Module 6 : Anatomy of the Joints
Module 6 : Anatomy of the Joints In this module you will learn: About the classification of joints What synovial joints are and how they work Where the hinge joints are located and their functions Examples of gliding joints and how they work About the saddle joint and its function 6.1 Introduction The body has a need for strength and movement, which is why we are rigid. If our bodies were not made this way, then movement would be impossible. We are designed to grow with bones, tendons, ligaments, and joints that all play a part in natural movements known as articulations – these strong connections join up bones, teeth, and cartilage. Each joint in our body makes these links possible and each joint performs a specific job – many of them differ in shape and structure, but all control a range of motion between the body parts that they connect. 6.2 Classifying Joints Joints that do not allow movement are known as synarthrosis joints. Examples of synarthroses are sutures of the skull, and the gomphoses which connect our teeth to the skull. Amphiarthrosis joints allow a small range of movement, an example of this is your intervertebral discs attached to the spine. Another example is the pubic symphysis in your hip region. The freely moving joints are classified as diarthrosis joints. These have a higher range of motion than any other type of joint, they include knees, elbows, shoulders, and wrists. Joints can also be classified depending on the kind of material each one is structurally made up of. A fibrous joint is made up of tough collagen fiber, examples of this are previously mentioned sutures of the skull or the syndesmosis joint, which holds the ulna and radius of your forearm in place.
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