Joint erosion, which is visible on x-ray, can be severe and limiting. As the joint becomes eroded and cartilage is damaged, bone-on-bone can be the painful end result. Severe damage to cartilage, tendons, ligaments and bone can cause joints to become unstable and even deformed as rheumatoid arthritis progresses.
Rheumatoid Arthritis: Explained With Pictures
By Carol & Richard Eustice, About.com Guide
Updated October 21, 2006
About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board
Any joint can be affected by rheumatoid arthritis. Aggressive disease can reduce the range-of-motion of many joints. When the weightbearing joints are affected, such as the hips, knees, and ankles, mobility may be greatly impacted.
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- Rheumatoid Arthritis - Pattern of Affected Joints
- Rheumatoid Arthritis - Knee Joint
- Rheumatoid Arthritis - Hip Joint
- Rheumatoid Arthritis - Hands
- Rheumatoid Arthritis - Systemic Disease
- Rheumatoid Arthritis - Knee Replacement
- Rheumatoid Arthritis - Hip Replacement
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