Joints
http://www.argosymedical.com/flash/synovial_joints/landing.html
I). Definition
Articulations:
Joints are the weakest part of the skeleton.
II). Classification
A). Functional:
B). Structure:
III) Types of Joints
A). Fibrous:
The amount of movement is based on the length of the tissue fibers.
1). Sutures
2). Syndesmoses
Limited movement:
Considerable movement:
3). Gomphoses
B). Cartilaginous Joints
| Bones are united by cartilage and there is no cavity between the bones. |
1). Synchondrosis
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| hyaline cartilage unites the bones at the junction of cartilage |
2). Symphyses
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| Cartilage fuses into a pad of fibrocartilage that is compressible and allows some movement. |
C). Synovial Joints
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| Articulating bones are separated by a fluid-containing joint cavity. |
IV). Structure of Synovial Joints
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A). Articular Cartilage
B). Synovial (joint) cavity
C). Articular Capsule
D). Synovial Fluid.
E). Reinforcing Ligaments
F). Fatty Pads or Articular Discs
G). Bursae
| Flattened sacs that contain synovial fluid. | |
| Functions to reduce friction. |
H). Tendon Sheath
| A bursa that wraps around a tendon that is subject to friction. |
V). Factors Influencing Joint Stability
A). The shape of articular surfaces.
B). Ligaments
C). Muscle Tone
VI). Types of Synovial Joints
A). Plane Joints
| Flat articular surfaces |
B). Hinge Joints
| Cylindrical projections (condyles) fit into concave shapes |
C). Pivot Joints
| The rounded end of one bone fits into the sleeve of bone or ligaments |
D). Condyloid or Ellipsoidal Joints
| The oval surface of one bone fits into the depression of another bone |
E). Saddle Joints
| both concave and convex surfaces that allow for more movement |
F). Ball-and-Socket Joints
| Spherical head of bone articulates into a cup like surface of another. |
VII). Examples of Joints
A). Knees Joint
B). Hip Joint
C). Shoulder Joint
D). Elbow Joint