Synovial Joint Classification and Characteristics

Question 1

Gliding

Answer 1

The articular surfaces are flat. Gliding or slipping movements only.
Eg: Intercarpal joints between the small bones of the wrist or carpal bones)

Question 2

Hinge

Answer 2

A rounded portion of one bone fits into the depression of another bone to give the appearance of a hinge.
Permits flexion and extension movements only.
Eg: the elbow during flexion and extension movements such as the bicep curl

Question 3

Pivot

Answer 3

The rounded end of one bone extends into the ‘sleeve’ formed by another bone or a ligament.
The rotation of a bone around its long axis is the only movement possible.
Eg: The atlas and axis (C1 and C2) during rotation of the head.

Question 4

Condyloid (ellipsoid)

Answer 4

The oval surface of one bone fits into the hollow or depression of another bone. Both surfaces are oval.
Permits flexion/extension, abduction/adduction, and circumduction. These are called angular movements.
Eg: The wrist joint where the radius articulates with the carpal bones.

Question 5

Saddle

Answer 5

Each of the articulating bones have both elevated and depressed aspects (concave and convex) that give the appearace of a saddle.
Permits greater mobility in angular movements but does not allow rotation.
Eg: The base of the thumb where the metacarpals articulate with the carpals (e.g. twiddling your thumbs).

Question 6

Ball and Socket (spheroid):

Answer 6

The round head of one bone fits into the ‘cup-like’ depression of the other bone.
Permits all types of movements including flexion or extension, abduction or adduction, and rotation.
Eg: The shoulder and hip joint are great examples of the high mobility characterized by the ball and socket joint.