Classification

Joints

A point of contact between two or more bones that either anchor bones firmly together or allow for a wide range of motion, also known as an articulation or arthrosis

Arthrology

The scientific study of joints

Kinesiology

The study of motion of the human body

Uniaxial

Having or relating to only one single axis

Biaxial

Having or relating to two distinct axes

Multiaxial

Having or relating to more than two distinct axes

Range of Motion

Measures the distance and direction a joint can move in degrees of a circle

Joints: Classification

Structure: Is there a joint cavity?

Tissue: What type of connective tissue is involved?

Function: What degree of motion is permitted?

Joints: Types

Fibrous: A joint connected by dense, irregular connective tissue with no joint cavity.

Cartilaginous: A joint connected by a hyaline or fibrous cartilage and lacking a joint cavity.

Synovial: A joint containing a synovial cavity and capable of free movement.

Synarthroses Joint

A joint that has no movement (e.g., skull sutures, gomphoses, and teeth)

Amphiarthrosis Joint

A joint that has partial movement (e.g., intervertebral disc and pubic symphysis)

Diarthrosis Joint

A joint that has free movement (e.g., knee, shoulder, finger joints)