Saddle Joints

Question 1

What are saddle joints?

Answer 1

• saddle shaped bi-axial joints that allow movement in the Sagittal & frontal plane

Question 2

What are the movements of saddle joints?

Answer 2

• flexion/extension
• adduction/abduction

Question 3

What is a type of saddle joint?

Answer 3

• carpometacarpal joint (thumb)

Question 4

What is the classification of the carpometacarpal joint?

Answer 4

• structural = synovial
• functional = diarthrosis

Question 5

What are the 2 bones involved with the carpometacarpal joint?

Answer 5

• trapezium
• trapezoid

Question 6

What are the 4 muscles acting on the carpometacarpal joint?

Answer 6

• flexor pollicis brevis
• abductor/adductor pollicis brevis
• Opponens pollicis

Question 7

What is a functional movement of the carpometacarpal joint?

Answer 7

• opposition of the thumb
• the positioning of the thumb pad is diametrically opposite to the distal pad of the middle finger
• it is like this so we can grasp small or large objects

Question 8

What are clinical findings of the carpometacarpal joint?

Answer 8

• can suffer from trigger thumb, arthritis, tendinitis, & carpal tunnel syndrome

Question 9

What is trigger thumb?

Answer 9

• a condition that affects the flexors of the thumb leading to difficulty in movement
• it is characterized by a catching or locking sensation when attempting to straighten or bend the thumb
• can be caused by repetitive thumb movements like gripping/grasping of things

Question 10

What is carpal tunnel syndrome?

Answer 10

• a condition that affects the hand & wrist which causes pain, numbness, tingling, & weakness
• it occurs when the median nerve becomes compressed or squeezed as it passes through the carpal tunnel passageway
• caused by repetitive hand movements or wrist alignment issues or injuries