Methods for treating joint diseases, disorders, and conditions, such as osteoarthritis, with a composition containing a therapeutically effective amount of tissue inhibitors of matrix metalloproteinases (TIMPs) are provided. The composition can contain TIMPs as part of amniotic fluid, or the TIMPs can be isolated from another source or recombinantly produced. The methods are particularly useful for treating osteoarthritis associated with degradation of articular cartilage by proteases. Also provided are methods of lubricating a joint, such as an osteoarthritic joint.