Joints and Classification Quiz

Types of Joints and Their Classification

• Joints can be classified by movement: immovable, slightly movable, and freely movable (diarthrosis).
• Synovial joints possess a synovial cavity that separates the articulating bones, allowing for extensive movement.

Structure and Function of Synovial Joints

• Articular cartilage provides a smooth, lubricated surface for joint movement and absorbs shock.
• The inner layer of the articular capsule, known as the synovial membrane, secretes synovial fluid.
• Synovial fluid functions to lubricate joints, nourish articular cartilage, and reduce friction during movement.
• The fibrous capsule, composed of dense irregular connective tissue, helps to stabilize the joint and protects the underlying structures.

Features of Synovial Joints

• Menisci, structures within some diarthrosis joints, divide the articular cavity into compartments and enhance joint stability.
• Bursae act as cushions between bones and tendons and help reduce friction in areas of high movement.
• Tendon sheaths are specialized structures that wrap around tendons, providing protection and reducing friction during movement.

Joint Innervation and Vascularization

• Joints are innervated by nerves that convey pain, proprioception, and reflexes.
• They also receive a rich blood supply, known as vascularization, which supports their health and function.

Ligaments and Joint Stability

• Ligaments connect bones to one another and provide stability to joints by preventing excessive movement.
• Bursitis is inflammation of a bursa, often causing pain and restricting movement.

Tissue Lining

• The synovial cavity in synovial joints is lined by synovial tissue, facilitating the secretion of synovial fluid.