M65: Synovitis and tenosynovitis

M65.9: Synovitis and tenosynovitis, unspecified

Synovitis and tenosynovitis are medical conditions related to inflammation and occur in two parts of our joints: the synovium and the tendon sheath. This can happen in any joint but is often seen in the wrists, hands, knees, and feet. The synovium is a thin layer of tissue that lines our joints and tendon sheathes, producing fluid that lubricates these areas and makes movement easier. In synovitis, the synovium becomes inflamed due to various causes like injury, overuse, or diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis or gout. Similarly, tenosynovitis refers to inflammation of the sheath that surrounds a tendon. Symptoms for both conditions are usually similar and may include pain, tenderness, swelling, and difficulty in moving the joint. Over time, untreated synovitis and tenosynovitis can potentially lead to joint damage.