Difference between revisions of "Joints - Anatomy & Physiology"
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*'''Synarthroses''' form joints that are relatively rigid | *'''Synarthroses''' form joints that are relatively rigid | ||
*'''Diarthroses''' form joints that are freely movable | *'''Diarthroses''' form joints that are freely movable | ||
+ | Joint Function: | ||
+ | *Absorb force of impact, transfer force via cartilage to bone | ||
+ | *Allow a variable degree of movement | ||
=='''Fibrous Joints'''== | =='''Fibrous Joints'''== |
Revision as of 08:53, 18 July 2008
Joints comprise broadly two categories:
- Synarthroses form joints that are relatively rigid
- Diarthroses form joints that are freely movable
Joint Function:
- Absorb force of impact, transfer force via cartilage to bone
- Allow a variable degree of movement
Fibrous Joints
- Most occur in the skull: known as sutures
- Key in development: allow extension of individual bones during growth
- Gradually eliminated as ossification progresses
- Syndesmoses: facing areas of two bones joined by connective tissue ligaments, very limited movement allowed
- Eg. Joints of the metacarpus in the horse
- Gomphosis: attachment of tooth to bone within its socket
Cartilaginous Joints
- Synchondroses: eg. joints between epiphyses and diaphyses of juvenile long bones, disappear on maturity
- Permanent synchondroses: the joint between the skull and hyoid
- Symphysis: articulating bones are divided by a succession of tissues, with cartilage covering the bones or the tissue between
- Eg. mandibular, pelvic, vertebral
Synovial Joints
- Articulating joints are separated by a fluid-filled joint cavity, which is bounded by a synovial membrane
- Often the synovial membrane is reinforced by a fibrous capsule and ligaments restricting joint movement
- Cartilage covers the articular surfaces
- Usually, this is Hyaline, although Fibrocartilage or fibrous tissue can substitute
Joint Pathology
For links to joint pathology, go here