Anatomy And Phsyiology: The Joints

Question 1

How are joints defined?

Answer 1

As regions of union between bones in the skeleton

Question 2

How are joints classified? What are these classifications (with examples)

Answer 2

By the amount of movement they allow: immovable (known as synarthroses -between the bones of the skull) slightly moveable (amphiarthroses- the bones of the front of the pelvis) and freely movable synovial (diarthroses- knees, hips, shoulder)

Question 3

How many types of joints are there?

Answer 3

6

Question 4

What is an example of a ball and socket joint and what does this allow?

Answer 4

The hip and shoulder joint where the humerus meets the scapula and clavicle (permitting free movement in all direction)

Question 5

What is an example of a hinge joint and what does this allow?

Answer 5

Elbows, knees and fingers (they allow movement through only one plane: flexing and extension)

Question 6

What is an example of a pivot joint and what movement does this allow?

Answer 6

The join of the axis and atlas vertebrae (permits only rotation in one plane. This type of joint is composed of a ring-shaped bony structure that rotates around a bony prominence.)

Question 7

What is an example of a plane (or gliding) joint and what movement does this allow?

Answer 7

The wrist and feet (the surface of the bones move a short distance over each other- back and forth or side to side)

Question 8

What is an example of a Condyloid/ellipsoidal joint?

Answer 8

The metacarpals of the hand (not the thumb)

Question 9

What is an example of a saddle joint?

Answer 9

The point where the thumb connects to the hand

Question 10

What are the six types of freely moveable joints? (Name the types of joints)

Answer 10

Ball and socket joints, hinge joints, pivot joints, gliding joints, condyloid joints, saddle joints

Question 11

What is the primary function of cartilage in a joint?

Answer 11

To absorb shock and reduce friction