Skip to main content
Back

Anatomy & Physiology: Joints and Joint Function

Control buttons has been changed to "navigation" mode.
1/27
  • Define a joint

    A joint is the connection between two or more bones that allows for varying degrees of movement.
  • What are synarthroses joints?

    Synarthroses are immovable joints where bones are tightly connected, such as sutures in the skull.
  • What are amphiarthroses joints?

    Amphiarthroses are slightly movable joints, like the pubic symphysis or intervertebral discs.
  • What are diarthroses joints?

    Diarthroses are freely movable joints, also called synovial joints, such as the knee or shoulder.
  • Explain the relationship between joint mobility and stability

    There is an inverse relationship: increased mobility usually means decreased stability, and vice versa.
  • List factors influencing joint stability

    Joint stability depends on ligament strength, muscle tone, joint capsule integrity, and the shape of articulating surfaces.
  • Classify joints structurally

    Joints are classified as fibrous, cartilaginous, or synovial based on the type of connective tissue binding bones.
  • Classify joints functionally

    Functionally, joints are synarthroses (immovable), amphiarthroses (slightly movable), or diarthroses (freely movable).
  • Describe fibrous joints and give examples

    Fibrous joints are connected by dense connective tissue; examples include sutures of the skull and the syndesmosis between tibia and fibula.
  • Describe cartilaginous joints and give examples

    Cartilaginous joints are connected by cartilage; examples include synchondroses like the epiphyseal plate and symphyses like the pubic symphysis.
  • Describe structural characteristics of synovial joints

    Synovial joints have a joint cavity, articular cartilage, a synovial membrane, and are enclosed by a fibrous capsule.
  • What is the function of menisci in synovial joints?

    Menisci are fibrocartilage pads that improve fit between bones, absorb shock, and stabilize the joint.
  • What are bursae and their function?

    Bursae are fluid-filled sacs that reduce friction between tendons, ligaments, and bones.
  • What are tendon sheaths?

    Tendon sheaths are tubular bursae that wrap around tendons to reduce friction during movement.
  • List the six types of synovial joints

    The six types are plane, hinge, pivot, condyloid, saddle, and ball-and-socket joints.
  • Example and movement of plane joints

    Plane joints allow gliding movements; example: intercarpal joints of the wrist.
  • Example and movement of hinge joints

    Hinge joints allow flexion and extension; example: elbow and knee joints.
  • Example and movement of pivot joints

    Pivot joints allow rotational movement; example: atlantoaxial joint between C1 and C2 vertebrae.
  • Example and movement of condyloid joints

    Condyloid joints allow movement in two planes; example: wrist joint between radius and carpal bones.
  • Example and movement of saddle joints

    Saddle joints allow biaxial movement; example: carpometacarpal joint of the thumb.
  • Example and movement of ball-and-socket joints

    Ball-and-socket joints allow movement in all planes; example: shoulder and hip joints.
  • Name common body movements at joints

    Common movements include flexion, extension, abduction, adduction, rotation, and circumduction.
  • Define the suffix –itis

    The suffix –itis means inflammation of a tissue or structure.
  • Describe tendinitis

    Tendinitis is inflammation of a tendon, often caused by overuse or injury.
  • Describe bursitis

    Bursitis is inflammation of a bursa, causing pain and swelling near joints.
  • Describe arthritis

    Arthritis is inflammation of a joint, leading to pain, swelling, and reduced mobility.
  • Compare osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis

    Osteoarthritis is caused by wear and tear of cartilage; rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease attacking joint tissues.