Joint Types

Header: Introduction to Joint Types

• In the human body, a joint is where two or more bones meet, which functionally enables movements.
• Joints can be classified according to the type of movement they allow and their structure.

Header: Fibrous Joints

• Fibrous joints, as the name suggests, are connected by fibrous tissue. They allow minimal or no movement.
• An example of a fibrous joint is the sutures between the skull bones.

Header: Cartilaginous Joints

• In Cartilaginous joints, bones are connected by cartilage, allowing a small amount of movement.
• Examples include the joints between the vertebrae in the spine and the pubic symphysis found in the pelvic girdle.

Header: Synovial Joints

• The most common and moveable type of joint in the body is the synovial joint.
• Synovial joints are filled with synovial fluid which reduces friction and allows for free movement.
• They are surrounded by a fibrous articular capsule which provides stability.
• There are six different types of synovial joints: Ball-and-socket joints, Hinge joints, Pivot joints, Condyloid joints, Saddle joints, and Plane joints.

Header: Ball-and-Socket Joints

• Ball-and-socket joints allow for the greatest range of motion.
• Examples include the hip and shoulder joints.

Header: Hinge Joints

• Hinge joints, much like a hinge on a door, allow for back-and-forth movement.
• Examples include the knees, elbows, and fingers.

Header: Pivot Joints

• Pivot joints allow for rotational movement about a single axis.
• An example is the joint between the first two neck vertebrae, allowing rotation of the head.

Header: Condyloid Joints

• Condyloid joints allow for movement but no rotation.
• An example is the wrist joint, which allows movement in two planes - up and down, and side-to-side.

Header: Saddle Joints

• Saddle joints are so named because the bones nest together like a rider in a saddle, allowing for greater movement.
• An example is the thumb joint, which can move back and forth and up and down.

Header: Plane Joints

• Plane joints usually involve two flat bone faces of roughly similar size sliding over one another.
• Examples include the intercarpal joints of the wrist.

Understanding these joint types provides a framework for analysing the complexities of human body movement.