BIOLOGY OF THE AGING JOINT

Aging implies changes in joint components over 3 continuum of time tha t contribute later in life to an increasing frequency of clinical comp laints and impairments in function and mobility. This article consider s how aging appears to modify the articular cartilage, subchondral bon e, muscle, the soft tissues, synovial membrane, and synovial fluid. Wh ether the changes in aging inevitably progress through an intermediary phase of ''degenerated cartilage'' to the fibrillated state of osteoa rthritis is not clear.