Joint Types

Question 1

What are synovial joints crucial for in sport and exercise?

Answer 1

Allow free movement

Synovial joints have common features but are designed differently to allow a range of motion on one or more planes.

Question 2

List the common features of a synovial joint.

Answer 2

• Ligament
• Synovial fluid
• Joint capsule
• Articular cartilage

These features contribute to the function and stability of synovial joints.

Question 3

What is the function of a ligament?

Answer 3

Connects bone to bone and stabilises joints during movement

Ligaments are tough bands of slightly elastic connective tissue.

Question 4

What does synovial fluid do?

Answer 4

Reduces friction and nourishes articular cartilage

It is a lubricating liquid contained within the joint cavity.

Question 5

What is the role of articular cartilage?

Answer 5

Smooth tissue covering the surface of articulating bones

It absorbs shock and allows friction-free movement.

Question 6

What is a joint?

Answer 6

An area of the body where two or more bones articulate to create human movement

Joints are essential for mobility and flexibility.

Question 7

True or false: A joint capsule encloses and strengthens the joint while secreting synovial fluid.

Answer 7

TRUE

The joint capsule is a fibrous sac with an inner synovial membrane.

Question 8

What is the function of a bursa?

Answer 8

Reduces friction between tendons and bones

A bursa is a closed, fluid-filled sac found where tendons rub over bones.

Question 9

Hinge joint

Answer 9

A cylindrical bone articulates with a trough-shaped bone held tightly by ligaments which limit sideways movement. Motion restricted to one plane, e.g. elbow, knee and ankle joints.

Question 10

Condyloid joint

Answer 10

Similar to a ball and socket joint with flatter bone surfaces to allow motion in two planes, e.g. the wrist joint.

Question 11

Pivot joint

Answer 11

A rounded bone articulates with a ring-shaped bone which restricts motion to one plane, e.g. the radio-ulnar joint.

Question 12

Gliding joint

Answer 12

Almost flat, similar-sized bones articulate with limited motion in three planes, e.g. the spine.

Question 13

Ball and socket joint

Answer 13

A ball-shaped head articulates with a cup-shaped socket to give a large range of motion in all three planes, e.g. hip and shoulder joints.