Joint Structure and Function

Joint Structure and Function

1. Joints

   • Articulation
     • Where bones meet
     • Hold bone together
     • Various degrees of skeletal movement

2. Joint Classification

   • Structural Classification
     • Fibrous
     • Cartilaginous
     • Synovial
   • Functional Classification
     • Synarthrosis (joined together)
     • Amphiarthrosis (around)
     • Diarthrosis (two, free)

3. Fibrous Joints

   • Types of Fibrous Joints
     • Sutures (seam)
       • Thin layer of dense fibrous connective tissue
       • Only unites bones of the skull
       • Their interlocking edges add strength, thus reducing fractures
       • Immovable (synarthroses)
     • Syndesmosis (fastening)
       • Articulating bones are united either by a ligament or interosseous membrane
       • Anterior tibiofibular ligament
     • Gomphoses

4. Cartilaginous Joints