Articulation

Synthesis Pubis

A cartilaginous joint where the two pubic bones converge and includes a fibrocartilaginous disc.

Diarthrotic joints

Also known as synovial joints, these are freely movable joints that contain synovial fluid.

Synovial membrane

A membrane lining the interior of the joint capsule that produces synovial fluid.

Articular cartilage

Hyaline cartilage that remains covering the ends of the bones in a synovial joint.

Synovial fluid

Fluid that lubricates and nourishes articular cartilage in synovial joints.

Bursa

A synovial membrane sac outside a joint that decreases friction.

Hinge joint

A joint allowing movement in one plane, like the elbow or knee.

Condylar joint

Also called ellipsoidal joints, allowing movement in two planes, like the wrist.

Saddle joint

A joint allowing opposition, found where the trapezium articulates with the first metacarpal.

Ball and socket joint

A joint allowing the most movement, exemplified by the shoulder and hip joints.

Q-angle

The angle formed between the hip and knee, which can influence knee joint injuries.

Pronation

The rotation of the forearm or foot, such as turning the palm down.

Supination

The rotation of the forearm or foot, such as turning the palm up.

Flexion

Decreasing the angle between two bones in a joint.

Extension

Increasing the angle between two bones in a joint.

Hyperextension

Excessive extension of a joint beyond its normal range.

Abduction

Movement away from the midline of the body.

Adduction

Movement toward the midline of the body.

Fracture

A break in the bone that may occur as a result of excessive force applied to a joint.

Sprain

Injury to a ligament caused by stretching or tearing.

Dislocation

An injury where bones in a joint become displaced or misaligned.

Anatomical position

The standard position of the body used as a reference point in anatomy, with feet flat, arms at the side, and palms facing forward.

Lordosis

An excessive inward curve of the spine, commonly seen in the lumbar region.

Kyphosis

An excessive outward curve of the spine, commonly seen in the thoracic region.

Avascular

Describes tissues, such as cartilage, that do not have a direct blood supply.

Eversion

Turning the sole of the foot outward, away from the midline.

Inversion

Turning the sole of the foot inward, towards the midline.