The lubrication fluid of bursae, synovial sheaths and joints is secreted from protrusions of synovial membrane, synovial villi, located in loose parts of the joint capsule away from any compressed surfaces. This is synovial fluid. In a normal synovial sac, only a small amount of fluid is present. The viscosity of this clear or pale yellow liquid is more during slow movement, which is when the rate of shear is low. But when the shear rates are highest, the viscosity becomes much lower. The fluid drag and hence the supporting ability of the joint is therefore greatest when the limb is quietly bearing weight; the impedance is conveniently reduced for fast movements. | The lubrication fluid of bursae, synovial sheaths and joints is secreted from protrusions of synovial membrane, synovial villi, located in loose parts of the joint capsule away from any compressed surfaces. This is synovial fluid. In a normal synovial sac, only a small amount of fluid is present. The viscosity of this clear or pale yellow liquid is more during slow movement, which is when the rate of shear is low. But when the shear rates are highest, the viscosity becomes much lower. The fluid drag and hence the supporting ability of the joint is therefore greatest when the limb is quietly bearing weight; the impedance is conveniently reduced for fast movements. |