Joints and Articulations Overview

A set of flashcards covering the types, functions, and components of joints as described in the lecture notes.

What are joints also known as?

Articulations

What is the definition of a joint?

The place of union between two or more bones

What are the three main types of joints?

Fibrous, cartilaginous, and synovial

On what two bases are joints classified?

According to their construction or according to the degree of movement they allow

What are adult fibrous joints, which consist of inflexible layers of dense connective tissue holding bones together, also called?

Sutures

What are the fontanelles on a newborn's skull commonly known as?

The soft spots

What are functions of fontanelles ?

To help facilitate the infant during child birth through the birth canal, they also allow for the growth of the skull during the first year

What characterizes cartilaginous joints?

They allow only slight movement and consist of being connected entirely by cartilage

What is the function of the pubic symphysis?

It allows some movement to facilitate childbirth

Where is the pubic symphysis located?

Between the pubic bones and the anterior of the pelvis

What does the term articulate mean in the context of synovial joints?

To come together

Which type of synovial joints permit a wide range of movement in many directions?

Ball and socket joints, such as the hips and shoulders

Which synovial joints allow movement primarily in one direction or plane?

Hinge joints, such as the knees and elbows

What is the synovial capsule?

The outermost layer of strong fibrous tissue that resembles a sleeve as it surrounds the joint

Which component of a synovial joint secretes synovial fluid?

The synovial membrane

What is the function of synovial fluid?

It acts as a lubricant to make the smooth movement of the joint possible

What are ligaments?

Bands of fibrous tissue that form joints by connecting one bone to another bone or by joining a bone to cartilage

What is a bursa?

A fibrous sac that acts as a cushion to ease movement in areas that are subject to friction