Joints in the Body, 3 classification and their functions

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Joints in the Body and their functions

Joints, also known as articular surfaces, are connections between bones in the human body. Through these joints, we have a complete functional skeletal system. Joints are built in such a way that they permit certain types and degrees of movement.

The joints in the elbow, knee and shoulder are almost without friction as they are self-lubricating, capable of withstanding heavy loads and compression while still carrying out Smooth and exact movements.
Joints such as Sutures which are found in the skull, allow for little movement so as to protect the sense organs and the brain as well.

Classification of Joints

Joints are classified based on their structures and functions.

Based on Structures

Classification of Joints based on structure is determined by how bones link.
Examples of these joints are:

Cartilaginous Joints

These are joints that link bones with cartilage. cartilaginous joints are of two types, namely:
(1)A symphysis consists of a compressible fibrocartilaginous pad that links two bones. This type of joint allows for some movement. The vertebrae, which are connected by intervertebral discs, and hip bones which are connected by the pubic symphysis are two examples of symphyses.

(2)A synchrondosis is an immovable cartilaginous joint. One example is the joint between the first pair of ribs and the sternum.

Synovial Joints

The existence of the articular capsule between two connected bones is what characterizes synovial joints. A coating or articular cartilage shields the facets of bones at synovial joints. The reinforcements and supports usually received by the synovial joint are always provided by surrounding ligaments which limits movements to avoid injury.

(1)Hinge joints move on one axis. These joints allow for extension and flexure. Major hinge joints include the elbow and finger joints.

(2)Gliding joints move against each other on a single plane. Major gliding joints include the intervertebral joints and the bones of the wrists and ankles.

(3) A pivot joint provides rotation. The atlas and axis form a pivot joint that allows for the rotation of the head, at the top of the spine,

(4) The ball-and-socket joint is a freely moving joint that can rotate on any axis. The hip and shoulder joints are examples of ball and socket joints.

(5) A saddle joint allows for flexion, extension, and other movements, but no rotation. In the hand, the thumb’s saddle joint (between the first metacarpal and the trapezium) lets the thumb cross over the palm, making it opposable.

(6) A condyloid joint allows for circular flexure, extension, and motion. The wrist joint between the radius and the carpal bones is an example of a condyloid joint.

Fibrous Joint

Between the connections of fibrous joints is a thick connective tissue, which explains why most fibrous joints are synarthroses (immovable). Fibrous joints are of three types, they include:
(1) Sutures: These immovable joints articulate with the skull bones. These joints have saw-toothed edges that lock together with fibres of connective tissue.

(2) A syndesmosis is a joint in which a ligament connects two bones, allowing for little movement (amphiarthroses). The distal joint between the tibia and fibula is an example of a syndesmosis.
(3)The fibrous articulations between the mandible or maxilla and the teeth are called gomphosis and are also immovable.

Based on Function

The Classification of Joints based on their functions is determined by the degree of movement between connecting bones.
Synarthrosis – allows for little or no movement. Most synarthrosis joints are fibrous joints (e.g., skull sutures).
Amphiarthrosis – allows for slight movement. Amphiarthrosis joints are mostly cartilaginous joints (e.g., intervertebral discs).

Based on Anatomy

Joints can also be classified based on their anatomy. Joints are subdivided into compound and simple according to Classification based on their anatomy, depending on the number of bones involved, and complex and combination joints.

Compound joint: three or more articulation surfaces (e.g. radiocarpal joint)
Simple joint: two articulation surfaces (e.g. shoulder joint, hip joint).
Complex joint: two or more articulation surfaces and an articular disc or meniscus (e.g. knee joint).

Clinical Importance

In clinical science, Arthropathy is known as a joint disorder, but when it there is inflammation of more than one joint, it is termed Arthritis.

Arthropathies are called polyarticular (multiarticular) when involving many joints and monoarticular when involving only a single joint. Arthritis causes many disabilities experienced by people over 55. Arthritis is of various forms, but the most common form of Arthritis is Osteoarthritis, which results from ageing or deterioration of articular cartilage.

It is always advisable to exercise regularly, and swimming is a very good way of exercising the joint with less damage.

IGBAJI U.C.
IGBAJI U.C.https://igbajiugabi.com
Igbaji Ugabi Chinwendu, from Cross River State, Nigeria. As a Business Educator, he is profoundly interested in teaching and managing business. Started blogging 2010 and officially 2013. He holds the esteemed positions of Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Director at Freemanbiz Communication and Writers King LTD, demonstrating his leadership and expertise in the field.

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