Classification of Joints

These flashcards cover the classification of joints, their characteristics, movements associated with them, and important anatomical considerations.

Articulations

The general structure of joints in the body where two or more bones meet.

Fibrous Joint

A type of joint where bones are connected by dense connective tissue; it allows little to no movement.

Gomphosis

A type of fibrous joint where a conical process fits into a socket (e.g., teeth in the jaw).

Suture

A fibrous joint characterized by a thin layer of dense connective tissue connecting bones in the skull; it allows minimal movement.

Syndesmosis

A fibrous joint where bones are connected by a ligament or an interosseous membrane, allowing slight movement.

Cartilaginous Joint

A joint where bones are united by cartilage, providing more movement than a fibrous joint but less than a synovial joint.

Synchondrosis

A type of cartilaginous joint where bones are joined by hyaline cartilage, allowing for temporary growth during development.

Symphysis

A cartilaginous joint where bones are joined by fibrocartilage, providing slight movement and cushioning.

Synovial Joint

A joint characterized by a fluid-filled joint cavity, allowing for a wide range of motion.

Hinge Joint

A synovial joint that allows movement primarily in one plane, like a door hinge (e.g., elbow or knee).

Plane Joint

A synovial joint allowing gliding movements between flat or slightly curved surfaces (e.g., intercarpal joints).

Pivot Joint

A synovial joint allowing rotational movement around a single axis (e.g., atlantoaxial joint in the neck).

Condylar Joint

A synovial joint allowing movement in two planes, with an oval articulating surface fitting into a concave surface (e.g., wrist joint).

Saddle Joint

A synovial joint resembling a saddle; allows movement in two planes (e.g., carpometacarpal joint of the thumb).

Ball and Socket Joint

A synovial joint allowing rotational movement and movement in multiple planes (e.g., shoulder and hip joints).

Extension

The movement that increases the angle between body parts, typically straightening a limb.

Flexion

The movement that decreases the angle between body parts, typically bending a limb.

Pronation

A rotational movement that turns the palm downwards or the sole of the foot inwards.

Supination

A rotational movement that turns the palm upwards or the sole of the foot outwards.

Biomechanics

The study of the mechanical laws relating to the movement or structure of living organisms.

Lever

A rigid bar that rotates around a pivot point (fulcrum) to help lift or move an object.

Unhappy Triad

A common knee injury consisting of tears to the ACL, MCL, and the medial meniscus.

Arthritis

A general term describing inflammation of the joints, which can result in pain and restricted movement.