Effects of corticosteroids on articular cartilage: a review of the literature.

Physical therapists evaluate and treat patients who simultaneously may be receiving corticosteroid compounds to reduce inflammation and pain associated with certain diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Both beneficial and deleterious effects of corticosteroids on articular cartilage have been reported. Physical therapists and others treating joints with pathological conditions should understand these effects and use this knowledge to establish and modify therapeutic management programs for patients with joint dysfunction. A review of the literature is presented.