Joints

Joints are places in the skeleton where bones meet.

Ball-and-Socket Joint

These joints give the maximum range in motion. Like the name suggests, the end of one bone fits into a rounded hollow structure.

Pivot Joint

These joints allow a bone to rotate. This is similar to a ballerina doing a pirouette, or a figure skater spinning.

Hinge Joint

These joints give a large range of motion in only one direction. Similar to the hinges found on doors they allow bones to swing open and closed.

Saddle Joint

These joints allow limited movement in many directions. Like the name suggests the bones sit on top of other bones like a person sitting in a saddle.

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