Joints
Joints are connections between two or more bones. They allow movement, provide support, and facilitate the transfer of forces. There are three main types of joints:
1. Fibrous Joints
- Bones are held together by fibrous connective tissue, creating a strong and inflexible joint.
- Examples: Sutures (skull) and syndesmosis (tibia and fibula)
2. Cartilaginous Joints
- Bones are connected by cartilage, which allows for limited movement.
- Types:
- Synchondrosis: Cartilage connects developing bones (e.g., growth plate)
- Symphysis: Cartilage connects bones in areas subject to compression (e.g., intervertebral discs)
3. Synovial Joints
- Most common type of joint
- Bones are separated by a fluid-filled joint cavity lined with synovial membrane.
- Features:
- Articular Cartilage: Smooths the bone ends for easy movement.
- Joint Capsule: A fibrous sac that encloses the joint cavity.
- Synovial Fluid: Lubricates the joint and provides nutrients to the cartilage.
- Ligaments: Tough bands of tissue that connect bones at joint margins and provide stability.
Types of Synovial Joints
Based on the shape of the articular surfaces and the types of movement they allow:
- Hinge Joint: Uniaxial movement (flexion and extension), e.g., knee joint
- Pivot Joint: Uniaxial rotation, e.g., atlantoaxial joint
- Ball-and-Socket Joint: Multiaxial movement (flexion, extension, abduction, adduction, rotation), e.g., hip joint
- Saddle Joint: Biaxial movement (in saddle-shaped surfaces), e.g., thumb joint
- Condyloid Joint: Biaxial movement (in oval-shaped surfaces), e.g., wrist joint
Functions of Joints
- Movement: Facilitate a wide range of movements, including flexion, extension, rotation, and gliding.
- Support: Provide structural support to the body and stabilize skeletal structures.
- Load-Bearing: Transmit forces between bones and absorb shock.
- Nutrition: Synovial fluid nourishes the articular cartilage, which lacks blood supply.