Classification and Types of Joints

Articulations

Connections between bones classified by structure or function.

Fibrous Joints

Immovable joints connected by dense connective tissue.

Cartilaginous Joints

Joints connected by cartilage, allowing limited movement.

Synovial Joints

Freely movable joints surrounded by a joint capsule.

Synarthrodial Joints

Immovable joints, such as sutures in the cranium.

Amphiarthrodial Joints

Slightly movable joints, allowing limited motion.

Diarthrodial Joints

Freely movable joints, also known as synovial joints.

Syndesmosis

Joint held together by strong ligaments, e.g., distal tibiofibular.

Symphysis

Joint separated by fibrocartilage, e.g., pubic symphysis.

Synchondrosis

Joint separated by hyaline cartilage, e.g., costochondral joints.

Hinge Joints

Uniaxial joints allowing flexion and extension, e.g., elbow.

Pivot Joints

Uniaxial joints allowing rotation, e.g., radioulnar joint.

Condyloid Joints

Biaxial joints allowing some movement, e.g., knee.

Ellipsoidal Joints

Biaxial joints allowing flexion/extension and adduction/abduction.

Saddle Joints

Biaxial joints allowing opposition, e.g., thumb.

Ball-and-Socket Joints

Triaxial joints allowing all movements, e.g., shoulder.

Gliding Joints

Joints allowing translation between flat surfaces.