Joints - Tutorial 2

Question 1

Name the three types of joints

Answer 1

• Fibrous joint
• Cartilaginous joint
• Synovial joint

Question 2

Give an example of each type of joint

Answer 2

• Fibrous - structures between cranium bones
• Cartilaginous - intervertebral discs, pubic symphysis
• Synovial joint - ball and socket (shoulder joint), hinge joint (knee joint)

Question 3

State four functions of synovial fluid

Answer 3

• It reduces friction between the cartilages by lubricating the joint. (so it prevents heat production and wearing away of joint)
• Absorbs shock
• Supplies the cartilage with O2 and nutrients removes CO2 and other wastes
• Contains phagocytes that remove microbes and debris

Question 4

Describe two homeostatic imbalances that occur at synovial joints

Answer 4

Sprains - twisting of joint that stretches or tears ligaments

Dislocations - displacement of a bone from joint

Question 5

Explain why the hip joint is more stable than the shoulder joint

Answer 5

• Hip joint forms between the acetabulum of the pelvis and the head of the femur - extremely stable due to deep socket (acetabulum) and strong capsule/accessory ligaments and muscles
• The shoulder joint forms between the glenoid cavity of the scapula and the head of the humerus, glenoid cavity is very shallow and contributes to dislocation of the joint.

Question 6

Describe three age related changes that occur with joints

Answer 6

• Decreased production of synovial fluid
• Thinning of the articular cartilage resulting in osteoarthritis
• Loss of ligament length and flexibility

Question 7

Describe the specific changes that occur with osteoarthritis

Answer 7

Osteoarthritis - deterioration of articular cartilage and non - inflammatory and primarily affects weight-bearing joints

Question 8

Explain the difference between osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis

Answer 8

Rheumatoid Arthritis - autoimmune disorder, cartilage damaged by immune system, inflammation, swelling and pain and eventual fusion of joint

Osteoarthritis - deterioration of articular cartilage and non - inflammatory and primarily affects weight-bearing joints