Joints

Question 1

Structural classifications

Answer 1

Adjacent bones are strongly anchored to each other by fibrous connective tissue or cartilage
Or adjacent bones articulate with each other in fluid-filled space (joint cavity)

Question 2

Functional classifications

Answer 2

Determined by degree of mobility between adjacent bones
Synarthrosis (immobile joint)
Amphiarthrosis (slightly moveable joint,
Diarthrosis (freely moveable joint)

Question 3

Synarthrosis

Answer 3

Immobile = strong union between articulating bones
Provide protection for internal organs

Question 4

Amphiarthrosis

Answer 4

• Limited mobility
• Provide strength for weight-bearing and stability
• E.g. pubic symphysis of pelvis and cartilaginous joint between adjacent vertebrae

Question 5

Diarthrosis

Answer 5

Freely moveable joint. Include ALL synovial joints in body. Divided into categories based on number of axes of motion provided

Question 6

Biaxial joint

Answer 6

Biaxial joint (e.g. metacarpophalangeal joint (knuckle joint) - bending and straightening of finger and spreading of fingers away and bring them together

Question 7

Multiaxial joint

Answer 7

Multiaxial joint (e.g. shoulder and hip joints - allow arm and leg to move anterior-posterior direction, medial-lateral direction and rotation of limb so anterior surface is moved toward or away from midline of body)

Question 8

Types of synovial joints

Answer 8

Pivot, ball and socket, hinge, condyloid, plane, saddle