The degree of movement depends not only on the shape of the joints, but also on the surrounding structures (muscles, ligaments, capsule).

Joint cartilage covers the ends of the bones and can compensate for unevenness of the joint surface. The flexability of cartilage means it can also absorb impacts. Constant switching between load-bearing and load-relieving ensures uniform nourishment and maintenance of the joint cartilage.

Joint pain

Persistent, refractory joint pain can be the first signs of osteoarthritis (wear and tear of joints). This pain is aggravated by cold and damp weather and by stress on the joint.

Impact-type stresses are especially painful. Pain in the joint when starting to move, known as "start-up pain", is typical. In the knee, for example, this happens after getting out of the car, after a long period of sitting, etc. On movement, the pain first decreases and then returns after a longer period of exercise.

Sudden joint pain following a fall, blow or other accident can be the sign of a sprain, dislocation, ligament injury or a fracture. For a lay person, it is often difficult to tell the difference between these types of injury. Certain fractures and ligament injuries, for example, can cause almost no symptoms, whereas a "harmless" sprain can be extremely painful. It is therefore better not to wait for the pain to go away on its own, but to see your doctor. He/she is the only person who can decide whether treatment is necessary and what this should be.