Arthrology ~ Synovial Joint Features

Question 1

List the 8 associated structures of synovial joints

Answer 1

1. Ligament
2. Meniscus/articular disc
3. Labrum
4. Fat pads
5. Bursa
6. Sensory nerves
7. Blood vessels
8. Tendons (sometimes tendons travel through a joint)

Question 2

Describe Ligament in more detail (including structure and function)

Answer 2

Structure: 
- DRCTP connecting bone to bone 
- collagen fibres aligned to resist tensile forces 
Function: 
- resist abnormal or excessive movement 
- do not interfere with normal movement

Question 3

Describe Menisci/articular discs in more detail

Answer 3

• fibrocartilage pads
• improve congruency of articular surfaces
• stress distribution

Question 4

Describe Labrum in more detail

Answer 4

• fibrocartilage rim attached to the edge of a socket

- increase joint contact area but are deformable

Question 5

Describe fat pads in more detail

Answer 5

• soft, deformable space fillers as the joint moves and the joint cavity changes shape
• distribute stress

Question 6

Describe Bursae in more detail

Answer 6

• synovial membrane sacs either separate or continuous with the joint
• located at sites of friction