Joints: Definition, Anatomy, Movement, Types, Function

A joint, also referred to as an articulation, is the connection between two or more bones in the body which allows movement and provides stability. In anatomy, a definition of a joint can include its role in facilitating motion and supporting the skeletal system. To define a joint, it is important to understand its structural and functional aspects. Joints are classified based on structure and function whether they are fibrous, cartilaginous, or synovial and whether they are immovable, slightly movable, or freely movable. Asking the question "What is a joint?" includes its vital role in providing mobility as well as maintaining the posture of the body. This is the topic of the Chapter Locomotion and Movement from Biology.

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This Story also Contains

1. What are Joints?
2. Classification of Joints
3. Structural Classification
4. Functional Classification of Joints
5. Advantages of Knowing Joints

What are Joints?

Joints are primary parts of the human body that enable any kind of movement and ensure stability. They connect the bones, making every living creature capable of moving. From gestures to challenging athletic moves, the types and functions of joints are highly relevant and must be learned while understanding human anatomy and physiology.

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Classification of Joints

The classification of joints is given below in a detailed approach:

Structural Classification

Joints are structurally classified based on the material that holds the bones together.

Fibrous Joints

These joints are immovable and possess fibrous connective tissue that tightly connects bones. They are located at places in the body where more stability and support are needed, such as in the skull.

Cartilaginous Joints

Cartilaginous joints are joined by cartilage and allow limited movement. They include synchondroses, which are temporary and thus are a type of epiphyseal growth plate, and symphyses, which are permanent and connect bones in the pelvic girdle, such as the pubic symphysis.

Synovial Joints

Synovial joints have a relatively large range of motion compared to other forms of joints. Synovial joints, by their very nature, contain an enclosed cavity filled with synovial fluid. In such joints, one finds a wide degree of movement about the limbs and spine.

Functional Classification of Joints

Functional classification is focused on the degree and type of movements that are permitted. These include

Ball and Socket Joints

The Ball and Socket joints have the greatest range of motion, including rotation movements, which involve remodelling. Examples include the hip and shoulder joints.

Pivot Joints

Pivot joints are those that permit rotational motion around a central axis. An example is the joint between the atlas and axis vertebrae in the neck.

Hinge Joints

Hinge joints move in one plane, similar to the action of a door hinge. Examples are the elbow and knee joints.

Saddle Joints

Saddle joints are very flexible, for they allow movement in two planes. The wrist joint at the base of the thumb is an example of a saddle joint.

Condyloid Joints

The movement that is possible in condyloid joints includes flexion, extension, abduction, and adduction in two planes. Examples are the radiocarpal and metacarpophalangeal joints.

Gliding Joints

Gliding joints allow flat or slightly curved bones to slide against or alongside one another. They are articulated in the wrists and ankles.

Classification of Joints

Advantages of Knowing Joints

Understanding the types and functions of joints is necessary for many aspects connected to medicine, sports science, and rehabilitation. It leads to the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the joints, designs ergonomic tools and methods, and is effective in athletic performance.

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