The hip is an extremely stable joint because it has
(a) A complete bony socket
(b) A strong joint capsule
(c) Supporting ligaments
(d) All of these

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the anatomy of the hip joint. The hip joint is a ball-and-socket joint formed by the head of the femur (thigh bone) fitting into the acetabulum of the pelvis.
2. Step 2: Recognize that the acetabulum is a deep, cup-shaped bony socket, which provides a stable articulation for the femoral head, contributing to joint stability.
3. Step 3: Consider the role of the joint capsule, which is a strong fibrous tissue surrounding the hip joint, helping to hold the bones together and limit excessive movement.
4. Step 4: Identify the supporting ligaments around the hip joint, such as the iliofemoral, pubofemoral, and ischiofemoral ligaments, which reinforce the joint capsule and add further stability.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the hip joint's stability is due to the combination of a complete bony socket, a strong joint capsule, and supporting ligaments, meaning the correct answer is the option that includes all these features.

Key Concepts

Anatomy of the Hip Joint

The hip joint is a ball-and-socket joint where the head of the femur fits into the acetabulum of the pelvis, forming a deep, complete bony socket that provides inherent stability and allows a wide range of motion.

Joint Capsule of the Hip

The hip joint is surrounded by a strong, fibrous joint capsule that encloses the joint, maintaining stability by limiting excessive movement and protecting the joint from dislocation.

Supporting Ligaments of the Hip

Several strong ligaments, such as the iliofemoral, pubofemoral, and ischiofemoral ligaments, reinforce the hip joint capsule, providing additional stability and preventing hyperextension or abnormal movements.