Body Basics: Joints and Their Functions

These flashcards cover the basic concepts of joints, their classifications, movements, and functions in the human body, based on the lecture notes.

Joints

Also known as articulations, these are the points where two or more bones meet, allowing movement in the body.

Fibrous joints

Joints that are held together by tough connective tissue and are usually immovable.

Cartilaginous joints

Joints that use cartilage to connect bones, providing slight movement.

Synovial joints

The most movable type of joint characterized by a joint cavity filled with synovial fluid.

Synarthrosis

A type of joint that is immovable, such as the sutures in the skull.

Amphiarthrosis

A type of joint that allows small amounts of movement, such as the intervertebral discs in the spine.

Diarthrosis

Freely movable joints, exclusively synovial, allowing a wide range of motion.

Uniaxial movement

Movement in one plane, typical of joints like the elbow.

Biaxial movement

Movement in two planes, as seen in joints like the knuckles.

Multiaxial movement

Movement in multiple planes, characteristic of complex joints like the shoulders and hips.

Circumduction

Movement that involves a circular motion, where one part keeps a fixed point and describes a circle.

Angular movement

Movement that changes the angle between body parts, such as flexing an arm.

Evolutionary safety features

Natural adaptations that prevent excessive movement at joints, ensuring safety for nerves and blood vessels.