Joint Classification

Question 1

Joint

Answer 1

A joint is the location at which two or more bones connect. They are constructed to allow movement (except for skull bones) and provide mechanical support, and are classified structurally and functionally

Question 2

Fibrous Joints

Answer 2

Bones are held together by collagenous fibres, with NO movement permitted. Examples: the bones of the skull and the teeth

Question 3

Cartilaginous Joints

Answer 3

Bones are held together by cartilage, with some limited movement. Examples: the cartilage between the vertebrae, the cartilage connecting the ribs to the sternum, the cartilage connecting the pubic bones (symphysis pubis)

Question 4

Synovial Joints

Answer 4

Bones are separated by a lubricated joint cavity where most major movements take place. Examples: hips, knees, fingers, wrists, etc.

Question 5

Building a Synovial Joint

Answer 5

Step 1: Start with two bones
Step 2: Apply cartilage padding
Step 3: Apply Synovial Membrane (deep layer of fibrous capsule)
Step 4: Apply a tough dense layer of ligament around the joint
Step 5: Apply Accessory Ligaments for additional support

Question 6

Ligaments

Answer 6

The fibrous connective tissues that help hold bone to bone

Question 7

Tendons

Answer 7

The fibrous connective tissues that connect the muscle to the bone

Question 8

Bursae

Answer 8

Synovial fluid-filled sacks designed to provide padding between tissues of the body (e.g. for tendons that move across bone)

Question 9

Articular Cartilage

Answer 9

The smooth, glass-like tissue that covers the ends of bones where they come together to form synovial joints