Types of Joints

These flashcards cover the different types of joints, their characteristics, and examples for better understanding and retention.

Synarthroses

Immovable joints where bone surfaces are in direct contact, connected by connective tissue or hyaline cartilage.

Amphiarthroses

Slightly movable joints where bony surfaces are united by cartilage.

Diarthroses

Freely movable joints, covered with hyaline cartilage and connected by ligaments.

Synchondrosis

A temporary joint where cartilage is converted to bone; example: growth plate.

Suture

Fibrous joints where bones are connected by a thin layer of connective tissue; example: sutures of the skull.

Gomphosis

A conical process that fits into a socket; example: teeth in the jaw.

Syndesmosis

Joints where two bones are united by an interosseous ligament; example: distal tibio-fibular joint.

Symphysis

Joints where bony surfaces are connected by a fibrocartilage disc; examples: pubic symphysis and intervertebral discs.

Ginglymus

Hinge joints allowing motion in one plane; example: elbow.

Trochoid

Pivot joints that allow rotation; example: atlas rotating on dens.

Condyloid

Joints with an ovoid surface fitting into an elliptical cavity; examples: TMJ and knee joint.

Saddle Joint

Concavo-convex opposing surfaces; example: carpo-metacarpal joint of the thumb.

Spheroidal Joint

Ball and socket joints where a globular head fits into a socket; examples: femur into acetabulum.

Gliding Joint

Arthrodial joints where two planar surfaces articulate; example: vertebrae articulating with each other.