Intro to Anatomy

Question 1

Describe a pivot joint, i.e. how many axes, type of movements allowed, and give examples.

Answer 1

Uniaxial. Permits rotation around a central axis. Examples are the median atlanto-axial joint (between C1 and C2 vertebrae), and the distal radioulnar joint.

Question 2

Describe a plane joint, i.e. how many axes, type of movements allowed, and give examples.

Answer 2

Uniaxial. Allows only gliding movement. Example is the acromioclavicular joint between the acromion of the scapula and the clavicle.

Question 3

Describe a hinge joint, i.e. how many axes, type of movements allowed, and give examples.

Answer 3

Uniaxial. Allows only flexion and extension. Examples are the elbow joint, knee joint, and ankle joint.

Question 4

Describe a saddle joint, i.e. how many axes, type of movements allowed, and give examples.

Answer 4

Biaxial, allows movement in two different planes (sagittal and frontal). Permits abduction, adduction, flexion, extension, and therefore, circumduction. An example is the 1st CMC joint.

Question 5

Describe a condyloid joint, i.e. how many axes, type of movements allowed, and give examples.

Answer 5

Biaxial. Permits flexion, extension, abduction, adduction, and therefore, circumduction (though limited). However, movement in the sagittal plane is usually freer than in the other. An example is the MCP (knuckle) joints.

Question 6

Describe a ball and socket joint, i.e. how many axes, type of movements allowed, and give examples.

Answer 6

Multiaxial. Permits flexion, extension, abduction, adduction, medial and lateral rotation, and circumduction. Examples are the hip joints, and the shoulder joints.