Types of Joints and Movements

This flashcard set covers fundamental vocabulary related to joints and their movements, including types, classifications, and specific terms describing joint mechanics and pathologies.

Joint

A functional connection between bones that binds parts of the skeletal system and permits movement.

Fibrous Joint

A joint held together by dense connective tissue.

Cartilaginous Joint

A joint connected by cartilage.

Synovial Joint

A joint characterized by a complex structure, allowing for the widest range of movement.

Syndesmosis

A type of fibrous joint where bones are bound by a sheet of dense connective tissue.

Suture

A fibrous joint with thin connective tissue connecting bones in the skull.

Gomphosis

A fibrous joint where a cone-shaped bony process fits into a socket, such as a tooth in its socket.

Synarthrotic Joint

A joint that is immovable.

Amphiarthrotic Joint

A joint that is slightly movable.

Diarthrotic Joint

A freely movable joint.

Synovial Fluid

A lubricating fluid secreted by the synovial membrane in synovial joints.

Meniscus

A crescent-shaped cartilage found in some synovial joints that helps absorb shock.

Bursa

A fluid-filled sac that reduces friction between moving structures in a joint.

Flexion

Bending of parts at a joint.

Extension

Straightening of parts at a joint.

Hyperextension

Extension of a joint beyond its normal anatomical position.

Abduction

Movement of a body part away from the midline.

Adduction

Movement of a body part toward the midline.

Dorsiflexion

Ankle movement that points the toes upward.

Plantar flexion

Ankle movement that points the toes downward.

Circumduction

Movement of a body part in a circular path.

Elevation

Raising a body part.

Depression

Lowering a body part.

Arthritis

Inflammation of a joint causing pain and swelling.

Osteoarthritis

A degenerative type of arthritis commonly associated with aging.