Abstract
A simple analysis of squeeze films between compliant surfaces is presented and supported experimentally. Application of this analysis to synovial joints strongly indicates that a squeeze film of synovial fluid is readily maintained; further, the film appears to be hydrodynamically replenished through entrainment of fluid when the joint is moved. Joint failures due to ageing or injury and the failure of prostheses are rationalizable in terms of reduced film thickness and increased stress resulting from reduction of conformity and compliance of joint surfaces.

This publication has 6 references indexed in Scilit: