic inflammatory arthritis, our rheumatologists can
provide treatment with a wide variety of anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive medications as well as access to novel treatments, which are not yet approved for general use, through our ambulatory clinical research
center (ACRS). Our rheumatologists, orthopedists, and physiatrists work together to insure an integrated plan of care . Patients can be seen at the
Rheumatology Faculty Practice (212) 598-6516. |
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