Orthopaedics · Musculoskeletal System · Medium
Synovitis
Meaning: Inflammation of the membrane lining a joint capsule, causing swelling and pain.
In practice: The transient form is the commonest cause of a limp in children aged 3 to 10, often after a viral illness.
Word parts
- -itis means inflammation
Many medical words are built from Greek and Latin parts like these, so learning a few helps you work out new terms.
Quick check
Two questions on related orthopaedics words.
Which word means: Bony prominence at the first metatarsophalangeal joint, usually with hallux valgus.
Answer: Bunion
Which word means: Age-related degeneration of the spine, with disc narrowing and osteophyte formation.
Answer: Spondylosis
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