joints

What is the definition of an articulation?

The site where two or more bones come into close approximation; also called a joint.

What is the study of joints called?

Arthrology.

What are the three major classifications of joints?

Synarthrotic (fibrous), Amphiarthrotic (cartilaginous), Diarthrotic (synovial).

What type of tissue connects synarthrotic joints?

Fibrous tissue.

What is the movement of synarthrotic joints?

Immovable.

Give an example of a synarthrotic joint.

Cranial sutures.

What type of tissue connects amphiarthrotic joints?

Cartilage (cartilaginous joints).

What is the movement of amphiarthrotic joints?

Partially moveable.

Give two examples of amphiarthrotic joints.

Intervertebral joints (between vertebral bodies), Symphysis pubis.

What is another name for diarthrotic joints?

Synovial joints.

What is the movement of diarthrotic joints?

Freely moveable.

What category includes the majority of human joints?

Diarthrotic (synovial) joints.

What are the structural classifications of joints?

Fibrous, Cartilaginous, Synovial.

What are the functional classifications of joints?

Synarthrosis (no movement), Amphiarthrosis (slight movement), Diarthrosis (free movement).

What is another name for diarthrotic joints?

Synovial joints.

What is the movement capability of diarthrotic joints?

Freely movable.

What type of joint makes up the majority of human articulations?

Diarthrotic (synovial) joints.

What motion does a gliding (plane) joint permit?

Simple sliding motion; least movement. Examples: Intercarpal, intertarsal, acromioclavicular, costovertebral joints.

What motion does a pivot (trochoid) joint permit?

Rotation around a single axis. Examples: Proximal radioulnar joint, atlantoaxial joint (C1–C2).

What motion does a hinge (ginglymus) joint permit?

Flexion and extension. Examples: Elbow, interphalangeal joints, ankle.

What motions does a ball-and-socket (spheroid) joint permit?

Flexion, extension, abduction, adduction, rotation, circumduction. Examples: Shoulder, hip.

What motions does a condyloid (ellipsoid) joint permit?

Flexion, extension, abduction, adduction, circumduction (NO axial rotation). Examples: Radiocarpal joint, MCP joints (2–5).

What motions does a saddle (sellar) joint permit?

Flexion, extension, abduction, adduction, circumduction (NO rotation). Example: First carpometacarpal joint (thumb).

What motion does a bicondylar (biaxial) joint permit?

Primary motion in one direction with limited rotation. Examples: TMJ, knee.

What is the definition of arthritis?

Inflammation of a joint.

What symptoms commonly accompany arthritis?

Pain, swelling, stiffness, and deformity.

What structure is always damaged in arthritis?

Articular cartilage.

What is the most common type of arthritis?

Osteoarthritis (degenerative arthritis).

Does osteoarthritis increase with age?

Yes — incidence increases with age, but it is NOT considered a normal part of aging.

What is osteoporosis?

A condition characterized by loss of bone mass, making bones more prone to fracture.

What happens to bone remodeling in osteoporosis?

More bone is resorbed than replaced, leading to demineralization and decreased strength.

Name at least five risk factors for osteoporosis.

Female, Postmenopausal, Caucasian or Asian, Small skeletal frame, Family history of osteoporosis, Sedentary lifestyle.

Why does osteoporosis increase fracture risk?

Because demineralized bone becomes structurally weak.

What imaging finding is commonly associated with osteoporosis?

Decreased bone density (radiolucent appearance).