Lady Gaga will not be on a stage anytime soon. The performer tweeted followers she has been hiding a show injury and chronic pain for some time. While she hasn’t revealed exactly what the injury is, Gaga said the condition worsened over the past month, making it difficult for her to walk, and forcing her to cancel upcoming shows.
“I’ve been praying it would heal,” Gaga said.
Her injury has been complicated by synovitis, also known as severe inflammation of joints. The synovial membrane lines and protects synovial (freely moving) joints. When injured, it swells and produces extra fluid. This causes stretching of the ligaments, which can result in joints becoming stiff and painful.
The knee is a common victim to synovitis, although it’s not been confirmed if this is where Gaga’s injury occurred. Knee injuries often happen to dancers due to the wear and tear of their joints during practices and performances.
Treatment for synovitis often consists of rest and medication. Inflammations that are more severe may require cortisone injections, surgery and physical therapy.