What is a joint? Describe the different types of joints
Answers
Joints aka articular surface can be defined as a point where two or more bones are connected in a human skeletal system. Cartilage is a type of tissue which keeps two adjacent bones to come in contact (or articulate) with each other. 3 Types of joints are Synovial Joints, Fibrous Joints, and Cartilaginous Joints. Joints help in bringing about movements in different parts of the body. Let us see the classification of joints and anatomy of different types of joints.
Classification of Joints
Joints can be classified in different ways depending on:
The amount of mobility permitted by the joints
Type of tissue connecting the bones
Each of these types can be further subdivided. Let’s look at each classification individually.
A] The amount of mobility permitted by the joint
Types of joints
Fixed Joint or Synarthroses– The word ‘syn-‘ tells us that the bones are fused and therefore permit minimal or no movement. These joints are fibrous joints which means that the binding tissue between two bones is ‘fibrous’ in nature. Example of a fixed joint is the sutures between skull bones.
Slightly Movable Joint or Amphiarthroses– This joint permits slight mobility that is more than what is seen in a fixed joint. The binding tissue in this type of joint is cartilaginous in nature. Example of a slightly moveable joint is those found between intervertebral discs.
Freely Moveable Joint or Synovial Joints– These joints permit maximum movement between the bones involved. They are also called as ‘diarthroses’ and are further classified into 6 types depending on the kind of movements possible.