Section 2. Joints

Movement within the skeleton is possible because of the junctions or joints between bones. The type and extent of movement allowed varies enormously between the joints depending on their function.

Classification of Joints

There are 3 main types of joints found in the body which allow increasing amounts of movement.

Fibrous
Cartilagenous
Synovial

Fibrous Joints

Due to the dense fibrous tissue that joins the bones there is very little movement allowed at these joints.

There are 3 types of fibrous joints found in the body:

Suture
Gomphosis
Syndesmosis.

Cartilaginous Joints

Cartilaginous joints are semi-movable joints which are joined together via a pad of hyaline cartilage or fibro cartilage. T

here are 2 types of cartilaginous joints.

1. Primary Cartilaginous (synchondrosis)
2. Secondary Cartilaginous (Symphysis)

Synovial Joints

Most of the joints in the body are freely movable. Synovial joints are more complex and are characterised by the following:

In some cases, the poor fit of the bones together means the stability of the joint needs enhancement. In some Synovial joints, fibro-cartilagenous structures such as menisci or discs may be found. These structures are designed to optimise the shape of the joint surfaces and in turn the stability of the joint.

Intra-Articular

Articular Cartilage - hyaline
Joint Capsule
Synovial Membrane
Synovial Cavity
Synovial Fluid

Extra-articular

Ligaments
Muscle Tendons
menisci or discs
Bursa

Synovial joints can be classified according to the number of planes in which movement is allowed:

- Uniaxial
- Biaxial
- Multiaxial
- Plane

Task - Joint Revision Quiz

Task:

Find out more about the following and make notes on:

Joint Capsule
Synovial Membrane
Synovial Fluid
Hyaline Cartilage
Bursa
Fat Pad
Meniscus

Page updated

Report abuse