Joints in Human Anatomy and Physiology

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering key terms and definitions related to joints in human anatomy and physiology.

Joints

Sites where two or more bones meet, providing mobility and structural support to the skeleton.

Fibrous Joints

Joints where bones are joined by dense fibrous connective tissue and typically do not have a joint cavity.

Sutures

Rigid interlocking joints found in the skull that allow for growth during youth and become immovable in adulthood.

Syndesmosis

A fibrous joint where bones are connected by a ligament, permitting slight movement.

Gomphosis

A peg-in-socket joint, such as a tooth anchored in its socket by a periodontal ligament.

Cartilaginous Joints

Joints united by cartilage, with no joint cavity and typically limited mobility.

Synchondroses

Cartilaginous joints united by hyaline cartilage; usually immovable.

Symphyses

Cartilaginous joints where bones are united by fibrocartilage and slightly movable.

Synovial Joints

Joints characterized by a fluid-filled joint cavity that allows for a wide range of movement.

Articular Cartilage

Hyaline cartilage that covers the ends of bones at synovial joints, preventing bone crushing.

Synovial Fluid

Vicious fluid that lubricates and nourishes articular cartilage in synovial joints.

Menisci

Fibrocartilaginous structures that improve the fit of bone ends in synovial joints.

Ligaments

Tissues that connect bones at a joint, contributing to joint stability.

Osteoarthritis

A degenerative joint disease, often called 'wear-and-tear' arthritis, prevalent with aging.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

A chronic autoimmune disease causing inflammation and damage to joints.

Gouty Arthritis

A type of arthritis caused by uric acid crystal deposition in joints, leading to inflammation.

Dislocation

An injury where bones are forced out of their normal alignment at a joint.

Sprain

An injury involving the stretching or tearing of ligaments around a joint.

Inflammation

The body's response to injury or illness, often resulting in swelling, pain, and heat.

Homeostasis

The maintenance of stable internal conditions in the body, including joint function.